Dental crowns are a standard restorative dentistry treatment we offer to patients for functional and aesthetic solutions. They are available in several materials, each with its pros and cons. Placing a tooth crown will involve two visits to the dentist. Flower Mound Family Dentistry will provide you a dental crown in Flower Mound, TX to help you get a healthier, more confident smile.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that your dentist will place over a damaged tooth. It will resemble the former tooth to restore its size, shape, and strength and improve its appearance. The crown fully encases the visible portion of the tooth after we cement it into place. The restoration is custom-created from dental impressions to fit perfectly.
When Do You Need a Dental Crown?
Dr. Gray will recommend a dental crown as a treatment in many situations. It is a versatile and effective treatment option that can extend the life of a tooth and prevent an extraction.
- Strengthen and protect a tooth after root canal therapy
- Protect a weak tooth that is broken or cracked
- Replace an old, large cavity
- Anchor a dental bridge
- Restore a single missing tooth anchored by a dental implant
- Hold a dental bridge in place
In some cases, dentists will consider dental crowns for cosmetic reasons. Using crowns as a cosmetic dentistry treatment is a cost-effective solution to improve the appearance of your smile. Since the cap covers the entire tooth, it will disguise just about any blemish including:
- Yellow teeth
- Stained teeth
- Misshaped or crooked tooth
- Teeth with gaps in between them
- Teeth that are tooth short
Materials Used in Dental Crowns
Tooth crowns can be made from various materials, each with its pros and cons. The type of material you will need depends on your oral health needs, and where your dentist is placing the crown in your mouth. We will also consider your cosmetic goals and budget. We offer the following types of dental crowns:
Metal crowns: These are durable and long-lasting but are more noticeable due to their color.
Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns: These offer a more natural look but may lead to more wear to the opposing teeth.
All-resin crowns: These are less expensive but wear down and are more prone to fractures.
All-ceramic or all-porcelain crowns: These provide the best natural color and are suitable for people with metal allergies.
The Dental Crown Procedure
The dental crown procedure generally involves two visits to our Flower Mound, Texas dental office. During your first appointment, your dentist will prepare the tooth. We will first numb the area for your comfort, and then reduce the size of the tooth to create room for the cap.
Once your tooth is ready, we will take several dental impressions. We will send one to a dental lab where they will create your custom tooth crown. We will use a mold of your tooth to make a temporary dental crown. You will wear this until your permanent one is ready.
In about 2-3 weeks, you will return to our office, where we will set your permanent dental crown. Our dentist will remove the temporary crown and clean your tooth in preparation for the final crown. Then, they will cement the permanent dental crown to the tooth.
Aftercare Instructions
After getting a dental crown, it’s vital to maintain good oral hygiene. This will help maintain the crown’s longevity. The better you care for your teeth and gums, the longer it will last.
The average dental crown lasts 10 to 15 years. However, with proper care, it can last decades. Proper care involves daily brushing, flossing, and attending regular dental checkups. Be sure to floss around the crown every single day.
Dental Crown FAQs
Learn more about dental crown treatment in Flower Mound, TX, with answers to these commonly asked questions:
Do dental crowns hurt?
Dental crowns usually don’t hurt. When you get a crown, our dentist will numb the area with a local anesthetic, so you shouldn’t feel any pain during the procedure.
After the crown is placed, you may feel some sensitivity for a few days, especially when eating hot or cold foods. This is normal and should go away soon. If you have any pain that lasts longer or feels intense, it’s important to contact your dentist to make sure everything is okay.
Do crowns look natural?
Yes, dental crowns are designed to look natural. Dentists use materials like porcelain that match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth. This helps the crown blend in with the rest of your smile.
Our dentist will work with you to make sure the crown looks and feels right. They will match it to the color of your other teeth and shape it to fit perfectly in your mouth. With modern technology and materials, most people won’t even notice you have a crown
Can dental crowns treat missing teeth?
A dental crown alone cannot replace a missing tooth, but it can be part of a treatment to fill the gap. We use a dental implant to replace a single missing tooth root. Then, we place a crown on top of the implant to restore the look and function of your tooth.
If you have a gap from a missing tooth, a crown can be used as part of a dental bridge. Crowns are placed on the teeth next to the gap to support the bridge, which fills in the missing tooth space.
Do I need a crown after a root canal?
Yes, most of the time you will need a crown after a root canal. A root canal removes the infected or damaged tissue inside your tooth, which can make the tooth weaker. A crown helps protect the tooth from breaking and restores its shape and strength. Without a crown, the tooth might not last as long. Your dentist will recommend a crown to make sure the tooth stays strong and works properly.
Can I brush and floss my crown normally?
Yes, you can brush and floss your crown normally. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth twice a day. When flossing, be gentle around the crown to avoid damaging it. Make sure to floss carefully to clean between your teeth and around the crown. Proper care will help keep your crown and teeth healthy for a long time.
What do I do if my crown breaks?
If your crown breaks, don’t panic. First, if you can find the broken pieces, keep them in a safe place and bring them to our dentist. Try not to chew on the broken crown or put pressure on it. This will prevent further damage to the tooth. We can help you schedule an appointment to check the crown and decide if it can be repaired or if a new one is needed.
How do you care for a temporary dental crown?
Caring for a temporary dental crown ensures it stays in place until your permanent crown is ready. First, avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods, especially on the side with the temporary crown. This helps prevent it from loosening or breaking.
Brush your teeth as usual, but be gentle around the temporary crown. Use a soft toothbrush and avoid scrubbing too hard to prevent the crown from coming loose.
When you floss, be gentle around the crown. Try not to pull the floss up forcefully, as this can cause the crown to come off. Instead, slide the floss gently in and out. Also, sticky foods, like chewing gum or caramel, can pull off the temporary crown. Avoid them until you get your permanent crown.
How much does a dental crown cost?
The cost of your crown will depend on the number of crowns and crown material. If you have dental insurance, it may cover part of the cost. Our dental office works with Care Credit and Alphaeon to ensure you get affordable crowns.
Schedule a Consultation
A tooth crown is a versatile dental restoration that can effectively restore your tooth’s function and appearance. Dr. Gray can provide you with a dental crown in Flower Mound, TX, if you have oral health challenges or want to enhance the appearance of your tooth. To book a consultation, call 972-848-8745 or request an appointment online.