Metal-based crowns have a lifespan of 20 or more years.
Dr. Hurley will perform an oral exam and take x-rays to assess the extent of damage or decay in the tooth. Decay will need to be treated before moving forward with dental crowns.
We will apply a numbing gel to the inside of your mouth so you can’t feel the needle used to inject local anesthesia. Your mouth is numbed so you don’t feel any pain during the procedure.
The prep work for dental crowns involves filing down the sides of your tooth that is proportional to the thickness of the crown. This creates enough space for a crown to be placed over your tooth.
After your tooth has been prepped, we will take digital or physical impressions of your tooth and send them to a dental lab for crown fabrication which can take a few weeks. If you are getting a tooth-colored crown, we use a shade guide to color match.
A few weeks later, we will call you back once we have received your dental crown. After checking the fit, shape, and size is desirable, we will bond the crown to your tooth with dental cement.
An expert dental lab is in charge of using the information that we send them about your tooth (impressions, x-rays, photographs, and other information about your bite) to create a custom-fit dental crown that blends seamlessly into your smile.
Lab-made crowns are available in various materials, including, metal, porcelain, ceramic, zirconia, gold alloys, and the popular porcelain-fused-to-metal. Unlike same-day crowns, this process requires at least two appointments, a few weeks of waiting time, and the assistance of an outside dental lab.
However, this process is superior to CEREC crowns in their ability to treat extensive tooth decay, damage, and broken teeth. CEREC crowns can only be milled out of ceramic, which is a notoriously fragile material that is not suitable for long-term restoration or vulnerable teeth, especially the molars that need to withstand a lot of chewing forces.
With lab-made crowns, we can fabricate crowns out of highly durable, strong, and long-lasting materials like metal and zirconia without sacrificing aesthetics.
Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns create the appearance of a natural tooth but are also extremely durable and last for 10 to 20 years.
Teeth that suffer from damage and decay can be protected and restored with dental crowns. Patients with serious cavities, cracked teeth from dental trauma, or broken teeth from accidents and injuries can be dental crown candidates. Crowns create a cap over the entire tooth structure and protect it from further complications. In addition, crowns can restore the shape, appearance, and function of damaged teeth.
Dental crowns can also be used for cosmetic cases if treatments such as veneers and dental bonding are not appropriate. After a root canal, dental crowns are applied to cover and protect teeth after treatment.
You may be a candidate for a dental crown if you have damaged or severely decayed teeth. Schedule an appointment with your dentist if your teeth are causing pain, discomfort, or are visibly damaged or discolored. Depending on the cause of your dental issues, your dentist may suggest a dental crown or another restorative treatment.
Dental crowns last up to 15 years when carefully made and properly placed. Maintaining strong oral health habits such as brushing twice per day, flossing once per day, and seeing your dentist every 6 months can enhance your crown’s longevity. Same-day crowns can be slightly less durable, but they can still last several years with proper care.
Treat your dental crown just as you would with a natural tooth. Be sure to brush twice a day for at least two minutes, ensuring that the full surface of every tooth is polished. Floss at least once per day for a few minutes, preferably at night. Make sure to floss against the tooth and below the gum line. Visit your dentist every six months for a check-up to make sure that your crown and surrounding teeth are in good health.
Dental crowns that are required for restorative purposes are typically covered by insurance. The exact amount of coverage you receive will depend on the deductible and yearly limits of your policy.
If you are receiving a crown for cosmetic purposes, the treatment may not be covered by insurance. Consult with your insurer to make sure your procedure is covered.
Stainless steel crowns are typically used to restore baby or primary teeth in children.
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