Dental crowns are like strong caps that cover damaged teeth. As part of restorative dentistry, they fix broken, weak, or badly decayed teeth while making them look like new again. Crowns protect your tooth and help you chew normally, just like your real teeth.
We make crowns from different materials. Some look exactly like real teeth, while others use strong metals. At Mallard Creek Family Dentistry, we’ll walk you through each step and make sure you’re comfortable. Getting a crown is a common procedure that can save your tooth from extraction.
Dental Crowns in Charlotte, NC
Dental crowns help fix damaged teeth in several ways. One common reason is to protect a weak tooth. If a tooth has a large cavity or big filling, it could break easily. A crown covers and strengthens the tooth to prevent damage. This is especially helpful for back teeth used for chewing.
Sometimes teeth get badly cracked or broken. Instead of removing the tooth, a crown can save it. The crown holds the tooth together and makes it strong again. Crowns are also used after root canal treatment since the tooth becomes more fragile and needs protection.
Crowns can also improve your smile’s look as a cosmetic treatment. They can cover teeth that are discolored or oddly shaped. We make crowns to match your natural tooth color so they blend in. Whether you need a crown for health or cosmetic reasons, we’ll make sure it looks and feels right.
The Dental Crown Process
Getting a dental crown typically takes two comfortable visits to our office. At your first appointment, we’ll prepare your tooth by gently shaping it so the crown will fit perfectly. We use numbing medicine so you won’t feel any pain during this process.
After preparing your tooth, we take detailed impressions that guide our dental lab in creating your custom crown. Before you leave, we’ll place a temporary crown to protect your tooth until your permanent one is ready.
About two weeks later, you’ll return for your second visit when your permanent crown arrives from our lab. We’ll remove the temporary crown and carefully check the fit and color of your new crown. Once everything looks and feels right, we securely bond the crown to your tooth using special dental cement. The whole process is comfortable, and most patients are surprised by how natural their new crown looks and feels.
We use high-quality materials to make crowns that match your natural teeth in both strength and appearance. Whether you need a crown for protection or cosmetic reasons, we’ll walk you through each step and answer all your questions. With proper care, your new crown can last for many years while keeping your smile healthy and complete.
Caring for Your New Dental Crown
Your new dental crown needs proper care to last for many years. Brush your teeth twice daily and floss every day to keep your crown clean. Choose a gentle toothpaste because rough kinds can scratch the crown’s surface over time.
Porcelain crowns are strong but can still chip if you bite hard foods like ice or nuts. Be careful when eating these foods. If you grind your teeth at night, ask us about a night guard. This will protect both your crown and your natural teeth while you sleep.
Don’t skip your regular dental checkups. At these visits, we’ll check your crown and make sure everything looks good. If your crown ever feels loose or your bite feels different, call us right away so we can fix it before problems get worse.
Remember to:
- Brush and floss daily with soft toothpaste
- Avoid chewing very hard foods
- Use a night guard if you grind teeth
- Keep up with dental checkups
- Call us if you notice any changes
With good care, your crown can last 10-15 years or longer while keeping your smile healthy and strong.
Patient Review
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does each crown appointment take?
Your first visit usually takes about 60-90 minutes while we prepare your tooth and take impressions. The second visit for placing the permanent crown is shorter, typically 30-45 minutes. We’ll give you specific time estimates when scheduling so you can plan your day.
Will my crowned tooth feel different?
At first, your crown might feel slightly unusual, but most people adjust within a few days. It should soon feel just like your natural teeth when chewing and speaking. If it still feels odd after a week, call us – we can make small adjustments to improve the fit.
Can I get a crown if I’m nervous about dental work?
Absolutely! We offer options to help you relax, from numbing gels to sedation dentistry if needed. Many nervous patients find crowns easier than they expected since the process involves little to no pain. Let us know your concerns, and we’ll go at your pace.
What’s the difference between a crown and a veneer?
Crowns cover the entire tooth for strength, while veneers only cover the front surface for looks. Crowns are better for damaged teeth, while veneers work for cosmetic improvements on healthy teeth. We can explain which option fits your needs best.
How do temporary crowns stay on?
We use a special temporary cement that’s strong enough to last a few weeks but easy to remove when ready. Avoid sticky foods like gum that could pull it off. If your temporary crown comes loose, call us so we can reattach it properly.
Can crowns get cavities?
The crown itself can’t decay, but the tooth underneath and at the gumline still can. That’s why brushing and flossing around your crown is so important. We’ll show you the best way to clean around it during your visit.
Why do some crowns cost more than others?
Prices vary based on the material (porcelain vs. metal) and how much tooth preparation you need. We’ll always explain costs upfront and help you choose the best option for your budget and needs.
What if I don’t like how my crown looks?
We want you to love your smile. If the color or shape isn’t quite right when we place it, we can send it back to the lab for adjustments. Speak up during your appointment so we can make it perfect.
Can I whiten my crowned teeth?
Crowns don’t respond to whitening treatments. If you want whiter teeth, do whitening first so we can match your crown to your new shade. Otherwise, your teeth might whiten while your crown stays the same color.
What foods should I avoid with a new crown?
For the first 24 hours, stick to soft foods while the cement fully sets. Long-term, avoid chewing ice, hard candy, or bones that could chip porcelain crowns. Cut apples and other hard foods into smaller pieces instead of biting directly into them.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
Dental crowns are a valuable solution for restoring teeth that are damaged, weakened, or discolored. They help protect your natural teeth and improve your smile. The process of getting a crown is straightforward and usually only takes two visits. By taking good care of your crown and maintaining regular dental visits, you can ensure it lasts for many years.
Dr. Gustafson and Dr. Rankin are dedicated to helping you get a healthy smile with the best dental care possible. Give us a call at 704-596-0021 or request an appointment online anytime.