Your smile is a vital part of who you are, affecting not only your appearance but also your self-confidence and overall well-being. Modern dentistry offers a wide range of solutions to transform even the most challenging smiles into ones that look vibrant, healthy, and beautiful.
At Sterling Plaza Dentistry, our team understands that dental issues can significantly impact your quality of life. Whether you have minor flaws in a single tooth or multiple teeth with significant imperfections, we offer comprehensive solutions to restore both the aesthetics and function of your smile.
Dental fillings are effective for treating small cavities and minor tooth damage. However, when extensive damage occurs due to decay, cracked fillings, root canals, or habits like teeth grinding, a filling may not be sufficient. In such cases, a dental crown is often the best solution. Dental crowns provide full coverage and protection for damaged teeth, restoring their natural appearance and functionality.
Dental crowns are versatile and can be used in various situations beyond just repairing a single tooth. They serve as supporting ends for dental bridges, cover dental implants, and protect cracked teeth from further damage. Crowns are also ideal for masking discolored or stained teeth, ensuring a uniform and natural-looking smile.
Our team offers crowns made from high-quality materials, including porcelain baked onto a metal substrate, all-porcelain, or advanced ceramic materials. These materials not only mimic the appearance of natural teeth but also provide excellent strength and durability.
A dental crown is essentially a custom-made cap that encases the entire visible portion of a tooth above the gum line. It restores the tooth's shape, size, strength, and appearance. The process begins with an impression of the prepared tooth, which is then sent to a dental laboratory for fabrication.
Once the crown is ready, it is carefully fitted onto the prepared tooth using dental cement or adhesive. This ensures a secure bond and prevents any movement or dislodgment. The entire procedure typically requires two visits: one for preparation and impression-taking, and another for the final placement of the crown.
The necessity for a dental crown can arise from various dental issues. Some common indications include:
Dental crowns come in various materials, each with its own advantages. The choice of material depends on the tooth's location, the extent of damage, and aesthetic considerations.
Metal crowns, such as gold or other alloys, are known for their strength and durability. They are often used for back teeth where biting forces are highest but can be more noticeable due to their color. All-porcelain or ceramic crowns offer superior aesthetics, closely matching the natural color of your teeth.
Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns combine the strength of metal with the aesthetic appeal of porcelain. However, they may show a dark line at the gumline over time. Newer materials like zirconia and lithium disilicate provide both strength and natural appearance, making them an excellent choice for front and back teeth.
Dental crowns offer numerous benefits that make them a popular choice for restoring damaged teeth:
The process of getting a dental crown typically involves two visits to our office. During the first visit, we prepare the tooth by removing any decay or old fillings and shaping it to accommodate the crown. Impressions of the prepared tooth are taken to create a custom-fitted crown.
While waiting for the permanent crown to be fabricated, a temporary crown is placed to protect the prepared tooth. Once the permanent crown is ready, usually within 1-2 weeks, you will return for the second visit. During this appointment, we remove the temporary crown and cement the permanent one in place.
After placement, we ensure that the crown fits comfortably and matches your natural teeth in color and shape. Any necessary adjustments are made to achieve the perfect fit and aesthetics.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for the longevity of your dental crown. Regular brushing and flossing help prevent decay around the crowned tooth. Additionally, avoiding hard foods that could damage the crown or dislodge it will extend its lifespan.
While dental crowns are designed to withstand normal biting forces, they are not indestructible. It's essential to avoid habits like teeth grinding or using your teeth as tools to open packages, as these can cause damage.
Dental crowns are an excellent solution for restoring damaged or discolored teeth, providing both functional and aesthetic benefits. At Sterling Plaza Dentistry we offer a range of high-quality materials and techniques to ensure your dental crown looks natural and lasts for years to come.
If you have questions about dental crowns or would like to schedule a consultation, please contact us at the office of Sterling Plaza Dentistry.
Ready to schedule your next dental appointment or have questions about our services?
Contacting Sterling Plaza Dentistry is easy! Our friendly staff is available to assist you with scheduling appointments, answering inquiries about treatment options, and addressing any concerns you may have. Whether you prefer to give us a call, send us an email, or fill out our convenient online contact form, we're here to help. Don't wait to take the first step towards achieving the smile of your dreams – reach out to us today and discover the difference personalized dental care can make.
