Dental Crowns Can Give You a Beautiful Smile
Achieving a healthy, radiant smile is possible with dental crowns, a versatile solution for restoring damaged or decayed teeth. Our Hilliard, OH, dentist at Fishinger Dental provides custom crowns tailored to each patient’s unique needs, combining functionality and aesthetics.
If you’re seeking reliable restorative dentistry services, call our Hilliard dental office at (614) 771-6060 to learn how dental crowns can enhance your smile.
What Are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns, often referred to as tooth crowns or caps, are custom-made prosthetic devices designed to cover and protect a damaged tooth. By encasing the entire tooth structure—from the gum line to the chewing surface—crowns restore both function and appearance.
When Is a Dental Crown Necessary?
Dental crowns address a wide range of oral health concerns, including:
- Protecting a Weak Tooth: Safeguard teeth weakened by decay, large dental fillings, or root canal treatment to prevent fractures.
- Restoring a Damaged Tooth: Repair chipped, cracked, or severely worn teeth.
- Completing Dental Implants: Top your dental implant with a crown for a natural-looking replacement.
- Supporting Dental Bridges: Anchor a dental bridge to replace missing teeth effectively.
- Cosmetic Improvements: Enhance the appearance of uneven, misshapen, or discolored teeth.
Signs You Need Dental Crowns
Recognizing when you need a dental crown is crucial for maintaining oral health. Some key indicators include:
- Tooth pain or sensitivity
- A cracked or chipped tooth
- A large filling that needs to be replaced
- A tooth that has had a root canal
- A tooth that’s misshapen or discolored
Benefits of Dental Crowns
There are numerous benefits of dental crowns, including:
- Protection: Shield damaged or weakened teeth from further harm.
- Restoration: Restore the natural shape, function, and appearance of teeth.
- Durability: With proper care, crowns can last 10–15 years or longer.
- Versatility: Address various dental issues, from restorative to cosmetic needs.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Match the color and contour of natural teeth, ensuring a seamless result.
If you’re wondering how dental crowns may benefit you, contact our Hilliard dentist today at (614) 771-6060 to schedule your next appointment!
Types of Dental Crowns
There are various dental crowns, providing each patient with the solution they need to restore their smile. Our Hilliard dentist will evaluate your options and recommend the best choice for your dental health.
Porcelain Crowns
Porcelain crowns are made of a tooth-colored material that can be matched to the shade of your natural teeth, making them a popular choice for front teeth. They’re biocompatible and produce a natural, lifelike appearance.
Metal Crowns
Metal crowns are made of gold, nickel, or other metal alloys. They’re extremely durable, can withstand heavy biting forces, and last a long time. However, their metallic color makes them less popular for front teeth.
Porcelain-fused-to-Metal Crowns (PFM)
PFM crowns are made by fusing a metal base with a porcelain coating, providing the strength of the metal and the aesthetics of the porcelain. They can be used for both front and back teeth.
Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia crowns are made of a durable, biocompatible material resistant to chipping and cracking. They can be matched to the color of your natural teeth and are an ideal option for back teeth.
Same-Day Crowns
Same-day crowns, also known as CEREC crowns, are a type of dental crown fabricated and placed in a single dental visit. This is in contrast to traditional dental crowns, which typically require multiple appointments and temporary crowns while waiting for the permanent crown to be fabricated in a dental lab.
The Dental Crown Procedure at Our Hilliard Dental Office
1. Consultation and Planning
Your journey to getting your custom crowns begins with a comprehensive evaluation. Using digital impressions and X-rays, your dentist assesses the affected tooth’s condition and recommends the best type of crown. If needed, any underlying issues, such as decay or infection, will be addressed first.
2. First Visit: Tooth Preparation
During this visit, your Hilliard dentist will:
- Numb the Area: Local anesthesia provides comfort.
- Reshape the Tooth: Remove a portion of the natural enamel to create space for the crown.
- Take Impressions: Using traditional molds or a digital scanner, an accurate model of your tooth is created.
- Place a Temporary Crown: Protect your prepared tooth with a temporary restoration while your permanent crown is fabricated.
3. Second Visit: Crown Placement
Once your permanent crown is ready (typically in two to three weeks), Dr. Nathan Desai will:
- Fit and Adjust the Crown: Ensure a precise fit and natural bite alignment.
- Cement the Crown: Secure the crown in place using dental cement.
- Polish and Finish: Final adjustments are made for comfort and aesthetics.
Same-day crowns, available with advanced CEREC technology, offer a quicker alternative for eligible patients.
Aftercare Tips for Your New Dental Crowns
To maintain the longevity of your new crown, here’s how to care for your dental crown:
- Practice excellent oral hygiene, including regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing around the crown.
- Avoid biting down on hard objects like ice or pens.
- Schedule regular check-ups to monitor your crown and dental health.
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce plaque buildup around the crown.
How Much Do Dental Crowns Cost in Hilliard?
When considering dental crowns, cost is an important factor for many patients. In Hilliard, a dental crown can range from $800 to $2,500 per tooth. This variation in dental crown cost is influenced by several factors, including the type of material used for the crown, the complexity of the procedure, and the specific needs of each patient.
Additionally, if multiple crowns are required, the total cost will increase accordingly. It’s essential to consult with your Hilliard dentist to get a detailed estimate tailored to your dental health needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do dental crowns last?
Generally, dental crowns can last anywhere from five to 15 years or even longer with proper care. The lifespan of your dental crown will depend on various factors, such as the material used, your oral hygiene routine, and the amount of wear and tear the crown is subjected to. Porcelain and ceramic crowns tend to have a longer lifespan than metal or resin-based crowns.
Is it painful to get a dental crown?
The dental crown procedure is typically painless, as local anesthesia is used. Some patients may experience mild sensitivity or discomfort after the procedure, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
How long does it take to put a dental crown on a tooth?
Generally, it takes two dental visits to complete the dental crown placement process. The time it takes to place a dental crown on a tooth can vary depending on the specific case and the dentist’s technique. Your dentist will provide a treatment timeline at your initial consultation.
Can a dental crown be placed in one day?
Yes, with CEREC (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) technology, dentists can design, create, and place a crown in just one visit for eligible patients.
Discover the Best Solution for Your Smile
Dental crowns are a trusted solution for restoring oral health and confidence. Whether you’re dealing with a cracked tooth, a dental implant, or cosmetic concerns, we’re here to help. Call our Hilliard dental office at (614) 771-6060 today to schedule your consultation. We proudly serve patients from Columbus, Dublin, Upper Arlington, Grove City, Westerville, and surrounding areas.