Dental Crowns Q & A
Dental crowns are a versatile treatment with restorative and cosmetic applications. At James Peterson Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we use crowns to strengthen teeth that are too damaged or weak for a filling and cover discolored, broken, cracked, or worn teeth. Crowns are strong, durable, and functional, but that’s not all. Since many people have never had a crown before, let’s answer some common questions about them to raise awareness about this tooth-saving treatment.
Q: Are dental crowns noticeable?
A: Only if you want them to be. While a dental crown can be made of gold, most people these days choose porcelain crowns because they look natural. Dental porcelain has a translucent quality that reflects light just like tooth enamel does. When you have a porcelain crown, you should be unable to distinguish it from the surrounding natural teeth, even up close.
Q: How long will a crown last?
A: With proper oral hygiene and routine professional cleanings, a crown should last at least 10 years. The amount of time a crown will last before needing replacement depends on how healthy your gums are, whether you grind and clench your teeth, and how well you maintain your oral health overall. That is why we recommend adopting a thorough oral hygiene routine at home and visiting us every 6 months for a cleaning and exam.
Q: Should I get old crowns replaced?
A: If an older crown appears worn, it may be time to replace it. Crowns are strong enough to withstand the daily forces of biting and chewing for quite a long time. However, they can wear down or become damaged. If that happens, they should be replaced. A worn or cracked crown is no longer strong enough to effectively protect the tooth structure underneath. That is why regular examinations in our office are so important. We can monitor the strength and integrity of any crowns you have and let you know when you should consider replacing them.
Q: Is there a way to speed up the process of getting a crown?
A: Yes! We have same-day crowns available for patients who want a quicker turnaround. Normally, it takes two appointments, with some time in between, to get a crown because, traditionally, it needs to be made in an off-site lab. With advanced digital technology called CEREC, we can now make crowns right in our office. This means there is no need to wear a temporary crown while waiting for a lab to make the permanent one. Your entire procedure is completed in one appointment.
Crowns are an excellent restorative and cosmetic option for patients who want to improve their oral health and create a more beautiful smile. At James Peterson Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we offer same-day crowns for the convenience of our patients. Please call our office located in Coppell, TX for more information about crowns and to request your one-on-one consultation with our expert restorative and cosmetic dentist.
