A beautiful, healthy smile can significantly enhance your confidence and quality of life. At Kootenai Family Dentistry, we’re committed to providing you with high-quality dental solutions like dental crowns. Dental crowns are a versatile and durable restoration option that can protect, strengthen, and enhance the appearance of your teeth.
What Are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns fully encase the visible portion of a tooth above the gum line, providing both functional and aesthetic benefits.
When Are Dental Crowns Recommended?
Dental crowns are often used in the following situations:
- To protect a tooth weakened by decay or fracture.
- To restore a tooth that has been worn down or broken.
- To support a tooth with a large filling when there isn’t enough natural tooth left.
- To cover and protect a tooth after root canal treatment.
- To improve the appearance of a misshapen or severely discolored tooth.
- To anchor a dental bridge or cap a dental implant.
Types of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including:
- Porcelain or Ceramic: Provides a natural appearance and is ideal for front teeth.
- Metal: Extremely durable and often used for back teeth.
- Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM): Combines the strength of metal with the aesthetics of porcelain.
- Zirconia: Known for its strength and tooth-like appearance.
During your consultation with Dr. Kalene Colwell, we’ll discuss which material is best suited to your needs based on the location of the tooth and your aesthetic preferences.
Dental Crown Procedure
Getting a dental crown typically involves two visits. Here’s what to expect during the process:
First Appointment: Preparation
- Examination and Consultation
During your initial visit, we’ll assess the affected tooth using visual exams, X-rays, or other diagnostic tools. If a crown is necessary, we’ll discuss the treatment plan with you. - Tooth Preparation
The tooth will be reshaped to create space for the crown. If a significant portion of the tooth is missing, a filling material may be used to build it up. - Impressions
A digital or traditional impression of your tooth will be taken to ensure the crown fits perfectly. The impression is sent to a dental lab where your custom crown will be crafted. - Temporary Crown Placement
While your permanent crown is being made, we’ll place a temporary crown to protect your tooth.
Second Appointment: Crown Placement
- Temporary Crown Removal
At your second visit, the temporary crown will be removed, and your tooth will be cleaned. - Fitting and Adjustments
The permanent crown will be placed to check the fit, bite, and aesthetics. Any necessary adjustments will be made. - Cementation
Once everything is perfect, the crown will be securely cemented in place, restoring your tooth’s function and appearance.
What to Expect After Getting a Dental Crown
After your crown is placed, you may experience minor sensitivity to hot or cold foods, but this typically subsides within a few days. It’s important to maintain good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing around the crown, to prevent decay or gum disease.
With proper care and regular dental check-ups, a dental crown can last 10–15 years or even longer. Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice or pens to protect your crown from unnecessary wear or damage.
Benefits of Dental Crowns
- Durable and Long-Lasting: Crowns provide lasting protection for damaged teeth.
- Improved Appearance: A custom crown blends seamlessly with your natural teeth.
- Enhanced Functionality: Restores your ability to chew, speak, and smile with confidence.
- Versatile Application: Used for both restorative and cosmetic purposes.
At Kootenai Family Dentistry, we provide personalized care and high-quality dental restorations. If you have a damaged or weakened tooth, a dental crown might be the perfect solution to restore your smile.
Contact us today and let us help you achieve a healthy, functional, and radiant smile with dental crowns!