Dental crowns are custom-made prosthetic devices used in dentistry to restore and strengthen damaged or weakened teeth while improving their appearance. These tooth-shaped restorations encase the entire visible portion of a tooth above the gumline, providing protection, support, and aesthetic enhancement. Dental crowns are fabricated from various materials, such as porcelain, metal alloys, or both, tailored to match the natural color, size, and shape of the patient's teeth. Whether addressing extensive decay, fractures, or cosmetic concerns, dental crowns play a crucial role in preserving oral health, restoring function, and enhancing the overall aesthetics of the smile.
Did you know that according to the American Dental Association (ADA), dental crowns typically last an average of 10 to 15 years, although with proper care and maintenance, they can last even longer?
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WHAT TO EXPECT AT YOUR DENTAL CROWN APPOINTMENT?
Preparation of the Tooth
The dentist in Austin, TX, will begin by preparing the tooth that will receive the dental crown. This involves removing a portion of the outer layer of the tooth to create space for the crown. The amount of tooth structure removed will depend on the type of crown being used and the extent of the damage or decay.
Impression Taking
Once the tooth is prepared, the dentist will take impressions (molds) of the tooth and surrounding teeth. These impressions will be used to fabricate a custom-made dental crown that matches the size, shape, and color of your natural teeth. Some dental offices may use digital scanning technology to create digital impressions instead of traditional molds.
Temporary Crown Placement
While the permanent crown is being fabricated in a dental laboratory (which typically takes about 1-2 weeks), the dentist will place a temporary crown over the prepared tooth to protect it and maintain the tooth's function and appearance. The temporary crown is usually made of acrylic or stainless steel and is secured in place with temporary cement.
Final Crown Placement
Once the permanent crown is ready, you will return to the dental office for the final crown placement. The dentist will remove the temporary crown, clean the tooth, and carefully place the permanent crown over the prepared tooth. The fit and appearance of the crown will be evaluated to ensure it meets your expectations and functions properly.
Adjustments and Cementation
After confirming the fit of the crown, the dentist may make any necessary adjustments to ensure a comfortable bite and optimal alignment with neighboring teeth. Then, the crown will be permanently cemented or bonded to the tooth using dental adhesive. Final adjustments may be made to ensure a seamless fit and proper occlusion.
Types of Dental Crowns
Porcelain crowns are prized for their natural appearance, translucency, and ability to blend seamlessly with natural teeth. These crowns are excellent for restoring front teeth or those visible when smiling. Advantages include:
- Porcelain crowns closely mimic natural teeth' color, texture, and luster, providing a lifelike appearance.
- Porcelain is biocompatible and gentle on gum tissues, making it suitable for patients with allergies or sensitivities.
- Porcelain crowns are resistant to staining and discoloration, ensuring long-lasting aesthetics.
Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns combine the strength of metal with the aesthetic appeal of porcelain. These crowns feature a metal substructure covered with porcelain, offering strength and natural-looking aesthetics. Advantages include:
- The metal substructure provides strength and stability, while the porcelain overlay provides a lifelike appearance.
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns can match the color and shade of adjacent teeth, ensuring seamless integration with the smile.
- PFM crowns are suitable for both front and back teeth, providing strength and aesthetics where needed.
All ceramic crowns are made entirely of dental ceramic materials, offering excellent aesthetics, biocompatibility, and durability. These crowns suit patients seeking highly aesthetic restorations or those with metal allergies or sensitivities. Advantages include:
- All ceramic crowns mimic enamel's natural color, translucency, and texture, providing beautiful, lifelike results.
- Ceramic materials are biocompatible and gentle on gum tissues, making them suitable for patients with allergies or sensitivities.
- All ceramic crowns are versatile and can be used to restore front and back teeth, providing strength and aesthetics where needed.
Dental abscesses are pockets of pus caused by bacterial infection, often resulting from untreated tooth decay or gum disease. Symptoms may include severe pain, swelling of the face or gums, fever, and difficulty swallowing. To manage an abscess or infection:
- Rinse the mouth with warm salt water to help reduce pain and draw out infection.
- Avoid hot or cold foods and beverages that may exacerbate discomfort.
- Use over-the-counter pain relievers as directed to alleviate pain and inflammation.
- Seek urgent dental care for the abscess drainage and prescription antibiotics to control the infection.
Excessive bleeding from the gums, tongue, or soft tissues may occur due to trauma, dental procedures, or underlying health conditions such as gum disease. To manage bleeding:
- Apply gentle pressure with clean gauze or a tea bag to the bleeding area.
- Avoid excessive spitting, as it can prolong bleeding.
- Rinse the mouth gently with water to remove any blood clots.
- If bleeding persists or is severe, seek immediate medical attention or visit an emergency dental clinic for evaluation and treatment.
Lasers can be used for a wide range of dental procedures, including cavity detection and treatment, gum disease therapy, soft tissue surgeries, teeth whitening, and more. This versatility allows dental professionals to address various oral health issues with a single tool.
Many patients report greater comfort and satisfaction with laser dentistry compared to traditional methods. The reduced need for anesthesia, minimal discomfort during procedures, and faster recovery times contribute to a more positive dental experience.
Did you know that in addition to strengthening and protecting weakened teeth, dental crowns can also improve the appearance, shape, alignment, and color of teeth?
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Working Hours
- MON - THU8:00 am - 5:00 pm
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South Austin Dental Associates
Location
4419 Frontier Trail #104,
Austin, TX
Phone : (512) 444-1133Text Us : (512) 444-1133