What are Dental Crowns?
Teeth that are worn down, moderately decayed, or damaged in some other way can often be saved with custom dental crowns. Made to cover individual teeth from the gumline up, crowns (also known as "caps") are customized in color, shape, and size to restore proper biting function and appearance to your smile. At LANCO Dental Care in Lancaster, PA, we commonly use dental crowns to treat large cavities, replace large fillings, support a cracked tooth, complete a dental implant for tooth replacement, or address other oral health needs. Dental crowns are fabricated from a selection of high-quality materials to meet your specific needs, including all-ceramic, porcelain fused to metal (PFM), and noble metals, like gold. If you have a damaged tooth, make a consultation at our family dental practice to find out how a crown may strengthen or repair your oral health and bring harmony back to your smile. For more information on receiving adult or children's crowns in Lancaster, PA, contact our office to schedule an appointment today.
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Who is a Candidate for dental caps?
A crown may be recommended to address various oral health needs. You or a family member may be an ideal candidate for one of our different crown options if you need to treat any of the following conditions:
- Broken teeth
- Cracked teeth
- Worn-down enamel
- Moderately decayed teeth
- Misshapen or discolored teeth
- Replacement of large fillings
- Single dental implant restoration
- Root canal-treated teeth
The materials used to create tooth caps for broken teeth and other crowns are often selected based on the location of the tooth. Metal or porcelain fused to metal crowns are typically stronger, which makes them better suited for the less visible teeth in the back while ceramic or porcelain crowns are generally preferred for the smile zone. Our talented team customizes crowns to match the shape, color, and size of your teeth for a seamless and natural appearance. During your consultation at our Lancaster, PA practice, we will explain your choices and help you select the best dental crown for your needs and aesthetic goals.
What Are The Benefits Of Dental Crowns?
Our team understands how a missing or damaged tooth can impact your self-esteem and oral health. Made Ya Smile dentists may recommend a dental crown as an effective treatment for a missing or cracked tooth. Some of the benefits our patients may experience from a dental crown include:
- Greater comfort and ease of talking, chewing, and expression
- Simple, customized treatment that needs very little downtime
- Restored use and appearance of teeth and mouth
- Long-lasting results that will keep you content for years to come
What is the treatment process for crowns?
On the day of your crown procedure, we will numb the tooth and surrounding gum tissues for comfort. Our team will then prepare your tooth by eliminating decay or damaged tooth structure and making room for the crown. An impression of the area will then be taken and utilized to fabricate your custom dental crown. If needed, a temporary dental crown can be used to cover your tooth while your permanent crown is being made. As soon as your custom crown is ready, we will bond your new restoration over your prepared tooth or connect it to a dental implant previously positioned in your jaw. The crown will then be adjusted as needed to ensure an even and comfortable bite.
What happens after Crown Placement?
Once your permanent crown is placed, you should be able to leave our office and go about your daily activities. One of our team members will discuss how to care for your crown and offer tips on the best way to keep it clean. When you visit our Lancaster, PA practice for routine dental visits, we will evaluate your crown and the health of the underlying tooth or dental implant. With proper care and a good oral hygiene routine, your restoration can last for several years. If you have any trouble with your crown (if it falls out or feels loose), contact our office immediately. Please avoid attempting to fix it or reattach it on your own since this can damage your tooth and crown.
Dental Crowns FAQ
How long does it take for a dental tooth cap to settle?
Your new dental crown might feel a little bulky or awkward after your procedure, but it should settle in within about two weeks. After that, if you're still experiencing any discomfort, you should contact us so we can best assist you. White crowns for teeth don't often cause an issue.
How long do dental crowns last?
A ceramic cap for your teeth can last up to 15 years with proper maintenance. If it becomes cracked or damaged, it can likely be treated the same way as your normal teeth.
When can I eat after a dental crown placement?
After your dental crown placement, you should wait at least one hour before eating. This will help your crown settle in without any issue.
Return Function and Appearance
Custom dental crowns can return normal oral function and a natural appearance to your smile. Made from the highest quality materials, dental crowns cover, rebuild, and protect damaged teeth or are attached to single dental implants to complete a tooth replacement procedure. For more on custom and implant-retained dental crowns, contact LANCO Dental Care in Lancaster, PA and schedule your treatment consultation.