Dental Crowns
The tooth can be divided into two basic parts – the root and the crown. A cemented restoration that partially or completely covers the outside of the clinical crown is referred to as a dental crown or cap.
There are many situations that require a tooth to be restored with a dental crown. Below is a list of the most common:
- A large filling that involves half the width of the tooth needs to be covered with a dental crown.
- A root canal treatment leaves the tooth hollowed out and will need a dental crown to prevent fracturing.
- When a tooth is fractured and pain is involved and dental crown can hold the tooth together.
- Teeth that have an unacceptable appearance can be altered using dental crowns.
- Dental crowns are placed over implants to close gaps from missing teeth.
Dental crowns can be made out of a gold alloy, other metal alloys, stainless steel, all-porcelain, composite resin, or zirconia. There are advantages and disadvantages to all of the types of dental crowns. Visit Sunrise Dental today and discuss your options with a dental professional.
We offer convenient scheduling hours and have many locations in the Bonney Lake, Maple Valley, Puyallup, Carnation, Auburn, Kent, and Issaquah areas to serve you.
Dental crowns should last on average from 10 to 20 years. Dental crowns are still susceptible to fracture and cavities so it is important to continue treating them as you would your natural teeth. Regular dental check-ups and daily good oral hygiene will help keep your smile healthy and happy.
The cost of dental crowns varies depending on the materials used, so contact a Sunrise Dental professional today to discuss your options. We have friendly staff members available to help you understand your dental benefits and out of pocket costs for dental crowns.
We have locations in and around the Renton, Tukwila, Southcenter, Lakewood, Tacoma, Redmond, Monroe, and Bellevue areas all with convenient appointment hours.
Please Call Us At: +1 (855) 467-8674
- Brush your teeth at least once per day, but two times is better. Brush in the morning when you awake, and at night before you go to sleep. When possible, after meals, rinse your mouth out with water.
- Floss once per day, usually towards the end of the day, to remove any particles and bacteria from between teeth.
- Eat healthy balanced meals, and avoid sugary snacks or sticky foods that can stick to teeth.
- Do not eat late night meals, and if you do, please make sure and brush before you go to bed.
- Do not smoke or use tobacco products. They can weaken and stain teeth permanently.
Have you ever put off having a dental procedure done because you were scared?
If so, you are not alone. Many people avoid getting dental work done because they have a fear of the unknown.
No one wants cavities when they visit the dentist, so it is important to practice good oral hygiene at home and get regular dental check-ups to catch any problems early before they turn into a dental filling.
After all, good oral hygiene will reduce the risk of cavities and eliminate the need for a dental filling. Do not put off your dental check-ups. Good oral hygiene is related to overall good health.
Visit a Sunrise Dental office today to keep your mouth in tip-top shape without any cavities or fillings.
If it has been determined by your dental professional that a filling is needed to repair a cavity there are a variety of different materials that can be used for filling teeth. The two most common are amalgam fillings or silver or mercury fillings, made up of silver, tin, copper, zinc, and mercury, and composite resin fillings known as white fillings, tooth-colored fillings, and direct veneers. Both are viable options, but only a dental professional can determine what the best option for your filling is.
The average life of a filling is about 12 years. It is important to visit your dentist regularly so that your fillings can be examined. Between dental check-ups, it is also important to maintain good oral hygiene to prevent decay from occurring under the filling.
If you have many fillings or very large fillings, your dentist may prescribe a fluoride gel you can use at home. You can also use rinses that lower the acid level of your mouth. A lower acid level reduces decay-causing bacteria. This can lead to fewer cavities and dental fillings in the future.
Call a Sunrise Dental office today to schedule your check-up. Don’t let something simple turn into something more serious. The friendly staff at Sunrise Dental can help you with any questions you have concerning dental fillings.
We have many locations in the Bellevue, SeaTac, Seattle, Downtown Seattle, Snohomish, Bothell, Mill Creek, Lynnwood, and Olympia areas with convenient hours to meet your needs.
Please Call Us At: +1 (855) 467-8674
- Brush your teeth at least once per day, but two times is better. Brush in the morning when you awake, and at night before you go to sleep. When possible, after meals, rinse your mouth out with water.
- Floss once per day, usually towards the end of the day, to remove any particles and bacteria from between teeth.
- Eat healthy balanced meals, and avoid sugary snacks or sticky foods that can stick to teeth.
- Do not eat late night meals, and if you do, please make sure and brush before you go to bed.
- Do not smoke or use tobacco products. They can weaken and stain teeth permanently.
Dental Crowns
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap used to restore a decayed, broken, weakened, or worn-down tooth. Dentists also employ crowns to cover dental implants and teeth treated with root canals. Crafted from a range of materials such as metal, resin, and porcelain, crowns typically endure between five and 15 years with diligent maintenance.
What is a dental crown, and why might I need one?
A dental crown is a cap that covers a damaged tooth, restoring its shape, size, and strength. It acts as a protective layer, enhancing functionality in activities like biting and chewing. Dental crowns serve both restorative and cosmetic purposes. Crowns may be recommended for:
- Tooth Decay: When a tooth has a significant amount of decay that cannot be effectively restored with a filling, a crown may be necessary to cover and protect the remaining tooth structure.
- Broken or Fractured Teeth: Teeth that are cracked, broken, or severely worn down may benefit from the support and protection provided by a dental crown.
- Large Fillings: If a tooth has a large filling that compromises its structural integrity, a crown may be recommended to strengthen and support the remaining tooth structure.
- Root Canal Treatment: After a root canal procedure, the tooth often becomes more brittle. Placing a crown on the treated tooth helps protect it and prevents further damage.
- Cosmetic Reasons: Dental crowns can be used for cosmetic purposes to improve the appearance of misshapen, discolored, or poorly aligned teeth.
- Dental Bridges: Crowns are commonly used as anchor points for dental bridges. They provide support for the artificial teeth in the bridge, helping to fill gaps caused by missing teeth.
What materials are used for dental crowns, and how do they differ?
Dental crowns come in various materials chosen based on specific factors:
- Porcelain or Ceramic: Ideal for front teeth due to their natural appearance.
- Metal (Gold or Silver Alloys): Sturdy and durable, often used for molars.
- Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM): Combines metal strength with porcelain aesthetics.
- All-Resin: Cost-effective, used for temporary crowns or front teeth.
- Zirconia: Strong, durable, and natural-looking, suitable for various applications.
The material choice considers the tooth’s location, functionality, and cosmetic preferences for an optimal fit.
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What is the process for getting a dental crown?
Here is an overview of the general steps involved in getting a dental crown:
- Examination: Assess tooth, discuss crown option.
- Tooth Preparation: Shape tooth/teeth for a final impression.
- Impression: Make a mold of the prepared tooth.
- Temporary Crown: Resin material used to cover the newly shaped prepared tooth.
- Crown Fabrication: Lab fabricates the crown.
- Permanent Crown Placement: Fit the new crown, check the margins, shape and color. Cement in place.
- Adjustments: Ensure comfort and function, bite adjustments may be necessary.
- Post-Placement Care: Provide care instructions, schedule follow-ups.
How many years can I expect a dental crown to last?
A dental crown can last 5 to 15 years or more, depending on factors like materials, oral care, and bite forces. Regular check-ups help monitor and maintain the crown’s longevity.
How do I care for a dental crown once it is in place?
Maintain your dental crown with these tips:
- Brush & Floss
- Soft Toothbrush
- Non-Abrasive Toothpaste
- Avoid Chewing Hazards (hard or sticky foods)
- Watch Your Diet (acidic foods)
- Mouthguard for Bruxism (Grinding)
- Regular Check-ups
- Limit Tobacco