
The Process for Getting a Dental Crown

During ancient times, crowns were often made of gold and considered a symbol of wealth and power. Today, the best crowns go unnoticed, as they blend seamlessly with your other teeth.
Our experienced team creates custom crowns to cap damaged teeth and restore their function in just a few easy steps at Smile Bright Dental in Tampa and New Port Richey, Florida.
What materials are used for crowns?
Crowns may be crafted from a variety of materials, including:
Porcelain-fused-to-metal
One of the most popular types, porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns are frequently used on back teeth due to their fortitude. The porcelain matches your adjacent teeth, while the base offers support. The metal may show if your gums recede, however. Other than that, PFM crowns provide an excellent combination of strength and beauty.
All-ceramic or all-porcelain
Perfect for patients with metal allergies or those seeking a more natural look, all-ceramic or all-porcelain crowns blend well with both front and back teeth.
Metal
Since they rarely chip or break, all-metal crowns made from gold, platinum, or other alloys work best on back molars, where stability is more important than blending in. These sturdy metals can handle the pressure of chewing and offer the most longevity.
Crowns made entirely of resin provide a less expensive alternative. They’re more prone to fractures, however, than other options.
Our step-by-step crown process
Our team creates your crown in two visits. During your first visit, we:
- Take several X-rays of the area
- Examine the extent of the decay or breakage
- Numb the area with anesthesia
- Remove the decay
- Reshape your tooth to allow room for a crown
- Build up areas, if necessary, to support your crown
- Gather digital images or impressions for the exact specifications of your tooth
- Select the best shade for your new crown
Your dentist places a temporary crown made of resin or acrylic on your tooth. We then send the impression and scans to a lab to create your perfect crown.
Two to three weeks later, we check the fit of your permanent crown, numb the area if necessary, and cement your permanent crown in place.
Even though your crown protects your underlying tooth, it’s even more important to practice good dental hygiene to prevent decay.
After you receive your crown
You shouldn’t experience any pain or sensitivity after 48 hours. If you do, it may signal an improper bite, which we can easily adjust. We may also recommend special sensitivity toothpaste.
Should your crown suffer a minor chip, we can repair it with a composite resin. If the chip is extensive, you may need a new crown. If your crown loosens or falls out, contact our team as soon as possible to keep harmful bacteria from damaging your exposed tooth.
How to care for your crown
With proper care, crowns last an average of 15 years or more. Our team offers various suggestions to keep your crown and teeth in tip-top shape, including:
- Avoid chewy or crunchy foods, such as nuts or popcorn
- Don’t bite on ice cubes
- Stay away from sticky treats, such as caramel or marshmallows
- Floss and brush at least twice a day
- Use a fluoride toothpaste and antibacterial mouthwash to tame bacteria and plaque
We also recommend regular dental exams and cleanings to keep your mouth healthy.
Expert care for you and your smile
Our compassionate team at Smile Bright Dental incorporates a range of preventive, restorative, and cosmetic procedures, from crowns to veneers, to ensure your ongoing dental health.
To discuss your dental issues or to schedule an appointment, give us a call today or book online at any time.
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