Dental Crowns in Helotes
If you have a damaged or decayed tooth, you may need a crown to cover your weak tooth. At Cedar Springs Dental in Helotes TX, Dr. An Ho and our team of experienced dental professionals will carefully assess your situation and recommend the best course of action. If a dental crown is a right choice for you, we will explain the process and answer any questions you may have.
Understanding Dental Crowns
At Cedar Springs Dental in Helotes TX, we provide dental crown services to help restore your smile. A dental crown is a custom-made cap that is placed over a damaged or decayed tooth, the crown type depends on you. Crowns are used to restore the tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance, and can also help protect a weak tooth from further damage.
The Process of Getting a Dental Crown
At Cedar Springs Dental, we use state-of-the-art technology and techniques to ensure that your dental crown procedure is as comfortable and efficient as possible. Here’s what you can expect:
First, our team will carefully prepare your tooth for the crown by removing any decayed or damaged parts, we’ll numb the tooth, and shape it to fit the crown. We will then take impressions of your prepared tooth and send them to our lab, where your custom crown will be created. In the meantime, we will make a temporary crown to wear. Once your permanent crown is ready, we will remove the temporary crown, and the new crown is permanently cemented. We’re happy once your crown feels comfortable and you’re good to go. Your tooth may be sensitive immediately after the procedure.
Different Types of Dental Crowns and Benefits
At Cedar Springs Dental, we offer a range of dental crown options to fit your needs and preferences. Crowns can be made differently, depending on the patient’s needs and where in the mouth they are needed. Here are some of the types of crowns and their benefits:
- Porcelain Crowns: Crowns made of porcelain are designed to blend in seamlessly with your teeth, providing a natural-looking and durable solution.
- Gold Crowns: Gold crowns are extremely durable and long lasting, making them a great choice for back teeth that bear the brunt of chewing and biting forces.
- Zirconia Crowns: Zirconia crowns are made of a strong and durable ceramic material that is both biocompatible and aesthetically pleasing.
No matter which type of crown you need, you can enjoy benefits such as improved function, appearance, and durability. Contact our Helotes dental office to schedule an appointment with Dr. Ho for an exam and consultation for dental crowns today!
Here are some of the reasons you may need a dental crown:
- Damaged Teeth: If you have a tooth that is broken or fractured, a dental crown can help restore its strength and function. Our team will carefully assess your tooth and recommend the best course of action, which may include a dental crown.
- Tooth Decay: If you have a tooth that is severely decayed, a dental crown may be necessary to restore its function and prevent further damage. Our skilled dentist will remove the decayed portion of the tooth and place a custom-made crown over it to protect it from further decay.
- Cosmetic Benefits: Dental crowns are a good choice to improve the appearance of your smile by covering up discolored, misshapen, or otherwise unsightly teeth. We offer a range of materials and shades to ensure that your crown blends seamlessly with your teeth.
- Large or Fractured Fillings: If you have a large filling or a filling that has fractured, a dental crown may be necessary to restore the tooth’s strength and prevent further damage. Our team will carefully assess your situation and recommend the best course of action.
- Root Canal: If you have had a root canal procedure, a dental crown may be necessary to protect the treated tooth and restore its function. Our dentist Dr. Ho will assess your situation and recommend the best course of action.
Aftercare for Dental Crowns
At Cedar Springs Dental in Helotes TX, we believe that proper aftercare is essential for maintaining the health and longevity of your dental crowns. Here are some tips for taking care of your new crowns:
- Brushing Your Teeth and Floss Regularly: Just like your natural teeth, your dental crowns require regular brushing and flossing to keep them clean and healthy. Be sure to brush at least twice a day and floss at least once a day, paying extra attention to the areas around your crown.
- Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods: While dental crowns are designed to be durable, they can still be damaged by hard or sticky foods. To prevent damage to your crown, avoid chewing on ice, hard candy, or other hard objects, and avoid sticky foods like caramel or taffy.
- Wear a Mouthguard: If you play contact sports or grind your teeth at night, wearing a mouthguard can help protect your dental crowns from damage. Our team can help you select the right type of mouthguard for your needs.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining the health of your dental crowns and identifying any potential issues early on. We recommend visiting our office every six months for a cleaning and exam.
By following these tips and practicing good oral hygiene, you can help ensure that your dental crowns last for many years to come. If you have any questions about caring for your new crowns, don’t hesitate to contact our team at Cedar Springs Dental in Helotes TX.
Ready to Restore Your Smile?
At Cedar Springs Dental in Helotes TX, we are dedicated to providing our patients with high-quality dental care and personalized attention. If you’re ready to restore your smile with a dental crown, we’re here to help.
Don’t let a damaged or decayed tooth hold you back any longer. Dr. An Ho and our team are ready to help you restore your smile with a dental crown. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a healthier, happier smile!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Steps Are Involved in Preparing a Tooth for a Crown?
Preparing a tooth for a dental crown involves several important steps to ensure the crown fits properly and functions correctly. The first step is to take X-rays and impressions of the tooth to receive the crown. The dentist will then shape the tooth to make room for the crown and may need to fill any cavities or perform a root canal if necessary. A temporary crown is then placed on the tooth to protect it while the permanent crown is being fabricated. The type of crown needed will depend on the location of the tooth and the materials used can vary from porcelain to metal. The permanent crown will be made to precisely fit the tooth and ensure proper biting and chewing. Before it is cemented in place, the dentist will make sure that the crown fits and feels comfortable. It is important to note that while the dental crown will affect the appearance of the tooth, it will not affect its function. Once everything is checked and approved, the permanent crown will be cemented onto the tooth. If the crown needs to be sent to a dental lab, the patient may need to return for a second appointment once the crown is ready.
How Should I Care for My Temporary Dental Crown?
Taking good care of your temporary dental crown is an essential part of the overall dental care process. This temporary crown is placed on the tooth after the preparation for the permanent crown. It is important to treat the temporary crown as carefully as the permanent crown to ensure its longevity. Avoid hard or chewy food items that may put pressure on the temporary crown. Be cautious while brushing around the crown and use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Dental floss around the tooth should be done carefully to avoid dislodging the temporary crown. If the temporary crown falls out, contact your dentist immediately to avoid further damage or sensitivity to the exposed tooth. Once the permanent crown is ready, your dentist will remove the temporary crown to place the permanent crown.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
Dental crowns can be a good choice to greatly improve the appearance and functionality of a damaged or decayed tooth. Many people wonder how long dental crowns last. The answer depends on several factors, such as the material used to make the crown and the patient’s oral hygiene habits. Dental crowns last an average of 5-15 years. However, some crowns can last up to 25 years with proper care. Zirconia crowns and gold crowns tend to last longer than porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns. It is essential to practice good oral hygiene and visit the dentist regularly to maintain the longevity of dental crowns. Some dental insurance plans may cover the cost of dental crowns, but it is always best to check with your insurance provider beforehand.
When do dental crowns need to be replaced?
Dental crowns are strong and long-lasting tooth restorations that can last for many years. However, there are several reasons why they may need to be replaced. When the crown feels loose the most common reason for crown replacement is decay or damage to the underlying tooth structure. Other factors that may require crown replacement include wear and tear due to grinding or clenching of teeth, a poorly fitting crown that causes gum disease or discomfort, and changes in the bite or alignment of the teeth. Additionally, if a crown is more than 10-15 years old, it may need to be replaced due to wear and tear. Regular check-ups with your dentist can help detect any issues with your dental crowns early on and prevent the need for extensive treatment or replacement.
Will dental crowns look natural?
Dental crowns are customized dental restorations that fit over a damaged or decayed tooth to rebuild its shape and functioning. One of the biggest concerns patients have when considering dental crowns is whether they will look natural or artificial. The good news is that modern dental technology and materials used in crafting dental crowns today are designed to mimic the shape, color, and translucency of teeth, ensuring they blend seamlessly with the rest of your teeth. Dental crowns provide a natural-looking that only you and your dentist need to know that you have them. Furthermore, dental professionals, today will match up the crown to your tooth color, ensuring that it won’t stand out. With good oral care, your dental crown will last for many years and look just like your teeth.
Can dental crowns fall out?
Dental crowns are designed to be a long-lasting solution for damaged or weakened teeth. However, despite their durability, dental crowns can also fall out. This can occur due to several factors, such as decay or damage to the tooth underneath, poor fitting or cementation of the crown, or trauma to the mouth. If a dental crown falls out, it is important to see a dentist as soon as possible, as leaving the tooth exposed can cause sensitivity, pain, and the risk of further damage. In some cases, the crown can be re-cemented back in place, but in others, a new crown may need to be fabricated. To avoid dental crowns from falling out, it is important to maintain good oral health and regular dental check-ups to detect any potential problems early on.
