A dental crown is a permanent restorative treatment that covers the tooth like a “cap” to provide protection and stability to teeth affected by damage or decay. Fully encasing a tooth, they essentially become the new outer layer and will sit just above the gum line.
At Infinity Dental of Fox Lake, Dr. Prendergast uses a variety of materials for dental crowns, but the most popular is a porcelain crown. Porcelain dental crowns are highly durable, stain-resistant, and very natural-looking.
Dental Crowns in Fox Lake, IL
Dr. Prendergast may suggest that you receive a dental crown for several reasons. The primary purpose of a tooth crown is to restore the function, appearance, and integrity of a damaged tooth. While we mostly use a crown for restorative purposes, we can also use it as part of a cosmetic smile makeover.
- Protect a tooth weakened by decay or damage
- Prevent chipped or broken teeth from breaking apart
- Restore teeth that are severely worn down
- Replace an existing restoration that covers more than half of the tooth
- Reinforce a tooth after root canal therapy
- Cover and support a tooth with a large dental filling when there isn’t enough remaining tooth structure
- Support a dental bridge
- Cover misshaped or severely discolored teeth
We may also suggest using a dental crown along with a dental implant to replace a missing tooth. While the dental implant serves as the replacement tooth root, the dental crown becomes the replacement tooth. Learn more about the benefits of dental implants.
Dr. Prendergast may also suggest using a dental crown for cosmetic purposes. With advances in dental technology, dental crowns look just like your natural teeth and will blend in with the rest of your smile. Since they encase the entire tooth, they have the ability to hide many cosmetic imperfections.
Process for Dental Crown in Fox Lake, IL
The process for dental crowns takes place in two-to-three office visits:
Examination: Dr. Prendergast will inspect your teeth and gums. After determining a crown is the best treatment option, he will inform you of the treatment plan, aimed at reaching both your health and cosmetic goals.
Preparation: The dentist will prepare the tooth for a crown by removing any old fillings or crowns, as well as the decay or damage. Using a dental drill, they will gently remove some of the outer surfaces of the tooth to create room for the crown. The dentist will then take an impression of the tooth as well as select a shade to match the natural teeth.
Temporary Crown: Typically, the dentist will place a temporary crown on the tooth while waiting on the permanent crown. Temporary crowns are usually made of resin and can be placed immediately to protect the tooth while the permanent one is being fabricated.
Final Crown: At your next appointment when the permanent crown has arrived, your dentist will remove the temporary crown and make sure your new crown fits properly. Once the dentist and the patient are happy with the fit, look, and position of the crown, it will be permanently bonded to the tooth and gently polished.
Dental Crown FAQs
Dental crowns are a standard restorative procedure used to enhance damaged teeth’ function and appearance. If you’re considering getting a dental crown or already have one, you might have several questions about the process, benefits, and maintenance. In our FAQ section, we will provide answers to frequently asked questions about dental crowns. Our goal is to offer clear and concise information to help you make informed decisions about your dental health.
Is it painful to have a crown put on your tooth?
No. The procedure includes a local anesthetic. The dentist will numb your mouth so that you do not feel pain during the process. Once the crown is in place and your mouth regains feeling, you should not be in pain. Contact us if you are in pain after a dental crown procedure.
How long do dental crowns last?
Dental crowns can last at least 15 years. Their lifetime can depend on the type of materials used (resin, porcelain, silver, gold) and your daily oral health routine.
What can you eat with a permanent crown?
With a permanent crown, you are able to eat as you usually do. You should follow the fundamental restrictions of avoiding very hard, sticky, or chewy foods. These types of food can damage the crown. You should avoid chewing on ice, nuts, caramel, etc. Crowns are durable, like natural teeth, and will crack and chip like your existing teeth.
Can the dentist repair a chip in my tooth crown?
Depending on the severity of the chip, you may need a new crown. Schedule an in-person consultation with our dentist before making any assumptions.
Will anyone be able to notice that I have a dental crown?
Most dental crowns are designed to blend seamlessly with your surrounding teeth. In most cases, people will never know you have a crown unless you tell them. Our dental office uses materials like porcelain or ceramic to create tooth caps. A porcelain or ceramic crown will mimic the color and translucency of natural teeth. We will also ensure that your custom crown matches the size, shape, and color of your surrounding teeth.
Can you whiten a dental crown?
Your dentist is not able to whiten porcelain crowns with traditional teeth whitening treatments. They can stain over time. However, their level of staining is usually less significant than that of natural teeth.
Can you get a dental crown without a root canal?
A root canal is not required to receive a dental crown. Following root canal treatment, we may recommend dental crowns for patients with weakened teeth. However, this does not mean a root canal is required before a dental crown. Patients with damaged teeth who do not have dental infections can receive dental crowns. Patients with dental implants or dental bridges can also receive dental crown treatment.
How do I care for my dental crown?
Properly caring for your dental crown involves maintaining good oral hygiene and adopting specific habits to ensure its longevity. Brush your twice daily using fluoride toothpaste and floss at least once daily to address built-up plaque in areas your toothbrush cannot reach. Avoid chewing hard foods or ice or using your teeth to open packages. These actions can easily damage the crown. Regular dental check-ups and professional teeth cleanings are vital for monitoring your crown’s condition and addressing any issues early on. By following these guidelines, you can extend the life of your dental crown and maintain optimal oral health.
What is the difference between a dental crown and a tooth filling?
A dental crown and a tooth filling are both restorative dental treatments; however, Dr. Prendergast uses them for different purposes and under certain circumstances. A dental crown is a cap that covers a damaged or decayed tooth. The cap will provide structural support and restore its shape, size, and function. We use dental crowns on teeth that have undergone significant damage or root canal treatment.
In contrast, we will use a dental filling to repair a smaller area of tooth decay or damage. The tooth filling process involves removing the decayed part of the tooth then filling that space in with a material, such as composite resin or amalgam. While both procedures aim to restore dental health, crowns offer more extensive coverage and protection when you compare them to dental fillings.
Schedule a Dental Exam & Consultation
If you’re considering replacing old fillings or think you may need a dental crown to fix a tooth affected by decay or damage, call Infinity Dental of Fox Lake for a consultation.