Dental Crowns

Dental Crowns

If you have weakened tooth enamel or a tooth that has been damaged or injured, you may be a good candidate for a dental crown. A dental crown is a cap placed over the top of your tooth to protect the enamel and restore its appearance. Dental crowns have many benefits and can protect vulnerable, damaged tooth enamel.

Your dentist in Tampa, FL, can help you decide if you’re a good candidate for dental crowns. The professionals at Elevate Smiles Dental provide dental crown installation services for patients who want to protect and restore their teeth.

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a cap placed over the tooth enamel to protect it. Dental crowns are used on teeth that have become chipped or cracked or on teeth that have undergone root canal therapy.

What Are Dental Crowns Made Of?

Dental crowns can be made from many materials including porcelain, resin, or metal. The material you choose for your dental crowns depends on your budget, whether you want a tooth-colored crown, and where the crown is located.

For example, many patients choose metal crowns for their back teeth because metal is extra durable and long-lasting. However, metal crowns don’t look natural so many patients will choose porcelain for front teeth.

Who Needs a Dental Crown?

If your tooth is chipped, damaged, unevenly worn, cracked, or misshapen, you may be a good candidate for a dental crown. If you have a tooth infection and need a root canal, your dentist will place a crown over the remaining tooth enamel after the root canal is complete.

Benefits of Dental Crowns

There are many benefits of dental crowns. Below are some reasons to consider dental crowns for cosmetic improvements and repair for your damaged tooth.

• Cosmetic improvements. If you have one or more damaged teeth and are interested in cosmetic dentistry in Tampa FL, your dentist may recommend dental crowns to restore the appearance of your teeth.
• Protect your tooth enamel. Dental crowns fit over the teeth and protect the enamel.
• Last a long time. Dental crowns can last many years if you maintain your teeth and oral hygiene. This is particularly true of metal crowns, which are especially long-lasting and durable.
• Looks like a real tooth. Your dentist will shape your dental crown like your natural teeth. If your dental crown is made from tooth-colored material, no one can tell the difference between your crown and the real tooth.

Dental Crowns FAQ

How long do dental crowns last?

Dental crowns made of porcelain can last a decade or more, while metal crowns can last 15 years or more. To ensure that your crowns will last a long time, avoid chewing anything that isn’t food (like ice).

How are dental crowns maintained?

Brush your dental crowns twice daily and follow the flossing instructions provided by your dentist. Use non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching the crown. See your dentist twice annually for checkups.

How are dental crowns installed?

Dental crowns are installed over two visits to the dentist. During the first visit, some enamel is removed to make room for the crown. Next, an impression of the tooth is created.

The dentist will install a temporary crown on your tooth while waiting for the lab to make the permanent crown. In the next visit, the dentist will remove the temporary crown and install a permanent crown instead.

Think You Need a Dental Crown? Contact Us

Do you need dental crowns in Tampa, FL? If so, contact your dentist at Elevate Smiles Dental. Call today to make an appointment.