Dental Crowns in Kingsport

Don't let fractured teeth or decaying fillings stop you from smiling! Change the way you look with a dental crown.

What are Dental Crowns?

A crown (or cap) is a covering that encases the entire tooth surface restoring it to its original shape and size. A crown protects and strengthens tooth structure that cannot be restored with fillings or other types of restorations. It is permanently cemented over injured, discolored, or cracked teeth, restoring them to their original strength and look.

Although there are several types of crowns, porcelain crowns (tooth-colored crown) are the most popular. They are highly durable and will last many years, but like most dental restorations, they may eventually need to be replaced. With good oral hygiene, dental crowns can last around five to eight years, or sometimes even longer! Porcelain crowns are made to match the shape, size, and color of your teeth giving you a natural, long-lasting beautiful smile.

Reasons for Dental Crowns

There are a number of reasons why you might need a dental crown, either for restorative or cosmetic purposes. Some of those reasons include:

• Broken or fractured teeth

• Cosmetic enhancement

• Decayed teeth

• Fractured fillings

• Large fillings

• Tooth has a root canal

What Does Getting a Crown Involve?

A crown procedure usually requires two appointments. Your first appointment will include taking several highly accurate molds (or impressions) that will be used to create your custom crown. A mold will also be used to create a temporary crown which will stay on your tooth for approximately two weeks until your new crown is fabricated by a dental laboratory.

While the tooth is numb, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping the surface to properly fit the crown. Once these details are accomplished, your temporary crown will be placed with temporary cement and your bite will be checked to ensure you are biting properly.

At your second appointment, your temporary crown will be removed, the tooth will be cleaned, and your new crown will be carefully placed to ensure the spacing and bite are accurate. You will be given care instructions and encouraged to have regular dental visits to check your new crown.

What Are Crowns Made of?

Dental crowns can be made of a number of highly durable materials. Some of the more popular ones include:

• Porcelain or ceramic

• Resin

• Pressed Ceramic

• Metal

• Porcelain fused to metal

Dental Crown Problems

You may ask yourself, are there any issues or problems that can come up after you get your crown? As with any other dental procedure, you can possibly experience issues over time. While most aren’t a big deal, some may require a trip to the dentist.

• Allergic reaction- While this is extremely rare, anyone can have an allergic reaction when coming in contact with a foreign material. Some individuals may have an allergic reaction to the porcelain or metal in their crown.

• Discomfort or sensitivity- It’s normal to have some sensitivity or discomfort after getting a dental crown. Sensitive teeth toothpaste can sometimes help with this. If you are still experiencing discomfort when biting down after a week, contact your dentist. They may need to adjust the crown.

• Chipped or loose crown- Hard foods can cause your dental crown to chip, but small chips can usually be repaired. However, if you have large or several chips, your crown might need to be replaced. If your crown is loose, some of the cement holding your crown to your tooth probably has washed away. If you experience a loose crown, contact your dentist immediately. Trapped food can cause bacteria to grow under the crown, which can cause your tooth to decay.

• Crown falls off- This can sometimes happen if there is an improper fit or lack of cement. If your crown falls off, make a dental appointment right away. They will give you instructions on how to care for your tooth until you can get it put back on.

Kingsport Dental Crowns

If you have a decayed, damaged, or missing tooth, call Bateman Dentistry today! We will schedule an appointment as soon as possible so we can see if you are a candidate for dental crowns. Please contact us if you have any questions or to schedule an appointment. We look forward to helping you get a smile you will love!