Cracked or Broken Tooth? A Crown Can Help
Teeth endure pressure from chewing, grinding, or accidents. When the enamel breaks or wears down, the tooth becomes weak. The dentist uses a crown to rebuild the structure and shield the tooth from further damage.
What Crowns Do for You
A crown acts like a helmet for a compromised tooth. After removing damage or decay, the dentist places it over the visible portion of the tooth. Crowns restore strength, shape, and appearance while keeping the underlying tooth safe.
- Protect teeth after large fillings
- Strengthen teeth following root canals
- Repair cracked, chipped, or worn teeth
- Cover dental implants
- Improve the look of discolored or misshaped teeth
Crowns in Pulaski That Blend with Your Smile
We design each crown to match the surrounding teeth in size, shape, and color. The dentist uses precise measurements and impressions to create a seamless fit. We aim for a natural result, whether the crown goes on a front or back tooth.
Types of Crowns We Use
Other materials are required in different situations. The dentist chooses the type of crown based on the tooth’s location, bite, and aesthetic goals. Common materials include porcelain, ceramic, zirconia, and metal.
Step-by-Step: What to Expect from the Crown Process
The dentist starts by examining the tooth and taking digital X-rays. If the tooth needs reshaping or decay removal, the dentist handles that first. Then we make impressions, place a temporary crown, and send the mold to the lab for fabrication.
The dentist removes the temporary at the second visit, checks the fit, and bonds the permanent crown in place. You leave with a restored tooth that looks and feels natural.
How to Tell You Might Need a Crown
Some symptoms point to the need for a dental crown. The dentist checks for these signs during your exam and explains why a crown may be the best option.
- Tooth pain when biting
- Sensitivity to hot or cold
- Visible cracks or chips
- Broken or worn-down fillings
- A tooth that looks smaller or darker than the rest
Crowns vs Fillings: What’s the Difference?
The dentist chooses a filling for smaller cavities. Fillings sit inside the tooth, filling the space where decay once lived. A crown, however, surrounds the entire tooth and provides full coverage when damage affects the tooth’s structure.
Crowns and Implants: The Perfect Pair
If you lose a tooth and choose an implant, the dentist tops it with a crown for a complete restoration. The crown attaches to the implant post, giving you the look and function of a natural tooth. Patients with implants enjoy strong bites, easy cleaning, and long-term stability.
Keep Your Crown in Great Shape
The dentist recommends good oral hygiene and regular checkups to extend the life of your crown. With proper care, most crowns last 10 to 15 years or longer. You should avoid chewing ice, opening packages with your teeth, or grinding without a nightguard.
Children Sometimes Need Crowns Too
The dentist may recommend stainless steel or zirconia crowns for kids with large cavities or baby teeth weakened by trauma. These crowns protect the tooth until it naturally falls out. Crowns help maintain space and prevent pain or infection in young patients.
Crowns Can Also Boost Cosmetic Confidence
Some patients choose crowns to improve the look of one or more teeth. The dentist may use a crown to hide deep staining, reshape uneven teeth, or close gaps. With today’s materials, crowns can upgrade your smile while still looking natural.
Contact Us For a Well-Fitted Crown
The dentist uses precise techniques to ensure each crown fits comfortably and functions correctly. A well-sealed crown prevents bacteria from entering, reduces sensitivity, and protects the remaining tooth structure from fractures or wear.
Contact us for an appointment at Vibe Dental Group in Pulaski, Tennessee. Let Dr. Shannon and Dr. West show you the power of expertly placed crowns in Pulaski to protect your teeth and restore your smile.