Dental Crowns in Greenwood
Crowns are covers for teeth that are cracked or damaged due to more intense level of decay. If a tooth is too severely damaged to be fixed by a filling, a crown can be used to repair the tooth and protect it from future damage.
Are crowns the same as veneers?
While crowns and veneers are similar in that they can both be used to cover misshapen or badly discolored teeth in order to improve their appearance, that is where they’re similarity ends. A crown is thicker than a wafer-thin veneer and covers the tooth in its entirety, while a veneer is bonded to the front of a tooth.
What are crowns made of?
Our team works with mostly white crowns which are made of white zirconia. White zirconia dental crowns are metal-free and aesthetically-preferred alternative to stainless steel crowns because they look just like your natural teeth. Zirconia is the most durable material used in dentistry today, making white crowns incredibly strong. However, if you prefer to have your crown made from gold, the office will be happy to do that for you, as well. In fact, the crowns our dentists use won’t chip, become discolored, or wear down over time.
How long do crowns last?
The average crown will last about 15 years but a crown that is taken care of properly can last almost double that timeframe. It’s important for you to have your crowns examined consistently so we can verify that it is maintaining its structure and proper function. The crown itself might appear to be in good shape, but there’s no way for you to see how the tooth underneath is doing without a proper examination by a dentist.
How can I increase the life of my crown?
It’s important to maintain good oral hygiene to help your crown last longer and to prevent cavities from forming in the tooth underneath.
How is the crown secured on the tooth?
Though procedures can vary by person, the first step is to slightly file the tooth down to make room for the crown to fit over top of it. Getting a crown will likely take two visits to our office. First, for a temporary crown, and second, for the permanent crown. Just like veneers, an impression of the tooth receiving the crown will need to be made for a perfect fit.
If you would like to schedule a consultation to learn more about how dental crowns can restore the look and function of your teeth, please contact our office at 317 885-7760
