Dental crowns are a restorative procedure in which a “cap” goes over an injured or decayed tooth to protect it from further damage and to restore your smile. Dr. Dennis is an expert in the latest technology for fast, natural-looking CEREC same-day crowns. The advanced CEREC crown technology spares you from wearing a temporary crown while you wait for your permanent one to be made.
Crowns Q & A
What are dental crowns?
Dental crowns are a restorative procedure in which a “cap” goes over an injured or decayed tooth to protect it from further damage and to restore your smile. Crowns sometimes go over dental implants to provide better function. A crown fits over a natural tooth to strengthen it, protect it from further decay, or hide discoloration and stains.
Why would I need a crown?
There are a variety of reasons you might need a dental crown. Dr. Dennis may recommend a crown if you have little or no tooth left for a filling after you’ve had a root canal, or to help support other dental work.
Because of their ability to extend the life of existing teeth for many years, crowns are often an excellent choice for restorative dental care. They make your teeth look and function better, and for optimum convenience, Dr. Dennis offers same-day CEREC crowns.
How are CEREC crowns different from traditional crowns?
CEREC, which stands for “CEramic REConstruction,” uses state-of-the-art dental technology to create a permanent crown in just one appointment. CEREC crowns are the most convenient, natural-looking, and long-lasting type of crown.
Traditional crowns often require two dental appointments. At the first appointment, the dentist has to prepare the tooth, fit it for a crown, then send the information to a lab to construct a permanent crown. You have to wear a temporary crown for a couple of weeks until your permanent crown is ready and return to the dentist to have the new one fitted.
With CEREC crowns, you no longer have to wait to have a crown made, and you won’t have to wear a temporary one, either. Dr. Dennis uses digital 3D imaging to create a ceramic crown that closely matches the shape, size, and color of the rest of your teeth. He can create the crown and place it in about an hour — no messy impressions or multiple dental visits needed.
How long do dental crowns last?
If taken care of properly, your crown can last you around 15 years. Certain habits such as eating ice, teeth grinding (bruxism), biting your nails, and using your teeth as a tool put you at risk of damaging, cracking or having the crown fall off entirely. If you have a crown and notice pain, increased sensitivity, or see that it fell out, call our office immediately.
How do I take care of my crown?
Luckily, dental crowns operate just like regular teeth. While there are no special practices, good oral hygiene is important. Brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes, and remember to floss. It is safe to floss around your cap.
What do I do if my dental crown falls off?
If your crown falls off, call Abington Center as soon as you can. If you can’t make it to our office right away, start by washing the crown gently and putting it in a sealed bag. You’ll need to bring it with you for your appointment. Since the existing tooth beneath your crown is exposed, you risk infection of the pulp or exposed nerves. Local pharmacies sell dental cement and dental wax, which can help keep your tooth safe temporarily. Make sure to avoid any hard foods, since the prepped tooth is not as strong as the crown. You may notice increased tooth sensitivity. If this happens, avoid any hot, cold, or spicy foods, which may agitate your tooth further.
Your new crown begins with a consultation. Call or schedule yours online today, and you can be on your way to a healthier, more beautiful smile in no time.
