Have you accidentally injured or cracked one of your pearly whites? Do you have a severely decayed tooth? Whatever the case may be, you’ll want to repair the affected tooth as soon as possible. This way you can continue talking and eating without discomfort as well as avoid any complications or risk of further damage or infection. Fortunately, our team at Hyland Dental can rebuild a durable and natural-looking smile with dental crowns in Mankato. Feel free to give us a call if you wish to learn more about this treatment today!
A dental crown is a sturdy and tooth-colored cap that is designed to cover, protect, and strengthen a compromised tooth. Not only does this common restoration preserve it from future damage, but it can also improve its size and shape to create or more ideal appearance. The dental crown will be cemented over the entire top side of the natural tooth that is visible above the gum line. This may be required for patients that have a that is cracked, broken, or weakened due to decay. It can also be used to cosmetically enhance a tooth that is drastically stained or discolored. While dental crowns can be made of various materials like metal and porcelain, we typically make our restorations out of Emax and zirconia.
Once our team concludes that a dental crown is the best option for your situation, we can begin to prepare your tooth. We’ll first numb your mouth to ensure you’re comfortable throughout your procedure. We’ll then remove any decayed tissue, roughen up the surface, and remove a small portion of your enamel to make space for your restoration.
Impressions of your tooth will be taken to provide a blueprint for your dental crowns. Traditionally, these would be sent to a dental lab for fabrication. However, our team utilizes CEREC technology to create your crown in a single visit! Instead of needing to wear a temporary one for a few weeks, we can complete your same-day treatment under one roof to create a durable, natural-looking, and properly fitted dental crown.
This restorative treatment offers a variety of benefits. With a dental crown, you can expect to enjoy the following advantages for your smile:
Have you been told that you’re in need of a new dental crown? You may still have some unanswered questions about the procedure, so we’re here to help! Here are the answers to some of the most common questions we receive about dental crowns in Mankato. If you don’t see the information that you’ve been looking for below, don’t worry. Give us a call and we’d be happy to walk you through the treatment process so that you know what to expect.
Dental crowns aren’t permanent, but they are a long-term solution. On average, they can protect your tooth for anywhere from 5 to 15 years. When your dentist reshapes your tooth for a crown, this procedure is irreversible, as the enamel cannot grow back after it’s been removed. That tooth will always need a crown for protection going forward. That being said, crowns protect the underlying tooth from additional damage, helping the tooth to survive for much longer than it likely would have otherwise.
It is impossible for a crown itself to develop cavities, but the tooth underneath it still can. A crowned tooth has about the same risk of decay as an uncrowned tooth. Poor oral hygiene makes it possible for bacteria and plaque to form around the gumline where the tooth meets the crown. They can then travel underneath the crown and damage the underlying tooth. You can prevent cavities in crowned teeth by brushing, flossing, rinsing, and seeing your dentist for regular cleanings and checkups.
Just like when you get a filling, your dentist will numb the tooth they will be working on. While the procedure itself shouldn’t hurt, you may experience some sensitivity for the next few days, especially if you’ve also had a root canal. This can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. If discomfort worsens, give us a call.
Within the first few days of receiving your crown, it should start to feel increasingly natural. Crowns are made from durable materials that can stand up to everyday chewing forces just as easily as tooth enamel, so eating with your crown shouldn’t feel strange. The reason your dentist reshaped your tooth was to ensure that the crown would fit comfortably within your mouth. Additionally, every crown is customized based on impressions taken of your tooth. Ultimately, your crown shouldn’t feel awkward or even noticeable!