One of the most transformative treatments is dental crowns. In Burlington, NC, patients are turning to dental crowns to restore their smiles, improve function, and enjoy renewed confidence.
But what exactly are dental crowns, and why are they considered a game-changer in restorative dentistry? Let’s take a deeper look.
What are Dental Crowns and How Do They Improve Your Smile in Burlington, NC?
Dental crowns, often referred to as "caps," are custom-made restorations designed to cover the entire visible portion of a tooth. They are crafted from durable materials like porcelain, ceramic, zirconia, or porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) to replicate the look and strength of a natural tooth.
Here’s how dental crowns improve your smile:
-
Restores Tooth Structure and Function: Crowns rebuild teeth that are cracked, worn down, or weakened by decay, giving them back their full size, shape, and biting strength.
-
Aesthetic Enhancements: Modern crowns are expertly color-matched to blend seamlessly with your existing teeth. They’re designed to correct discoloration, improve shape, and create a uniform, balanced smile.
-
Protection for Vulnerable Teeth: After procedures like root canals, teeth often become brittle. Crowns act as a protective shield, preventing fractures and further damage.
-
Bridges the Gap in Dental Bridges: Crowns are used to anchor dental bridges, filling the space left by missing teeth and restoring a complete, functional arch.
-
Dental Implants Finishing Touch: For patients who’ve undergone dental implant surgery, a crown is placed over the implant to complete the restoration, mimicking a natural tooth in appearance and performance.
-
Speech and Chewing Improvement: Missing or damaged teeth can impair pronunciation and limit chewing efficiency. Crowns restore your ability to speak clearly and chew comfortably.
Burlington, NC dentists use advanced imaging and digital scanning technologies to design crowns with precise fit and lifelike aesthetics. The result is a natural-looking tooth restoration that not only revitalizes your smile but also strengthens your bite for years to come.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last In Burlington, NC and How Can I Maintain Them?
Dental crowns are designed to be a long-lasting solution, but their longevity depends on several factors—including the material used, oral hygiene habits, and lifestyle choices.
Average Lifespan of Dental Crowns:
-
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns: 10-15 years
-
All-Ceramic or All-Porcelain Crowns: 10-15 years
-
Zirconia Crowns: 15-20 years (highly durable and chip-resistant)
-
Gold Alloy Crowns: 20+ years (very durable but less aesthetic)
With proper care, many crowns in Burlington, NC exceed these averages, lasting 20 years or longer.
Essential Tips to Maintain Your Dental Crowns:
-
Practice Excellent Oral Hygiene: Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss carefully around the crown area to prevent plaque buildup at the gumline.
-
Avoid Hard Foods: Limit biting into hard candies, ice, or nutshells that could crack or chip the crown.
-
Night Guards for Bruxism: If you grind or clench your teeth at night, a custom night guard can protect your crown from excessive wear.
-
Regular Dental Check-ups: Bi-annual dental visits allow your dentist to monitor the crown’s condition, ensuring early detection of any issues.
-
Avoid Staining Habits: Reduce intake of coffee, red wine, and smoking to prevent discoloration of crowns, especially porcelain varieties.
-
Use Non-Abrasive Toothpaste: Some whitening pastes are too abrasive and can dull the surface of your crown over time.
Crowns are a significant investment in your oral health, and with Burlington's dental professionals providing advanced care, maintaining them is straightforward and rewarding.
Are Dental Crowns The Best Option For Improving a Damaged Tooth in Burlington, NC?
Dental crowns are among the most effective restorative solutions, but whether they are the “best” option depends on the extent of tooth damage and the patient’s specific needs.
When are Dental Crowns the Ideal Choice?
-
Severely Decayed or Broken Teeth: If a filling isn’t enough to restore structural integrity, a crown provides full coverage and protection.
-
Post-Root Canal Treatment: Teeth that have undergone root canal therapy are often weakened and need reinforcement with a crown.
-
Worn-Down Teeth from Grinding (Bruxism): Crowns restore the height and functionality of flattened teeth.
-
Severe Cosmetic Concerns: For teeth that are deeply stained, misshapen, or improperly aligned, crowns provide an immediate aesthetic transformation.
-
Support for Dental Bridges or Implants: Crowns are essential in anchoring bridges or completing implant restorations.
When Might Alternatives Be Considered?
-
Minor Chips or Cracks: Dental bonding or veneers might be a simpler and less invasive solution.
-
Small Cavities: A dental filling is sufficient if the decay is limited and hasn’t compromised tooth strength.
-
Gum Health Concerns: If a patient has severe gum disease, other periodontal treatments may be needed before placing a crown.
In Burlington, NC, dental professionals carefully evaluate each case using digital X-rays and intraoral scans to recommend the most suitable treatment. Often, when the tooth structure is compromised but the root is still healthy, crowns are the best path to restore both function and appearance.
What is the Process of Getting a Dental Crown in Burlington, NC and Is It Painful?
Many patients are concerned about the process of getting a crown, particularly about discomfort or pain. Rest assured, modern dentistry has made crown placements more efficient and comfortable than ever.
Here’s What You Can Expect During the Dental Crown Process:
1. Initial Consultation & Examination
Your dentist performs a thorough exam, possibly with digital X-rays or 3D imaging, to assess the tooth's health. Treatment options are discussed, and if a crown is recommended, you’ll review material choices based on your preferences and functional needs.
2. Tooth Preparation
The affected tooth is reshaped to make room for the crown. This involves removing a small portion of the enamel. Don’t worry because local anesthesia is used to numb the area, ensuring you feel no pain during the procedure. In cases of severe decay, the dentist may need to build up the tooth’s structure with a core filling material before crown placement.
3. Digital Impressions
Instead of uncomfortable putty molds, many Burlington dental offices now use digital scanners to capture precise 3D images of your teeth. This step ensures a perfect fit and natural appearance for your custom crown.
4. Temporary Crown Placement
While the permanent crown is being fabricated (which may take 1-2 weeks), a temporary crown is placed to protect the prepared tooth. The temporary crown is functional, though patients are advised to avoid sticky or hard foods during this period.
5. Permanent Crown Placement
Once your custom crown is ready, you’ll return for placement. The dentist will remove the temporary crown, clean the tooth, and check the fit and color of the new crown. After adjustments, the crown is permanently cemented into place. Your bite will be checked to ensure proper alignment and comfort.
Is It Painful?
The entire process is designed to be as comfortable as possible. Local anesthesia prevents pain during tooth preparation. After the procedure, mild sensitivity or discomfort might occur for a few days, but this can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Burlington dentists prioritize patient comfort and often use gentle techniques combined with advanced technology to minimize invasiveness and reduce healing times.
For patients with dental anxiety, some practices in Burlington also offer sedation dentistry options to ensure a stress-free experience.
Dental crowns are redefining what it means to restore a smile in Burlington, NC. With advancements in materials, techniques, and patient-centered care, crowns offer a durable, aesthetic, and highly functional solution for damaged teeth. Whether you're dealing with a cracked molar, a post-root canal tooth, or simply want to enhance your smile, dental crowns provide a reliable path to a healthier bite and renewed confidence.
Restore Your Smile with Expert Dental Crowns at Monahan Family and Cosmetic Dentistry
From cracked molars to post-root canal restorations, we provide personalized care tailored to your unique dental needs. We believe restoring your bite should be a comfortable and stress-free experience. That’s why our Burlington, NC office prioritizes patient comfort every step of the way.
Don’t let a damaged tooth impact your daily life. Discover how dental crowns can protect your teeth, improve your bite, and elevate your overall oral health. Schedule a consultation with Monahan Family and Cosmetic Dentistry today and take the first step toward a healthier, stronger smile.
