Dental Crowns South Hadley

Give Your Damaged Tooth the Royal Treatment

The crown of your tooth, which is the part that’s visible above your gums, is subjected to an onslaught of attacks every day. From the pressure against other teeth when you chew, to acid attacks from oral bacteria, to protecting the sensitive innermost portions of your tooth, your crown has a tough job. This onslaught of encounters can sometimes compromise the crown. As a result, you may need a dental crown in order to restore your tooth back to normal. Our dentists can give your damaged tooth the royal treatment with a custom-made dental crown. Keep reading below to learn more about dental crowns in South Hadley and how they can benefit your smile and oral health.

Why Choose Newton Street Dental for Dental Crowns?

What Are Dental Crowns?

Do I Need a Dental Crown?

Benefits of Dental Crowns

Caring for Your New Dental Crown

Once your crown has been placed, you can treat it virtually the same as you would a normal tooth. That means habits that could harm your natural teeth, like chewing ice, biting your fingernails, or using your teeth to open packaging should be avoided. It’s also imperative that you follow a strict oral hygiene routine of daily brushing and flossing as well as attending dental cleanings at least twice a year. This prevents bacteria buildup underneath your crown that could compromise the restoration.

Dental Crown FAQs: Appearance, Durability & Care

Will my dental crown be noticeable?

At Newton Street Dental, we craft our dental crowns out of high-quality dental porcelain. This way, we can restore the function of your smile without taking away from its appearance. Dental porcelain is well-known for how much it resembles tooth enamel, and it’s resistant to stains and damage as well. What’s more, we can even match the shade of your dental crown to the color of your natural teeth. In the end, your dental crown will be practically indistinguishable from the rest of your smile.

Does getting a dental crown hurt?

We need to make sure there’s enough space for your crown to fit comfortably. Oftentimes, this means that we’ll need to remove a small amount of enamel from the weakened or damaged tooth. While this may sound daunting at first, rest assured that you have nothing to worry about. Before reshaping your tooth, we’ll numb the area with a local anesthetic to ensure you remain comfortable all throughout your treatment. There may be some slight tooth sensitivity for a few days after your dental crown is placed, but it should be mild and short-lived.

Can a crowned tooth get a cavity?

While dental crowns themselves are impervious to tooth decay, the weakened teeth they protect are not. Since a dental crown encapsulates the entire visible portion of a tooth, it can help protect it from further damage and decay. However, if plaque and bacteria are allowed to build up on the gums near the rim of the dental crown, they could potentially slip under its edge and attack the vulnerable tooth underneath. Thankfully, you can easily prevent this with great oral hygiene. Be sure to brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day, floss daily with high-quality waxed floss, and rinse with mouthwash regularly.

How long do dental crowns last?

On average, a dental crown will last about 15 years before needing to be replaced. However, bad habits like using tobacco products, neglecting your oral hygiene, and chewing on hard objects can dramatically shorten its lifespan. On the other hand, a few simple precautions can help you make the most out of your newly restored smile, like:

Thoroughly brushing and flossing your teeth (and dental crown) every day.
Wearing a custom-made nightguard if you grind your teeth in your sleep.
Refraining from chewing on hard objects like pen caps, ice, and your fingernails.
Visiting us twice a year for your routine dental checkups and cleanings.

Remember, teeth can’t heal themselves. If you need a dental crown, it’s best to get one right away to avoid serious future issues and permanent damage. To see if your smile could benefit from a dental crown, give us a call today!

Don’t Settle—Choose the Care You Deserve.

Schedule your first appointment today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best material to use for dental crowns?

The best material for dental crowns is porcelain, which Newton Street Dental specializes in. Porcelain is highly recommended because it mimics the natural appearance of your teeth while providing the durability needed to restore full function and aesthetics.

Can dental crowns stain?

Dental crowns are resistant to staining because they are made from high-quality porcelain. While they do not discolor like natural teeth, it is still important to maintain good oral hygiene to keep your smile bright and healthy.

What are the three types of crowns?

The three primary types of dental crowns are porcelain, porcelain-fused-to-metal, and all-metal. At Newton Street Dental, we specialize in custom-made porcelain crowns, which provide a natural, aesthetic appearance while effectively restoring your tooth's strength and overall function.

Are dental crowns silver?

Dental crowns are not necessarily silver; at Newton Street Dental, we prioritize aesthetics by offering custom-made porcelain crowns. These are carefully color-matched to your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless, beautiful, and discreet appearance for your smile.

How is a dental crown placed?

The process of placing a dental crown at Newton Street Dental involves preparing the tooth, taking precise impressions, and fitting a custom-made porcelain crown to restore your tooth's natural function, strength, and aesthetic appearance comfortably and durably.

How long do these dental crowns typically last?

The lifespan of dental crowns typically ranges from 5 to 15 years. With excellent oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups at Newton Street Dental, and avoiding habits like teeth grinding, your custom porcelain crown can last even longer.

What are the main benefits of porcelain crowns?

The main benefits of porcelain crowns are their ability to restore damaged teeth, improve oral function, and provide a natural, aesthetic appearance that seamlessly blends with your smile while offering long-lasting durability and protection.

How should I care for my dental crown?

Caring for your dental crown involves maintaining excellent oral hygiene by brushing twice daily, flossing regularly, and avoiding chewing hard foods. Routine check-ups at Newton Street Dental are also essential to ensure your crown remains durable and healthy.

Can I schedule a consultation for dental crowns?

You can certainly schedule a consultation for dental crowns at Newton Street Dental. We invite you to contact our office today to book an appointment, where our team will evaluate your needs and discuss restoring your smile.

Do dental crowns require special daily cleaning routines?

Dental crowns do not require special daily cleaning routines; you should continue brushing twice daily and flossing around the crown just like your natural teeth to maintain optimal oral hygiene and prevent decay at the gum line.

Types of Dental Crowns Available

Dental crowns come in various materials, each offering unique advantages depending on the patient's needs. The most common types include porcelain, ceramic, metal, and resin crowns. Porcelain crowns are favored for their natural appearance, while metal crowns provide exceptional durability, making them suitable for back teeth.

Choosing the right type of crown is essential for both aesthetic and functional purposes. For instance, porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns combine the strength of metal with the beauty of porcelain, making them a popular choice for those seeking a balance between durability and appearance. Understanding the differences can help patients make informed decisions regarding their dental restoration.

The Dental Crown Procedure: What to Expect

The dental crown procedure typically involves two visits to the dentist. During the first visit, the dentist will assess the tooth, take X-rays, and prepare it by reshaping it to fit the crown. An impression of the tooth is then taken to create a custom crown, which may take a couple of weeks to fabricate.

On the second visit, the dentist will place the crown over the prepared tooth, ensuring a proper fit and bite. This process may involve minor adjustments for comfort. Patients can expect to receive local anesthesia during the procedure to minimize discomfort, making the entire experience as smooth as possible.

Common Misconceptions About Dental Crowns

Many patients have misconceptions about dental crowns, such as believing they are only necessary for severely damaged teeth. However, crowns can also be used for cosmetic enhancements, such as covering discolored or misshapen teeth. They are a versatile solution for various dental issues.

Another common myth is that dental crowns are impervious to damage. While they are durable, crowns can still chip or crack under excessive force or neglect. Understanding these misconceptions can help patients maintain realistic expectations and take better care of their crowns to ensure longevity.

Cost of Dental Crowns and Insurance Coverage

The cost of dental crowns can vary widely based on the material used, the complexity of the case, and the geographic location of the dental practice. On average, patients can expect to pay between $800 and $3,000 per crown. It’s essential to discuss costs upfront with the dental office to avoid surprises.

Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of crowns, particularly when deemed medically necessary. Patients should check with their insurance provider to understand their coverage options and any out-of-pocket expenses they may incur. Financial plans and payment options are often available through dental offices to help manage costs.