At Livonia Dental, we believe that every smile tells a unique story. Our team is here to make sure that your smile shines brightly. If you’re seeking a solution to restore the strength, function, and beauty of your teeth, you’ve come to the right place.
As part of our restorative dentistry services, we offer various treatments to repair and enhance your smile. We are dedicated to providing top-quality dental care for each of our Livonia, MI, patients. One versatile tool we use to achieve this is the dental crown.
Getting Dental Crowns in Livonia, MI
Getting a dental crown requires a couple of visits to our office. First, we determine the tooth’s strength and health to determine if you require a root canal. If the tooth is weak or you’re missing a lot of your tooth, we may need to build it up slightly. Then, we prepare the tooth surface so that the crown can fit over it properly. Then, we take impressions for the lab to custom-make the crown.
We may give you a temporary restoration while waiting for the final restoration. Once it’s ready, we bring you back into our office to fit the final crown. Once you’re happy with how it fits, we’ll cement the crown to your tooth.
The Uses of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are one of the most versatile dental restorations. While they mainly treat restorative concerns, they also have cosmetic value.
Cosmetic Fixes
Professional teeth whitening is typically how we treat tooth discoloration. However, not all discoloration responds to this. Dental crowns can be any shade of white you desire and completely cover the tooth, so no discoloration shows.
This is also true for teeth that are misshapen or deformed. They may make you insecure and be something that you want to hide. They also have functional impacts. Each of your teeth is crucial in chewing food and speaking. The tongue interacts with your teeth to make specific sounds, while each tooth does a different job to break down your food. A dental crown is shaped to look like the rest of your normal teeth, covering the entire tooth.
Strengthening Teeth
One of the most common uses for a dental crown is to stabilize a tooth after a root canal. During a root canal, we remove infected pulp from inside the tooth. Though we refill it with a biocompatible material and seal it, it may not restore your full tooth function. A dental crown strengthens it while protecting your tooth’s sensitive parts from further bacteria or decay.
To get a traditional dental bridge, we use a tooth on either side of the span to support it, which puts a lot of pressure on these anchor teeth. These teeth break down faster and are more susceptible to decay than your other teeth. If we use a dental crown on these anchor teeth, the crown takes on the brunt of the pressure from the bridge, protecting the tooth structure.
Treating Severe Decay and Damage
Crowns are the last line of defense against extracting a tooth. When a large chunk of your tooth decays away, a simple filling isn’t enough to fix it. Fillings can only do so much. A crown fills in the part of the tooth that’s no longer there, protecting the tooth structure from further decay.
A significant tooth break requires immediate attention. It can expose the sensitive nerves and tissue in the middle of your tooth, causing pain whenever something comes into contact with it. If there are sharp edges from the break, it puts the tongue and other soft tissue in your mouth in danger. A crown protects the interior of the tooth and fills out the portion that’s broken off.
Patient Review
Dental Crowns FAQs
Dental crowns can treat almost any cosmetic or restorative dental concern. Learn more by reading the answers to these frequently asked questions.
How long does a dental crown last?
With proper care, a dental crown can last between 10 and 15 years. However, some crowns can last 20 years or more with excellent oral hygiene and regular dental checkups. The material of the crown and your dental habits, like grinding or biting on hard objects, affect longevity. Routine cleanings and avoiding bad habits can help extend the life of your crown.
What if my crown feels too high or uncomfortable?
You should contact us if your crown feels too tall, doesn’t fit comfortably, or affects your bite. Minor adjustments can often be made to improve the fit. An improper bite can lead to jaw pain or uneven wear, so fixing the issue promptly is important. Your comfort and bite alignment are key to a successful crown.
Is getting a dental crown painful?
Getting a crown is generally not painful because we will numb the area during the procedure. Afterward, you may experience some sensitivity or soreness for a few days, especially around the gums. Over-the-counter pain relievers usually help with any discomfort. If pain persists or worsens, it’s important to contact us.
Can a dental crown fall off?
Yes, although rare, a dental crown can come loose or fall off if the cement weakens or if there’s decay under the crown. If this happens, keep the crown safe and contact our office immediately. We can often re-cement it or recommend a replacement if necessary. It’s important not to try gluing it back yourself.
Will a dental crown look natural?
Yes, modern crowns are designed to match the color and shape of your natural teeth closely. Porcelain or ceramic crowns are especially lifelike and are often used on front teeth for a seamless appearance. We will work with you to choose the right shade and contour for the best cosmetic results. Most people won’t be able to tell you have a crown.
Can I eat normally with a dental crown?
Yes, once the crown is permanently placed and your mouth has adjusted, you can eat most foods as usual. However, it is best to avoid very hard, sticky, or chewy foods that might damage the crown. With proper care, you’ll regain full chewing function. Always use caution with foods that could crack or dislodge the crown.