Even though tooth enamel is the hardest part of your body, teeth can still get damaged. Whether it’s from tooth decay or an injury, your teeth might need extra help to stay healthy.
Luckily, Dr. Erika Whitehouse and Dr. Meghan Kilkelly offer custom-made and affordable dental crowns to protect teeth that are damaged. If you think a dental crown might be the right treatment for you, call our office to set up a visit. We provide restorative dental treatments to patients in and around Austin, Texas.
Dental Crowns in Austin, TX
A dental crown is a custom-made “cap” that fits over the top of a damaged or weakened tooth. These crowns can be made from materials like ceramic or zirconia, which are both strong and look natural. Our dentists may recommend a dental crown if you have one or more of the following issues:
- A broken tooth that needs support
- A missing tooth being replaced by a dental implant
- A severely misshapen or discolored tooth
- A dental bridge that needs support from nearby teeth
- A tooth that needs protection after a root canal
- A large filling with serious decay
The Benefits of a Dental Crown
Getting a dental crown can improve the look and health of your teeth. Crowns are versatile and can solve both cosmetic and functional issues. Some of the benefits include:
- Comfortable Fit: Since the crown is made using a mold of your mouth, it fits perfectly and doesn’t feel out of place.
- Prevents Future Problems: A crown covers and protects a damaged tooth, preventing more serious issues and saving you from costly treatments later on.
- Natural Appearance: The crown is customized to match the color, size, and shape of your natural teeth, boosting your confidence.
- Long Lasting: Dental crowns made of strong, stain-resistant porcelain can last over 15 years with proper care.
- Easy to Care For: Once you adjust to your crown, it feels just like a natural tooth. You don’t need any special care—just keep up with regular brushing and flossing.
The Dental Crown Process
Getting a dental crown is a simple process that usually takes a few visits. At your first appointment, the dentist will check your damaged tooth to see if a crown is the right solution. Then, we’ll explain the treatment plan to restore and protect your tooth.
If a crown is the best option, the dentist will start by removing the damaged part of your tooth and cleaning it. They will also shave off a small layer of enamel to make room for the crown, so it fits comfortably in your mouth.
Next, we’ll take impressions of your tooth and gums. These impressions help make sure the crown looks and feels like a natural tooth. We send the impressions to a local dental lab, where a technician will make a custom crown for you.
While waiting for your permanent crown, the dentist will place a temporary one to protect your tooth. At your next appointment, the dentist will place your custom-made crown on the damaged tooth. The crown will be colored to match your other teeth for a natural, seamless result.
Dental Crown FAQs
Do you have questions about dental crowns and how they work? Here are some common questions and answers to help you learn more.
Is the dental crown procedure painful?
We aim to make you as comfortable as possible during your crown procedure. The dentist will numb the area around your tooth before starting. The procedure is straightforward. While there may be mild discomfort during the drilling to remove decay, the benefits far outweigh any temporary discomfort.
How much does a dental crown cost?
The cost of a crown depends on the type of crown and the condition of your oral health. Before we start, we’ll go over the cost with you. We accept most dental insurance plans and offer payment options, including interest-free financing through CareCredit.
Can I replace a metal crown with a porcelain dental crown?
Yes, you can replace an old or damaged metal crown with a new porcelain crown. This simple procedure can greatly improve your smile’s appearance.
How long do dental crowns last?
Porcelain crowns usually last between 5 and 15 years, depending on how well you take care of your teeth. If you maintain good dental hygiene, your crowns could last a lifetime.
Are all crowns the same?
No, crowns can differ in materials, strength, and appearance. We use materials like porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, and composite resin. Porcelain crowns are popular for their natural look, making them great for front teeth. Metal crowns, though less attractive, are stronger and last longer, which makes them better for molars.
Do I need a crown after a root canal?
It depends on the tooth. If the tooth is still in good shape after a root canal, your dentist may just fill it. For front teeth, a crown might not be necessary. But if the tooth is a molar or premolar, your dentist will likely suggest a crown to add strength and protect it from damage.
Can I whiten dental crowns?
No, dentists can’t whiten crowns like natural teeth. Whitening treatments won’t affect crowns. We recommend whitening your natural teeth before getting a crown so the dentist can match the crown to your newly whitened teeth.
Can a dental crown fall off?
Yes, a crown can fall off if there’s tooth decay under it, if it wasn’t fitted properly, or if the adhesive fails. Keeping good oral hygiene and visiting the dentist regularly will help prevent this. If your crown does fall off, contact our dentists right away to have it reattached or replaced.
Can I get a crown if I grind my teeth?
Yes, people who grind their teeth (bruxism) can still get crowns. A crown can protect your tooth from damage caused by grinding. However, it’s important to choose a strong material like porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) or zirconia. Regular check-ups can help monitor the condition of your crowns.
Can a crown replace a single missing tooth?
A crown by itself can’t replace a missing tooth. However, it can be used as part of a dental implant or bridge. With an implant, the crown is placed on top of a titanium post inserted in your jaw. For a bridge, crowns are used to support the false tooth between two healthy teeth.
Our dentists can help decide the best option for you. To schedule your crown appointment, call us at 512-862-1463 or request an appointment online anytime.