If you are missing one or more front teeth, dental crowns may be the best solution for you. Dental crowns are a restoration procedure that can replace missing teeth. They are made of porcelain and metal, and they look just like your natural teeth. Crowns can be used to restore broken, cracked, or damaged teeth. You can also use them to replace missing teeth. If you are considering dental crowns in Seattle, WA, call our office at Olympic View Dental today for a consultation.
What do dental crowns do?
Over time your teeth begin to weaken, leading to poor dental health and damaged or missing teeth. This is bad for your oral health and can also feel embarrassing. If your natural tooth structure is not what it used to be and your front teeth are suffering, a dental crown could be the solution. Here are some things a dental crown can do for you:
- Hold together fractured or broken teeth
- Protect and cover a weakened tooth
- Support and cover severely decayed teeth
- Gives the look of a natural tooth to teeth that a severely discolored
- Tooth restoration for severely broken or worn teeth
- Replace and restore multiple teeth.
Types of Dental Crowns
If you think crowns may be a good solution to your dental issues, ask your local dental team about what types of dental crowns might be right for you.
There are three different general types:
Full Porcelain
Porcelain crowns are the most common type of crowns available. They are durable, strong, stable, and provide the most natural look for replacing or covering teeth. Since they do not contain metal, this option is typically good for everyone.
Full Metal
Metal is strong and highly durable. Our dentist may recommend a metal crown for rear teeth where the forces of biting and chewing are most significant, as it will resist damage better than a traditional fillable cast that chips or breaks easily with daily use. An entirely metal option may not work for some people, as allergic reactions could occur. Gold crowns tend to offer a higher chance of compatibility and less chance of allergic reaction or discoloration of the gum line.
Porcelain Fused to Metal
Porcelain fused to metal offers the best of both worlds. They combine the strength of metal with the natural surface color of porcelain. The only disadvantage to this type of crown is that the dentist has to remove a majority of the original tooth to fit the metal and porcelain parts of the crown, which can cause discomfort during the procedure.
Dental Crown Procedure
Dental crowns are typically placed in two appointments and usually in conjunction with a root canal, a dental implant, or anchor dental bridges.
The first appointment in the dental crown procedure is for tooth preparation. The dentist will remove some of the enamel from your tooth so that the crown will fit correctly. The dentist will use a putty-like material to make an impression of your natural tooth so the crown can be appropriately placed over them. While your porcelain crown is being made, your dentist will give you a temporary crown. The temporary crown protects your tooth and gum until the permanent crown is ready to be placed.
The second appointment is for the permanent crown placement. The dentist will place the dental crown on your tooth or dental implant and cement it into place. During the follow-up appointment, your dentist will ensure you have a proper bite with the new customized crown. If this is an anchor for dental bridges, your dentist will make sure the dental crown is securely in place then attach the dental bridge.
You should continue proper oral hygiene practices, including routine brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist for regular dental care.
How long do dental crowns last?
Dental crowns usually last between five and ten years. However, they can last longer or shorter depending on how well you take care of them. You should brush your teeth twice a day, floss once a day, and see your dentist for regular dental checkups.
If you are missing one or more of your front teeth, dental crowns may be the best solution for you. Crowns can restore the functionality of teeth, improve the appearance of teeth, and protect teeth from further damage.
Do dental crowns really look like natural teeth?
Yes! Dental crowns are usually made of porcelain and metal, so they look just like your natural teeth. Crowns can be used to restore broken, cracked, or damaged teeth. They can also be used to replace missing teeth and will cover and protect the entire surface. They are great for fixing cosmetic imperfections and restoring your smile’s natural beauty.
What benefits will I see from porcelain crowns?
There are many benefits to dental crowns. Crowns can restore the functionality of teeth, improve the appearance of teeth, and protect teeth from further damage. They can give you back the confidence you may have been lacking due to a damaged tooth or discolored smile.
Renewed confidence can lead to many other benefits that can enhance your life. When you feel good about the way you look, you can spread that confidence to other areas of your life.
Where can I get dental crowns in Seattle, WA?
If you are located in the Seattle, WA area and looking for treatment options for your missing front teeth, check out Olympic View Dental. We provide general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and implant dentistry. Our goal is to provide you with the best dental experience beginning with your first visit.
If your smile is suffering from missing teeth or a decaying tooth structure, give our dental office a call and see how we can help. Dr. Chilton and our professional team are ready to meet you and answer any dental questions you may have. Give us a call at (206) 824-4700 to make your first appointment with us!