Dental Crowns in Colorado Springs
Welcome to Powers Dental Group.
Trina G.
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that we place over your damaged or decayed tooth. These are typically needed when tooth decay has surpassed the need for a dental filling. The crown we provide at Powers Dental Group is designed to cover the entire tooth, restoring its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Dental crowns can be made from different materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of materials. The choice of material will depend on factors such as the tooth’s location, the damage’s extent, and our patient’s preferences. Don’t hesitate to call our team if you want to protect your tooth from decay or damage with a crown.
Crowns are ideal for teeth that:
- Have been weakened by tooth decay
- Cannot hold a filling
- Have undergone a root canal procedure
What are the Top Benefits of Dental Crowns?
Here are a few reasons why patients visit our office for custom-made crowns.
Protection: Dental crowns protect weak, damaged, or decayed teeth from further damage. They cover the entire tooth and provide a strong barrier against bacteria and other harmful substances.
Restoration: Crowns restore the function and appearance of damaged or decayed teeth. They can help improve the ability to chew and speak properly and enhance the smile’s appearance.
Durability: They are durable and long-lasting, made to withstand the normal wear and tear of daily use. The crowns we provide to patients can be used for many years with proper care and maintenance.
Versatility: Dental crowns can be used for various dental problems, including tooth decay, cracks, chips, and discoloration. They can also hold a dental bridge in place or cover a dental implant.
Comfort: Crowns are custom-made to fit each patient’s tooth, ensuring a comfortable and snug fit. They are designed to feel and function like a natural tooth, providing optimal comfort and function.
Aftercare Instructions If Getting a Dental Crown
Caring for dental crowns is essential to ensure their longevity and maintain optimal oral health. Here are a few tips for caring for dental crowns:
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash to prevent plaque buildup, decay, and gum disease.
- Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods: Don’t put pressure on your tooth while chewing them, as they can damage the crown. This includes ice, hard candy, and popcorn.
- Wear a Mouthguard: If you grind or clench your teeth, wear a mouthguard at night to protect the crown from damage.
- Regular Dental Checkups: Visit our Colorado Springs dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. We can check the crown for any signs of damage or decay and make necessary adjustments.
- Be Careful When Flossing: When flossing around the crown, be gentle and avoid pulling the floss too hard, as this can dislodge the crown.
- Address Issues Promptly: If you experience pain, sensitivity, or discomfort around the crown, visit our office immediately. These can be signs of a problem that needs to be addressed promptly.
By following these tips and practicing good oral hygiene, you can ensure your dental crown’s longevity and optimal function.
Schedule a Visit to Our Office for Crowns to Protect Teeth
Dental crowns play an essential role in maintaining and restoring dental health and function, providing patients with a strong and long-lasting solution to a variety of dental problems. Powers Dental Group specializes in all areas, from conducting dental exams to preparing crowns for your teeth. Get in touch with our team for optimal dental care with crowns.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a dental crown and why is it needed?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers a damaged, cracked, or weakened tooth to restore its shape, strength, and function. Crowns protect the remaining natural tooth structure when a filling isn’t sufficient, and they help prevent further damage or fracture. They can also improve appearance, covering misshapen or severely discolored teeth. Crowns are commonly used after root canal therapy, large cavity restorations, or to support a dental bridge. Because they encase the entire visible part of the tooth, crowns provide durability and stability for everyday chewing and biting.
How long do dental crowns last?
The lifespan of a dental crown varies depending on factors like oral hygiene habits, diet, and the type of material used. On average, crowns can last 10 to 15 years or longer with proper care. Porcelain and ceramic crowns provide a natural look and can be very durable, while metal or porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns may offer even greater strength in high-pressure chewing areas. Regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental checkups help maintain the integrity of the crown and surrounding gums, ensuring long-lasting performance.
What materials are dental crowns made from?
Dental crowns can be made from several materials depending on function and appearance needs. Porcelain and ceramic crowns are popular because they closely mimic the translucency and color of natural teeth. Porcelain fused to metal combines strength with a natural look. Metal crowns, such as gold or alloy types, are extremely durable and often used on back teeth where chewing forces are greatest. Your dentist will recommend the best material based on where the crown is placed, your bite, and aesthetic preferences.
Is getting a dental crown painful?
Receiving a dental crown should not be painful because the tooth is numbed with local anesthesia before the procedure begins. Most patients experience minimal discomfort during treatment. After the crown is placed, some sensitivity or mild soreness can occur as the tooth and gums settle, but this typically resolves within a few days. If significant discomfort persists, the dental team can evaluate and provide recommendations for relief. Many people find the process comfortable and appreciate the improved function and appearance once healing is complete.
How long does the dental crown process take?
Traditionally, dental crown treatment requires two appointments: one to prepare the tooth, take impressions, and place a temporary crown, and a second visit to fit the permanent crown. In some offices, advanced technology like same-day CAD/CAM systems can create and place a custom crown in a single visit. This reduces total treatment time and eliminates the need for a temporary restoration. Regardless of approach, precision is critical to ensure a proper fit, comfortable bite, and natural look that blends with surrounding teeth.
Can a crown be placed after a root canal?
Yes, placing a crown after root canal therapy is a common practice. Root canal treatment removes infected tissue from inside a tooth, leaving it clean but often more brittle. A crown restores strength and protects the treated tooth from fracture or further damage. Without a crown, a root-canal-treated tooth is more susceptible to breaking under chewing forces. A properly fitted crown helps maintain oral function, prevents reinfection, and allows the tooth to last longer.
How do I care for a tooth with a crown?
Caring for a crowned tooth is similar to caring for natural teeth. Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to remove plaque around the crown and gumline. Avoid chewing very hard objects, ice, or sticky candies that could loosen or damage the crown. Regular dental checkups help ensure the crown and surrounding tissues remain healthy. If you notice rough edges, sensitivity, or loosening, prompt evaluation helps prevent more significant issues.
Will dental insurance cover crowns?
Many dental insurance plans provide partial coverage for crowns, especially when they are needed for restorative purposes such as repairing a broken or decayed tooth. Coverage levels vary based on your specific plan, frequency limitations, and whether the crown is considered medically necessary or purely cosmetic. It’s important to review benefits or speak with your insurance coordinator to understand your coverage, out-of-pocket costs, and any waiting periods. This helps you plan treatment with financial clarity.
Can crowns improve the appearance of a tooth?
Yes, dental crowns not only restore function but also enhance the appearance of a tooth. Porcelain and ceramic crowns are color-matched to your surrounding teeth, providing a natural, seamless look. Crowns can correct shape, size, and color irregularities that detract from your smile. For teeth that are worn, chipped, or discolored beyond what whitening can fix, crowns offer an aesthetic solution while also strengthening the tooth.
How do I know if I need a dental crown?
You may need a crown if you have a large cavity, cracked or fractured tooth, significant wear, or if tooth structure is compromised after root canal therapy. Symptoms like sensitivity to pressure or temperature, discomfort when chewing, or visible damage are common indicators. A dentist evaluates your tooth and may take X-rays to determine if a crown is the best treatment option. Crowns are recommended when less invasive restorations like fillings are not sufficient to protect the tooth’s long-term health.