If you're experiencing tooth pain or discomfort or have a damaged tooth, a dental crown may be the solution to restore your smile. A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that goes on top of a damaged tooth. Its purpose is to restore the tooth’s shape, size, and strength.
A dental crown is designed to last between 5 to 15 years. How you care for your teeth and the rate at which your teeth wear down will determine how long your dental crown will last.
The crown is cemented in place in order to ensure it is sturdy and safe. A dental crown will protect your teeth all the way down to the visible area around the gum line.
Dental crowns are most commonly used when you have dental decay that is so advanced that a filling is inadequate. Dental crowns are also used to strengthen worn-down or damaged teeth.
At Black Point Dental, we can handle all your restorative dentistry needs.
A dental crown may be necessary if you have one of the following dental issues:
- A large cavity that cannot be filled with a regular filling.
- A cracked or broken tooth.
- A tooth that has undergone a root canal.
- A misshapen or discolored tooth.
- A weakened tooth due to excessive wear and tear.
If you're experiencing any of the above issues, it's important to schedule an appointment with your dentist to determine if a dental crown is the best solution for you.
At our dental private practice, we offer two types of dental crowns that cater to your specific needs. Dr. Ferguson, our experienced dentist, will assess your dental condition and recommend the appropriate type of crown for your case.
The primary difference between the two types of crowns is the tooth area they cover.
Traditional Crowns
Traditional crowns provide full coverage restorations and are the most common option for restoring damaged teeth. They offer maximum support to the tooth and are ideal if a filling is not enough to treat dental decay.
Onlays and ¾ Crowns
On the other hand, onlays and 3/4 crowns do not cover the entire tooth, and they are suitable for patients with strong tooth structures worth preserving.
Rest assured that our team at Black Point Dental in Honolulu will help you choose the best dental crown for your needs, ensuring that your teeth remain healthy and functional.
The material used for your dental crown will depend on your specific dental needs and personal preferences. The most common materials used for dental crowns are ceramic, porcelain-fused-to-metal, gold alloy, and base metal alloy.
- Ceramic crowns: These crowns are made of ceramic or porcelain and are popular because they can be matched to the color of your natural teeth. They are also ideal for front teeth.
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns: These crowns are made of a metal base with a porcelain covering. They are solid and durable but may not match the color of your natural teeth as well as ceramic crowns.
- Gold alloy crowns: These crowns are made of a mixture of gold, copper, and other metals. They are strong and durable but less aesthetically pleasing than ceramic or porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns.
- Base metal alloy crowns: These crowns are made of non-noble metals that are highly resistant to corrosion and are also strong and durable. They are also ideal for those with metal allergies.
Ceramic and porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are popular because they can be matched to the color of your natural teeth. Gold and base metal alloy crowns are strong and durable but not as aesthetically pleasing.
Dr. Ferguson can help you determine the best material based on your specific dental needs.
If you're considering a dental crown, scheduling a consultation with Black Point Dental in Honolulu is important. During the consultation, our dentist will examine your teeth and determine if a dental crown is the best solution for your dental needs.
We will also discuss the different types of crowns available and help you determine which material is best for your specific needs. Additionally, we will discuss the dental crown procedure and answer any questions you may have.
The dental crown procedure typically takes place over two appointments. During the first appointment, your dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay or damage and shaping it to fit the crown. Your dentist will also take an impression of the tooth to create a custom-fit crown.
Once the impression is taken, a temporary crown will be placed on the tooth to protect it until the permanent crown is ready. The impression is then sent to a dental lab to create your custom crown.
During the second appointment, your dentist will replace the temporary crown with the permanent one. Your dentist will ensure that the crown fits properly and is comfortable.
After receiving a dental crown, it's important to take proper care of the crown to ensure its longevity. Here are a few aftercare tips:
- Brush and floss regularly to prevent decay from forming around the crown.
- Avoid hard or sticky foods that can damage the crown.
- Wear a mouthguard if you participate in contact sports to protect the crown from damage.
- Schedule regular dental check-ups to ensure the crown is still in good condition.
Dental crowns are an effective solution to restore damaged, discolored, or weakened teeth. If you're experiencing dental pain or discomfort, schedule a consultation with Black Point Dental to determine if a dental crown is the best solution for your dental needs.
We're committed to providing our patients with high-quality dental care at Black Point Dental in Honolulu, HI. Contact us today at (808) 955-5922 to schedule an appointment and learn more about how dental crowns can improve your smile.