What Are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a custom restoration that covers the visible portion of a damaged or weakened tooth. The crown is designed to fit over the prepared tooth and restore its shape, strength, and appearance.
Crowns may be recommended for teeth that have:
- Extensive decay
- Large or failing fillings
- Cracks or fractures
- Significant wear
- Structural damage
- Undergone root canal treatment
A crown can also be used as part of a dental implant restoration or other comprehensive treatment plan.
At White Smiles, we consider the condition of your tooth, your bite, and your cosmetic preferences when determining whether a crown is appropriate.
How Do Dental Crowns Restore Damaged Teeth?
Dental crowns protect the remaining natural tooth structure while restoring its function. During treatment, the tooth is carefully prepared so the crown can fit securely over it. An impression or digital scan is then used to create a restoration that matches the size, shape, and appearance needed for your smile.
Once the crown is placed, it can help you chew more comfortably and protect the underlying tooth from additional damage.
Because every patient has different needs, your dentist will explain the recommended procedure and what you can expect before treatment begins.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
With proper care, dental crowns can last for many years. Their lifespan depends on factors such as the material used, oral hygiene, bite forces, diet, and everyday habits.
You can help protect your crown by:
- Brushing twice a day
- Flossing regularly
- Visiting your dentist for routine examinations and cleanings
- Avoiding chewing extremely hard objects
- Wearing a nightguard, which is recommended for teeth grinding
A crown does not make the tooth completely immune to problems. The tooth underneath and the surrounding gums still require regular care.
What's the Difference Between Same-Day and Traditional Crowns?
Traditional
Traditional crowns
Typically multiple appointments
Traditional crown treatment typically involves multiple appointments. Your tooth is prepared during the first visit, and impressions are taken so the permanent crown can be created. A temporary crown may be placed while the final restoration is being made. You then return for placement of the permanent crown.
Same-day
Same-day CEREC crowns
Potentially a single appointment
Same-day dental crowns in Orem use digital technology and in-office crown fabrication to potentially complete the process in a single appointment for eligible patients.
Same-day CEREC crowns can offer several advantages, including:
- Fewer dental appointments
- Less time spent waiting for a permanent restoration
- No need for a traditional temporary crown in many cases
- Convenient treatment for busy schedules
- A digitally designed, custom restoration
Not every patient or tooth is a candidate for same-day treatment. Your dentist will evaluate your specific situation and determine which approach is appropriate.
What Are CEREC Same-Day Crowns?
CEREC technology allows our team to digitally scan a prepared tooth, design a custom restoration, and manufacture the crown in the dental office in a single visit. This streamlines treatment compared with sending impressions to an outside laboratory and waiting for a permanent crown to be made.
For qualifying patients, same-day dental crowns in Orem can provide an efficient way to restore a damaged tooth without requiring multiple appointments.
The process generally involves evaluating the tooth, preparing it for restoration, digitally scanning the area, designing the crown, creating the restoration, and placing it on the tooth.
- Evaluate the tooth
- Prepare it for restoration
- Digitally scan the area
- Design the crown
- Create the restoration
- Place it on the tooth
Are Dental Crowns Comfortable?
Modern crowns are designed to fit comfortably and function naturally. Your dentist will carefully check the restoration's fit and bite before completing treatment.
It is normal to experience some temporary sensitivity after crown treatment. If discomfort persists or your bite feels uneven, contact your dental office so the restoration can be evaluated.
Are Dental Crowns Right for Me?
A dental crown may be appropriate if your tooth has extensive damage but still has enough healthy structure to support a restoration. However, the right treatment depends on your individual circumstances.
During your consultation, your dentist may evaluate:
- The amount of remaining tooth structure
- The condition of your gums
- Your bite
- Existing restorations
- Any signs of infection
- Your cosmetic goals
In some cases, a filling, inlay, onlay, veneer, root canal, extraction, or another treatment may be more appropriate.
How Do You Care for a Dental Crown?
Caring for a crown is similar to caring for your natural teeth. Brush regularly with fluoride toothpaste and clean between your teeth every day. Continue routine dental visits so your dentist can monitor both the crown and the underlying tooth.
Avoid using your teeth to open packages or bite objects that could damage your restoration. If you grind or clench your teeth, ask your dentist whether a custom nightguard could help protect your smile.