Dental Crowns in Portland, TX

At Portland Dental, we specialize in offering top-quality dental crowns that restore the function and appearance of damaged teeth. A dental crown, commonly known as a “cap,” is designed to cover a defective tooth, giving it new life and ensuring its long-term health. Crowns are essential for protecting and strengthening your tooth structure, helping to extend the lifespan of your teeth.

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a custom-made restoration that encases the entire visible portion of a tooth above the gum line. This “cap” is designed to provide support and protection to a tooth that has been weakened by decay, injury, or extensive dental work. Crowns are used to:

• Protect a weakened tooth from further damage.
• Restore the function of a tooth that is broken or fractured.
• Enhance the appearance of a tooth that is discolored or misshapen.
• Support a tooth with a large filling or that has undergone root canal treatment.

Types of Dental Crowns

There are three main types of dental crowns, each suited to different needs and preferences:

1. All Porcelain Crowns:

• Description: Made entirely of porcelain, these crowns offer a tooth-colored finish on both the inside and outside. They are especially popular for front teeth due to their natural appearance.
• Advantages: Excellent for cosmetic purposes, as they match the color and translucency of natural teeth.
• Considerations: While aesthetically pleasing, porcelain crowns are less durable than other types and may be more prone to fractures. They are not recommended for back teeth, which require more strength due to higher chewing forces.

2. Porcelain Fused to Metal Crowns (PFM):

• Description: These crowns have a metal base covered by a porcelain exterior. They combine the strength of metal with the natural look of porcelain, making them suitable for both front and back teeth.
• Advantages: Strong and durable, offering a good balance of strength and appearance. They are ideal for posterior teeth that experience significant chewing forces.
• Considerations: The metal core provides strength, but the porcelain layer can sometimes chip, revealing the metal underneath. These crowns are generally used where both strength and aesthetics are needed.

3. Gold Crowns:

• Description: Made entirely of gold or a gold alloy, these crowns are known for their exceptional strength and durability.
• Advantages: Gold crowns are highly resistant to wear and fractures, making them ideal for back teeth that endure heavy chewing pressures. They are also a good choice for individuals who grind or clench their teeth.
• Considerations: While gold crowns offer the highest durability, they are less aesthetic compared to porcelain or PFM crowns and are usually chosen for teeth that are not visible.

Reasons for Getting Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are recommended for various reasons, including:

• Broken or Fractured Teeth: To restore the function and appearance of a tooth that has been damaged.
• Cosmetic Enhancement: To improve the look of a tooth that is discolored, misshapen, or has an irregular shape.
• Decayed Teeth: To cover and protect a tooth with extensive decay that cannot be effectively treated with a filling alone.
• Fractured Fillings: To replace large or compromised fillings that are no longer effective.
• Large Fillings: To provide additional support to a tooth with a significant filling.
• Root Canal Treatment: To protect and strengthen a tooth that has undergone a root canal procedure.

The Crown Procedure

The process of getting a dental crown typically involves two visits:

• First Visit: During the initial visit, the dentist will prepare your tooth by removing any decay and reshaping it to fit the crown. An impression of your tooth will be taken to create a custom crown that fits precisely. A temporary crown will be placed to protect your tooth while the permanent crown is being made.
• Second Visit: When the permanent crown is ready, you will return for the second appointment. The dentist will remove the temporary crown, place the permanent crown on your tooth, and make any necessary adjustments. The crown is then bonded to your tooth with a strong dental adhesive.

Caring for Your Dental Crowns

To ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your dental crowns, follow these care guidelines:

• Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss regularly to keep your crowns and surrounding teeth clean. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste.
• Avoid Hard Foods: Be cautious with hard or sticky foods that could potentially damage your crowns or the underlying tooth.
• Regular Dental Check-Ups: Schedule regular visits to Portland Dental for exams and cleanings to monitor the condition of your crowns and overall oral health.
• Address Issues Promptly: If you experience any discomfort or notice any issues with your crown, contact us immediately to prevent further damage and ensure proper repair.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)