Dental crowns are a versatile tool of restorative dentistry, and our dentists can use them for many purposes. Not only can these “caps” strengthen damaged or diseased teeth, but they can also improve a tooth’s aesthetics, shape, and alignment.
Dental crowns can be made of metal, composite resin, or porcelain depending on their placement, and damage to the tooth, and your preference. After you meet with Dr. Mark, Dr. Devin, or Dr. Chandler for an initial consultation, they can recommend the best material for your needs.
Most patients in the Georgetown area need dental crowns for one of the following reasons:
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To reinforce or protect a damaged tooth from becoming more damaged or fracturing
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To restore a fractured tooth
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To cover a large filling when there is insufficient healthy tooth left for another filling
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To attach a bridge to adjacent teeth
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To cover a dental implant, a discolored tooth, or a tooth that has undergone endodontic treatment (a root canal)
For many people suffering from damaged teeth, the best solutions to restore the look and function of their teeth are porcelain inlays or porcelain onlays.
Porcelain inlays and porcelain onlays are custom-made restorations that are used to repair damaged teeth. Porcelain inlays are similar to fillings because they are permanently bonded to the inside of the tooth to correct problems like cavities or old restorations that have been removed.
Porcelain onlays are used to correct teeth that have suffered more significant damage. Porcelain onlays are also custom- made to correct your unique dental problem, but they fit over the tooth more. Drs. Mark, Devin or Chandler will answer all your porcelain inlay and porcelain onlays questions during your initial consultation.
Yes! The type of crown your dentist in Georgetown, TX, recommends can vary based on the tooth being treated and your specific needs. Here are some common types of dental crowns created and placed at Aesthetic Dentistry of Georgetown by Drs. Mandy, Mark, and Devin:
- Porcelain fused to metal crowns. These crowns have a metal base covered with porcelain for a natural look. They’re strong and durable, making them a good choice for back teeth or for people who grind their teeth.
- All-porcelain or all-ceramic crowns. These crowns offer a more natural appearance and can be used for front or back teeth. They may not be as strong as porcelain fused to metal crowns, so they may not be ideal for people who grind their teeth.
- Gold crowns. These crowns are made entirely of gold or a gold alloy mixed with other metals. They’re strong and durable, making them a good choice for back teeth. The downside is that they’re not as aesthetically pleasing as porcelain or ceramic crowns.
Your dentist will work with you in determining the best type of crown for your individual needs. Don’t hesitate to ask any questions or express your concerns about the different options available with our team.
On average, dental crowns can last between five and fifteen years. However, this timeframe can vary depending on factors such as oral hygiene habits and the type of crown used. Practicing good oral care at home and visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings help to extend the life of your crown. Please note that sometimes a dental crown may need to be replaced or repaired due to damage or decay. Our dental team at Aesthetic Dentistry of Georgetown will monitor the condition of your crown during regular check-ups and let you know if it needs to be replaced.
Drs. Mandy, Mark, and Devin describe the dental bridge as a prosthetic device used to fill in gaps left by missing teeth. The bridge literally “bridges” the gap by attaching artificial teeth to surrounding healthy teeth or dental implants. Like crowns, bridges can be made of porcelain, ceramic, or metal materials. Our team may recommend a bridge if you are missing one or more teeth in a row. A dental bridge will help restore your ability to both chew and speak properly, as well as maintain the shape of your face and prevent remaining teeth from shifting out of their proper position.
Only your dentist in Georgetown, TX, can determine if a dental bridge is the best option for you. Our team at Aesthetic Dentistry of Georgetown may recommend a bridge if you’re missing one or more consecutive teeth and want to restore the function appearance of your smile.
Yes, there are other options for replacing missing teeth, such as dentures or dental implants. Your dentist can help you in weighing the pros and cons of each option and determine which is best for your individual needs. Each treatment plan has its own unique benefits and potential drawbacks, so take your time to carefully consider all of your options before making a final decision. In some cases, our Georgetown, TX, area dental team may recommend a combination of treatments to replace missing teeth. For example, Drs. Mandy, Mark, and Devin may suggest using a dental bridge to fill in the gap left by one or more missing teeth while also recommending dentures to replace multiple missing teeth on the opposite side of the mouth.
If you are located in the Georgetown, Texas area and you would like to learn about dental crowns, bridges, inlays or onlays, contact us today to schedule a complimentary cosmetic dentistry consultation.
