How long do dental crowns last?

Generally, dental crowns can last anywhere from five to 15 years or even longer with proper care. The lifespan of your dental crown will depend on various factors such as the material used, oral hygiene routine, and the amount of wear and tear the crown is subjected to. Porcelain and ceramic crowns tend to have a longer lifespan than metal or resin-based crowns.

Is it painful to get a dental crown?

Getting a dental crown should not be painful as the procedure is usually performed with a local anesthetic. Some patients may experience some discomfort or sensitivity during or after the procedure. Your dentist can prescribe pain medication or recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to manage any discomfort.

Can a dental crown be placed in one day?

Yes, it’s possible to get a dental crown placed in one day using a technology called CEREC (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics). This technology allows the dentist to create and place a custom crown in a single dental visit. The dentist will take digital impressions of the tooth, design the crown using computer-aided design (CAD) software, and then use an in-office milling machine to fabricate the final crown.

Dental Crowns in Knoxville, TN

Restore Your Smile With Durable, Natural-Looking Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are a versatile solution for restoring damaged, decayed, or weakened teeth, giving you a healthy, confident smile. At our Knoxville, TN, dental office, we offer custom-made crowns tailored to your specific needs. Using advanced materials and technology, our Knoxville dentist ensures your crown blends seamlessly with your natural teeth.

Call us today at (865) 687-8670 to schedule your consultation and learn how dental crowns can enhance your oral health.

What Are Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns, also known as tooth caps, are custom-made restorations that cover the entire visible portion of a damaged tooth. Crowns restore the tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance, making them a cornerstone of restorative dentistry.

Common materials include porcelain, ceramic, zirconia, metal alloys, and porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM). Crowns can also be used in conjunction with dental implants or bridges to replace missing teeth or improve aesthetics.

When Is a Dental Crown Necessary?

Your dentist may recommend a crown for various reasons, including:

Protecting a Weak Tooth: Crowns shield teeth weakened by tooth decay, large dental fillings, or root canals from further damage.
Restoring a Broken Tooth: Crowns repair cracked, chipped, or worn-down teeth, restoring their function and appearance.
Covering a Dental Implant: After a dental implant is placed, a crown is added to complete the tooth replacement process.
Supporting a Dental Bridge: Crowns anchor bridges to fill gaps caused by missing teeth.
Cosmetic Enhancements: Crowns improve the appearance of misshapen, discolored, or poorly spaced teeth.

Signs You Need Dental Crowns

Not sure if a dental crown is the solution for your oral health needs? Here are some signs of needing a dental crown to look out for:

Persistent tooth pain or sensitivity to hot and cold.
A large filling that’s deteriorating or failing.
A broken tooth or one that’s severely worn down.
Post-root canal treatment to protect and strengthen the tooth.

Our dental team in Knoxville, TN, can evaluate your oral health and recommend the best course of action to restore your smile.

Benefits of Dental Crowns

Some of the benefits of dental crowns include:

Protection: Dental crowns safeguard damaged teeth from further decay or fractures.
Durability: High-quality materials guarantee crowns withstand daily chewing forces.
Natural Appearance: Modern crowns mimic the look of natural enamel, seamlessly blending with your smile.
Versatility: Crowns address a wide range of dental issues, from structural repairs to cosmetic enhancements.
Restoration: Restores normal chewing and speaking functions, improving oral health.

If you’re wondering how dental crowns may benefit you, contact our Knoxville dentist at (865) 687-8670 to schedule your next appointment!

Types of Dental Crowns

There are various dental crowns, providing each patient with the solution they need to restore their smile. Our Knoxville dentist will evaluate your options and recommend the best choice for your dental health.

Porcelain Crowns

Porcelain crowns are a popular choice for front teeth due to their natural appearance. These crowns mimic the translucency of enamel and can blend seamlessly with your existing teeth.

Metal Crowns

Metal crowns, including gold alloy and base metal alloys, are highly durable and resistant to wear. While they’re less common for visible teeth, they’re excellent for out-of-sight molars that endure significant biting pressure.

Porcelain-fused-to-Metal Crowns (PFM)

PFM crowns combine a metal base for strength with a porcelain overlay for aesthetics. They work well for both front and back teeth, offering durability and a natural look.

Zirconia Crowns

Zirconia crowns are strong, durable, and biocompatible. They’re ideal for restoring back teeth due to their ability to withstand heavy chewing forces.

Same-Day Crowns

Using advanced CEREC technology, same-day crowns, also known as CEREC crowns, eliminate the need for temporary crowns and multiple visits. Enjoy a fully restored tooth in just one appointment instead of waiting for the permanent crown to be fabricated in a dental lab!

The Dental Crown Procedure at Our Knoxville Dental Office

Our streamlined dental crown process provides comfort and precision:

Consultation and Planning

During your first visit, we assess the tooth and surrounding gum tissue, take digital impressions, and prepare the tooth structure for the crown. A temporary crown will protect your prepared tooth while your custom crown is crafted.

Permanent Crown Placement

On your second visit, we’ll replace the temporary crown with your custom permanent crown, creating a precise fit and natural appearance. The process is quick and comfortable and results in a beautifully restored tooth.

Aftercare for Dental Crowns

After your dental crown procedure, Dr. Patel will provide you with instructions on how to maintain your dental crown.

Maintain excellent oral hygiene by brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing regularly.
Avoid chewing hard foods, ice, or using your teeth to open objects.
Schedule regular dental check-ups to monitor your crown and surrounding teeth.
Address any signs of loose crown or discomfort promptly with your dentist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Generally, dental crowns can last anywhere from five to 15 years or even longer with proper care. The lifespan of your dental crown will depend on various factors, such as the material used, your oral hygiene routine, and the amount of wear and tear the crown is subjected to. Porcelain and ceramic crowns tend to have a longer lifespan than metal or resin-based crowns.

The dental crown procedure is performed under local anesthesia to ensure comfort. Some mild sensitivity or discomfort afterward is normal and typically resolves quickly. Your dentist can prescribe pain medication or recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to manage discomfort.

Generally, it takes two dental visits to complete the dental crown placement process. The time it takes to place a dental crown on a tooth can vary depending on the specific case and the dentist’s technique. Your dentist will provide a treatment timeline at your initial consultation.

Yes, using CEREC technology, same-day crowns are designed, milled, and placed in a single visit, eliminating the need for temporary crowns.

Discover if Dental Crowns Are Right for You

Whether you need to protect a weak tooth, restore a broken tooth, or enhance your smile’s aesthetics, dental crowns are a versatile solution. Call us today at (865) 687-8670 to schedule your appointment. We proudly serve Knoxville and nearby areas, including Amherst, Marble City, and West Knoxville, TN.