A damaged tooth can disrupt your routine, from enjoying meals to speaking with ease. Many people make small adjustments, such as chewing on one side or avoiding certain foods, to avoid discomfort. Over time, these changes can affect both oral health and confidence. Dental crowns in Springfield, Missouri help reinforce weakened teeth and restore the strength needed to move through each day more comfortably.
What Is a Dental Crown & When Is a Dental Crown Needed?
A dental crown is a custom cap that covers a damaged or weakened tooth. It restores the tooth's shape, size, and function while protecting the remaining natural structure. Dentists recommend crowns when a filling no longer supports the tooth or when a tooth has cracked, worn down, or undergone root canal treatment.
Crowns also improve the appearance of misshapen or severely discolored teeth. Patients with large cavities may need a crown to prevent further deterioration. In some cases, a dental implant is crowned to complete the restoration. Recommendations are based on the remaining structure and the tooth's daily function.
Types of Dental Crowns
There are several types of crowns available to suit different needs and budgets. Materials are chosen based on the tooth's location and use.
- Temporary crowns: Dentists place them to protect the tooth while a permanent crown is being made. They help maintain spacing and function in the short term.
- Permanent crowns: They offer long-term durability. Common materials include:
- Gold
- All-porcelain
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM)
- Zirconia
What to Expect During Your Dental Crown Procedure
The dental crown process takes one or two visits, depending on the type of crown. At the first visit, the dentist examines the tooth, removes damaged tooth structure, and reshapes it to fit the crown for a secure, natural result.
After preparation, the dentist takes impressions for the final crown, which is made in a lab or in-office. A temporary crown protects the tooth until the permanent one is ready.
At the second visit, the dentist removes the temporary crown and checks the permanent one. They adjust it as needed, then bond it in place.
Some sensitivity may occur, especially to hot or cold foods. Brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits help maintain your crown. With care, crowns can last for years.
Why Choose My Dentist for Dental Crowns in Springfield, Missouri?
At My Dentist, care focuses on restoring strength that feels natural in daily life. Each crown is crafted with attention to how your teeth meet, how you use them, and how you want your smile to look and feel. The result lets you eat, speak, and smile with ease from the moment it is placed.
Let's restore your smile's full strength. Call (417) 862-8300 today to schedule your visit. We're here whenever you're ready.
Dental Crowns FAQs
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that goes on top of a tooth that is broken, weak, or decayed. It protects teeth from additional damage and decay.
The cost of dental crowns can vary depending on the material used. During your consultation, your dentist will discuss the cost of treatment with you before scheduling your appointment.
Dental crowns can last 5 to 15 years or slightly longer, depending on how well you maintain your oral hygiene.
After completing the initial preparation for the tooth receiving the crown, your dentist will check that the crown is correctly shaped and colored, then use dental cement to place and bond it to the treated tooth.
Dental crowns can be made using various materials such as porcelain, ceramic, composite resin, zirconia, and mixed metal-alloy.