Dental Crowns
Plaistow, NH

Plaistow Dental Clinic, a cornerstone in Plaistow, NH, with over 30 years of dedication to smiles, is thrilled to shed light on dental crowns—both their marvels and their considerations.

As experts in the field, we’re passionate about educating our community so that they can make informed decisions about their dental health.

What Are Dental Crowns and Their Need?

Dental crowns are protective coverings that are cemented over damaged or decayed teeth. The purpose of these restorations is more than just cosmetic.

Dental crowns serve many purposes, including:

• Restore the tooth’s shape, size, and strength.
• Improve the tooth’s appearance.
• Protect a fragile tooth from breaking.
• Supporting parts of a cracked tooth.

Benefits of Dental Crowns

Crowns offer a range of benefits to individuals seeking dental restoration.

One notable advantage is their capacity to enhance appearance by effectively concealing discolored or misshapen teeth, resulting in a revitalized and pristine smile.

Beyond aesthetic improvements, crowns also contribute to the restoration of function. This restoration can lead to improved ease in activities such as eating and speaking as the integrity of the tooth structure is renewed.

Additionally, crowns are known for their durability, often lasting for many years, especially when subjected to proper care and maintenance.

This combination of aesthetic enhancement, functional restoration, and long-lasting durability underscores the advantages of crowns in the realm of dental treatments.

Do Dental Crowns Have Any Drawbacks?

Dental crowns, while beneficial, may (rarely) come with potential drawbacks to consider.

One concern involves potential risks associated with the procedure, including a slight chance of infection or allergic reactions, which is a consideration for any dental intervention.

Moreover, the cost of dental crowns can be a significant drawback, particularly if insurance coverage is lacking, as the expenses can accumulate.

Additionally, the maintenance of dental crowns is crucial, mirroring the care needed for natural teeth. Neglecting proper maintenance could lead to complications such as gum disease or even crown breakage, underscoring the importance of attentive oral hygiene when opting for this dental treatment.

How Dental Crowns Work

Dental crowns or caps are prosthetic devices designed to cover or encase a damaged, weakened, or cosmetically flawed tooth. They serve to restore the tooth’s strength, functionality, and appearance.

Here’s an overview of the dental crown placement process:

• Diagnosis and Assessment: Before the crown placement process begins, a dentist evaluates the condition of the tooth in question. If the tooth is extensively decayed, cracked, or misshapen, a crown might be recommended to provide the necessary restoration.
• Preparation: The dentist starts by preparing the tooth for the crown. This usually entails removing a portion of the tooth’s outer structure to create space for the crown to fit properly. The amount of tooth structure removed for a crown varies based on the crown type and the degree of damage to the existing tooth.
• Impression: Once the tooth is prepared, an impression of the tooth is taken. This impression serves as a model to create the custom crown. In some cases, digital scanning technology creates a 3D image of your tooth, eliminating the need for traditional impressions.
• Temporary Crown: While waiting for the lab to fabricate your permanent crown, a temporary crown is placed to protect and preserve the tooth’s function. Temporary crowns are usually made from acrylic or composite materials.
• Crown Fabrication: Skilled dental technicians use the impression to create a custom-made crown that mirrors your natural tooth’s shape, size, and color. The crown can be made from various materials, including ceramics, porcelain-fused-to-metal, gold, and zirconia. The choice of material depends on factors like aesthetic preferences, location in the mouth, and functional requirements.
• Permanent Crown Placement: Once the permanent crown is ready, we will skillfully remove your temporary crown and checks the fit and appearance of the new crown. If everything looks good, the crown is permanently cemented or bonded onto the prepared tooth using dental adhesives. The dentist ensures that the crown is aligned properly with the bite and surrounding teeth.
• Final Adjustments: After the crown is placed, the dentist might make some minor adjustments to ensure proper bite alignment and comfort. This step helps avoid potential issues that could arise from an uneven bite.

Proper daily oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, is essential to maintain the health and longevity of dental crowns.

Caring for your crowns includes:

• Bypass very hard or sticky foods which might dislodge or damage the crown.
• Maintain a regular brushing and flossing routine.
• Always schedule and attend follow-up appointments with your dentist.

Types of Dental Crowns

Crowns come in an array of materials, each with its set of pros and cons.

Metal Crowns:

• Advantages: Highly durable, less tooth removal.
• Disadvantages: Metallic color.
• Best for: Molars hidden from view.

Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns:

• Advantages: Natural-looking with strength.
• Disadvantages: Porcelain parts can chip or break.
• Best for: Front or back teeth.

Composite Crowns:

• Advantages: Less expensive.
• Disadvantages: Wear out sooner, more prone to fractures.
• Best for: Temporary solutions.

Ceramic Crowns:

• Advantages: Best natural color match, suitable for allergic patients.
• Disadvantages: Not as strong as metal or PFM crowns.
• Best for: Front teeth.

Are you interested in diving deeper? We have a dedicated page for Porcelain crowns to give you a closer look at this popular option.

Same-Day Dentistry: The Future of Dental Treatments

In a world where time is of the essence, same-day dentistry emerges as the superhero of dental treatments. This cutting-edge approach allows dental professionals to create and fit dental crowns within a single visit, merging convenience with technology.

How Does Same-Day Dentistry Work?

Rather than wait days or even weeks for a dental laboratory, same-day dentistry harnesses the power of:

• Digital Impressions: Say goodbye to the discomfort of traditional molds. Digital scans quickly capture precise tooth dimensions.
• Computer-Aided Design (CAD): These designs allow dentists to visualize the final crown, ensuring accuracy.
• Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM): Based on the CAD model, CAM directs the creation of the crown.
• Chairside Milling Machines: On-site machines sculpt your crown from a ceramic block in mere minutes!

Pros and Cons of Same-Day Dentistry

The concept of same-day dentistry comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

On the positive side, the benefits include enhanced convenience as there’s no requirement for multiple appointments, heightened efficiency with procedures that previously spanned weeks now condensed into a matter of hours, and improved accuracy due to the integration of digital technology, minimizing the potential for human error.

Patient comfort is also elevated with fewer visits and the absence of uncomfortable impressions.

Additionally, the quality of treatment is upheld through the application of modern technology, ensuring a precise and optimal fit for dental restorations.

However, there are potential drawbacks, notably the likelihood of increased costs associated with utilizing advanced technology for same-day procedures. While same-day dentistry offers remarkable efficiency, there may be limitations when it comes to addressing complex cases, as the approach might not always be suitable for intricate dental issues.

When is Same-Day Dentistry Suitable?

Perfect for simple restorations, urgent treatments, or single crown placements, same-day dentistry might be less appropriate for more intricate cases or where multiple crowns are required simultaneously.

Get a look at our dedicated CEREC page to learn more about same-day dentistry!

Potential Complications and Side Effects of Dental Crowns

Every dental procedure, while striving to be perfect, can come with its set of challenges:

• Sensitivity: It’s not uncommon for teeth to be more receptive to temperature fluctuations. Solutions like desensitizing toothpaste can be beneficial.
• Pain: Persistent discomfort may indicate issues like a misfit or an infection.
• Infection: Maintaining impeccable oral hygiene can keep infections at bay.
• Decay: Always clean around the crown; dental decay doesn’t discriminate!
• Loosening: Protect your investment. Avoid excessive pressure or stress on your crown.
• Chipping: Trauma or even hard foods can sometimes cause damage.
• Allergic Reaction: Always discuss any allergies with your dentist before choosing your crown material.

Cost of Dental Crowns

When contemplating this procedure, a comprehensive grasp of the financial implications associated with dental crowns is crucial. In the United States, a range of factors collectively contribute to determining their cost.

The type of crown chosen, whether composed of metal, porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM), ceramic, or composite, holds significant sway over the overall price.

Moreover, the location of the tooth within the mouth—whether it pertains to front teeth, molars, or premolars—can lead to variations in cost.

The experience and reputation of the dental provider performing the procedure also come into play, as established practitioners may command higher fees than those newer to the field.

Furthermore, the extent of insurance coverage matters, as certain dental insurance plans might partially offset the expense of crowns, while others may not provide coverage at all.

It’s important to consider that additional procedures, such as root canals or gum therapy, can contribute to a cost escalation if required alongside the crown.

By comprehending these multifaceted factors, individuals can better navigate the financial aspects of obtaining dental crowns.

You can manage the cost of the procedure:

• Comparison Shopping: Prices can vary by dentist and region. Get several quotes to ensure you’re getting a fair price.
• Dental Discounts: Some clinics offer promotions or discounts, especially for new patients or those without insurance.
• Payment Plans: Some dental offices offer financing options, allowing you to pay for your crown over time.
• Dental Schools: Consider getting your procedure done at a dental school, where supervised students provide services at a reduced rate.

Before making a decision, always ensure you’re not compromising on quality and expertise to save money. A well-done crown can serve you for many years, making it a worthy investment for oral health.

Alternatives to Dental Crowns: What Are Your Options?

Several alternatives to dental crowns are designed to address specific dental issues and provide cosmetic or functional improvements. Here are some common options:

Dental Veneers: Veneers are very thin shells made from porcelain or composite resin bonded to the teeth’ front surface. They are an alternative to crowns for cosmetic enhancement, especially for addressing issues like discoloration, minor chips, gaps, and slight misalignments. Veneers require less tooth preparation compared to crowns.

Dental Bonding: Dental bonding involves applying a tooth-colored composite resin directly to the tooth to improve its appearance. It’s a conservative option for addressing minor cosmetic concerns like chips, gaps, and discoloration. Bonding is less invasive and usually requires minimal tooth preparation.

Inlays and Onlays: Inlays and onlays are dental restorations used to repair moderately damaged teeth, particularly molars and premolars. They are made from materials like porcelain or composite resin and are custom-fitted to fill cavities or restore damaged areas while preserving more of the natural tooth structure compared to crowns.

Orthodontic Treatment: For misaligned teeth, orthodontic treatments like braces or clear aligners (e.g., Invisalign) can be an alternative to crowns. These treatments gradually reposition teeth to improve their alignment and appearance.

Teeth Whitening: If the primary concern is tooth discoloration, professional teeth whitening procedures can help brighten and whiten teeth without the need for restorations.

Dental Implants: When a tooth is missing or needs to be extracted, a dental implant can replace the missing tooth. Implants involve placing a prosthetic tooth root (implant) into the jawbone and attaching a crown or other restoration on top.

Tooth-Colored Fillings: Tooth-colored composite resin fillings are an alternative to traditional silver amalgam fillings. They are used to repair cavities and are aesthetically pleasing, blending in with the natural color of the tooth.

Reshaping and Contouring: Tooth reshaping and contouring can address minor cosmetic issues like uneven or pointed teeth. It involves removing small amounts of enamel to reshape the tooth.

Porcelain Inlays/Onlays: These are custom-made restorations that are used to repair damaged teeth while maintaining the natural appearance of the tooth. They are suitable for larger cavities or damaged areas.

The appropriate alternative to dental crowns depends on the specific dental issue, patient preferences, and the advice of a qualified dentist. Our dentist can help determine the most suitable treatment option based on individual circumstances.

How to Choose the Right Dental Crown for You

Selecting the right dental solution is more than just a cosmetic decision; it’s about health, functionality, and longevity. Consider:

• Personal Preferences: Do you prefer natural-looking solutions or prioritize durability?
• Oral Health Needs: The extent and type of damage can direct the right course of treatment.
• Budget Constraints: Some treatments might offer short-term savings but could be costlier in the long run.
• Aesthetic Goals: What’s your dream smile? Your aesthetic goals play a pivotal role.

Why Choose Plaistow Dental Clinic?

Drawing on over three decades of practical experience, Plaistow Dental Clinic stands as a beacon of dental proficiency, delivering not only a wealth of knowledge but also an unwavering commitment to reliability.

With a diverse array of dental solutions at our disposal, the clinic offers a comprehensive repertoire of treatments meticulously tailored to cater to your unique dental requirements.

This extensive experience translates into a steadfast assurance that the care and solutions you receive are rooted in proven expertise, ensuring your dental health is in capable hands.

Whether you require routine maintenance, cosmetic enhancements, or more complex procedures, Plaistow Dental Clinic’s established track record underscores our dedication to providing treatments that align precisely with your distinct needs, fostering an atmosphere of trust and well-being for every patient we serve.

What Is Your Next Step?

Don’t leave your dental health or aesthetic aspirations to chance. Consult with a seasoned professional. Reach out to Plaistow Dental Clinic today, and let’s shape the future of your smile.

Book an appointment online or call us at (603) 382-7100 now!