Have you ever had a tooth that felt weak, chipped, or just looked beyond repair? Maybe you’ve been told you need a dental crown and wondered what that actually means. You’re not alone. At Highland Family Dental Care, we explain crowns to patients almost every day, and how they could save your smile.
What Exactly Is a Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that fits completely over a damaged tooth. It covers the tooth from the gum line up, restoring its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Think of it as a snug, permanent helmet that protects what’s left of your natural tooth underneath.
Labs can make crowns from different materials, including porcelain, ceramic, or metal blends. At our Highland office, Dr. Mana Shoeybi often recommends all-porcelain or porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns because they look natural and hold up well to everyday chewing.
When Would You Need a Crown?
Crowns solve several common dental problems. You might need one if:
- You have a large cavity: Sometimes a tooth is too damaged for a simple filling. A crown covers and protects the entire tooth.
- A tooth is chipped or broken: A crown holds the pieces together and prevents the damage from spreading.
- You just finished a root canal: Teeth that have had root canals become brittle over time. A crown helps keep them from fracturing.
- Your tooth is worn down: Grinding or clenching can flatten teeth. A crown restores proper height and shape.
- You want to cover a dental implant: Crowns are the visible part that sits on top of an implant, often giving you a natural-looking replacement tooth.
What Does Getting a Crown Feel Like?
We know that dental procedures can sound intimidating. Let’s walk you through what actually happens, so you know exactly what to expect.
- Numbing the area. Dr. Shoeybi will make sure you’re completely comfortable before starting. You should feel pressure but not pain.
- Shaping the tooth. Next, Dr. Shoeybi gently files down the tooth to make room for the crown. How much is removed depends on the tooth and the type of crown.
- Taking an impression. Dr. Shoeybi makes a precise mold of your prepared tooth. We send that mold to dental lab where skilled technicians craft your permanent crown.
- Wearing a temporary crown. While waiting for your permanent crown (usually a week or two), you’ll wear a temporary crown. It protects the tooth and looks natural enough for everyday life.
- Placing the permanent crown. At your second visit, Dr. Shoeybi removes the temporary crown, checks the fit and color of the new crown, and cements it securely into place.
How Long Do Crowns Last?
With good care, a dental crown can last 10 to 15 years or longer. The secret? Treat it like a natural tooth. Brush twice a day, floss carefully around the crown, keep up with regular cleanings, and avoid chewing ice or hard candies.
A Crown Can Save a Tooth
A dental crown often means keeping a natural tooth that might otherwise need to be pulled. And keeping your own teeth is always the goal. Nothing works quite like the real thing.
At Highland Family Dental Care, Dr. Shoeybi takes the time to explain every option so you can make a confident decision. If you have a tooth that’s been bothering you or that looks beyond repair, don’t wait. Call us at 301-635-4619 to schedule an exam. We’ll help you figure out whether a crown, or another solution, is right for you.