Crowns in Frisco, TX

A crown, sometimes known as a dental cap, is a strong, durable cover that protects a tooth that is broken, discolored, or significantly decayed. The crown, which fits snugly over the visible portion of the tooth, may also bee used to strengthen and protect teeth in a dental bridge. At Sweet Tooth Dental Loft in Frisco, TX, general dentist Dr. Camelia Cooper places temporary and permanent crowns on patients that can be made from metals (such as gold, steel, and nickel), porcelain fused over metal, all porcelain, or all ceramic. While crowns with a porcelain or ceramic exterior look and feel closer to the patient's natural teeth, metal crowns are more durable. During the patient's consultation, Dr. Cooper will go over the patient's treatment options, including crown materials, costs, and an estimated timeline.

Frisco, TX individuals might need to have a dental crown restoration placed to address an array of oral health conditions and restore the natural function and aesthetics of a tooth. Some of the more common reasons for performing a dental crown procedure include:

• Teeth that are cracked or broken
• Worn or eroded teeth
• Discolored or odd-shaped teeth
• Teeth with moderate dental caries
• Replacement of large, damaged fillings
• Teeth that have received a root canal
• As part of a dental bridge for tooth replacement
• To restore individual dental implants

At Sweet Tooth Dental Loft, custom dental crowns are performed for teeth in the front and back of the mouth and may be fabricated of top-grade ceramic or additional types of aesthetic materials, porcelain fused to metal, or a high-noble metal (such as gold). Dr. Cooper can evaluate your tooth and help you decide upon the best type of crown procedure for your individual needs and cosmetic preferences.

There are several benefits to dental crowns that make them a popular choice for restoring and protecting teeth. Whether you're dealing with a damaged, decayed, or cosmetically imperfect tooth, crowns offer both functional and aesthetic solutions. Crowns are customized to fit seamlessly with your smile, providing both durability and a natural appearance. Benefits include:

• Preservation of a damaged tooth
• Aesthetic improvements for chips or cracks
• Long-lasting durability
• Protection after a root canal
• Stabilization of cracked or broken teeth
• Improved chewing and speaking
• Customized fit for comfort

A dental crown usually takes 2 appointments to complete. During the first appointment, Dr. Cooper will prepare the tooth for the crown, take impressions of the tooth for the permanent crown, and place a temporary crown over the tooth to protect it. The impressions are sent to a dental laboratory where a customized crown(s) will be created for the patient. Once the crowns arrive back at Sweet Tooth Dental Loft, the patient can schedule an appointment to have their permanent crown(s) fitted and set by Dr. Cooper. 

Patients do not usually have any pain after a crown is placed, but some patients experience discomfort or tooth sensitivity. Depending on the material, crowns can last from 7 – 40 years. Patients can extend the life of their crown by practicing good oral hygiene and visiting Dr. Cooper at Sweet Tooth Dental Loft for regular exams and cleanings. If oral health is neglected, the tooth under the crown may develop a cavity or infection that will require more extensive treatment, like a root canal.

What dental crown material should I use?
Dental crowns can be made of many materials, including some metals, porcelain, and ceramic. We encourage you to review these options in full with your dental professional at Sweet Tooth Dental Loft. We know how to choose the best materials based on your needs and desired outcomes.

Are dental crowns permanent?
Dental crowns are cemented into place and can't be removed on your own. Even though they may not last forever, we can recommend ways to improve their lifespan. Patients in Frisco, TX, should practice good oral hygiene and return for annual cleanings and exams at our office.

How should I clean my dental crowns?
The good news is that dental crowns don't require any special care. They can be cleaned and cared for just like any other natural tooth. Brush twice a day, floss once a day, and use mouthwash as directed by your dentist. These actions alone can keep plaque at bay and prevent future issues.

What alternatives are there to getting a crown?
At times, you might be able to substitute veneers for a dental crown. However, veneers can only be placed on the teeth at the front of your mouth. Crowns will hold up better with the wear and tear that your teeth in the back undergo from various activities such as chewing and grinding.

What's the difference between a dental crown and a cap?
Dental crowns and caps are in fact, the same thing. You may hear crowns referred to as "caps" by older generations. Crowns are known for the way they blend into your natural teeth and for the protection they offer damaged, broken, and chipped teeth.

Can dental crowns be whitened?
Whitening treatments won't change the color of dental crowns; they maintain their original shade even as natural teeth may yellow or stain. If you have crowns and want to whiten your teeth, consult your dentist first, as whitening agents could damage the crown's surface.

If you are concerned about the condition of your teeth, schedule a consultation with Dr. Cooper at Sweet Tooth Dental Loft to learn more about how crowns can help you. Everyone deserves a beautiful, healthy smile, so come in soon to find out how you can improve yours.