Dr. Trinkner helps patients who have common or complex dental concerns. We rebuild smiles using non-invasive dental services and procedures. Dental crowns are one of the most successful restorations for a range of cosmetic and restorative needs. Our dentists provide affordable dental crowns to fix the following issues:
- Fix tooth damage
- Repair deep tooth decay
- Repair a chipped, broken or cracked tooth
- To strengthen a tooth after a root canal treatment
- Brighten a stained tooth
- Restore a tooth to full health
- Straightening a misshapen tooth
- Elongating a short and worn tooth
- Alleviate painful symptoms
What Is A Dental Crown?
You might have heard of dental crowns before, but what exactly are they? A dental crown is more than just a cosmetic fix; it’s like a cap that covers a damaged tooth. It strengthens the tooth, especially after a root canal or other restorative treatments.
To put on a crown, the dentist first prepares the tooth by removing part of the damaged area. Then, they place a permanent crown on top, which fits snugly and seals well around the gum line.
Dental crowns can be made from different materials, but we prefer using non-metal options like porcelain. Porcelain crowns look very natural and blend well with your other teeth. Dr. Trinkner will make a custom crown just for you, so it matches your smile perfectly.
Dental Crowns in Columbia, SC
In our Columbia, SC practice, we offer high-quality dental care, including crowns. Crowns can help with various dental issues, from damaged or weakened teeth to improving appearance.
Our skilled dentists will make sure your crown looks natural and works well, restoring your confidence. We know each patient is different, so we tailor each crown to fit your specific needs, ensuring a comfortable and long-lasting result.
Dr. Trinkner will start by creating a treatment plan for your custom crown. The process usually takes two to three visits. In the first visit, we’ll prepare your tooth using special tools and might place a temporary crown to protect it. We’ll also show you how the final crown will look.
A dental lab will then make your new porcelain crown. In your final visit, Dr. Trinkner will securely place the crown on your tooth. With proper care, your crown can last a lifetime.
Dental Crown Procedure Aftercare
To help your new crown heal properly and stay in good shape, follow these aftercare tips:
- Listen to any specific instructions your dentist gives you. This might include advice on what to eat, how to care for your teeth, and when to come back for follow-up visits.
- Right after the procedure, avoid eating or drinking anything hot. Your tooth might still be sensitive, so it’s best to stay away from sticky or hard foods. Also, try not to bite down on hard objects like pens or pencils, as this could damage the crown.
- Be careful when chewing on the side of your mouth with the new crown, especially during the first few days. The crown might feel loose or uncomfortable until it fully settles.
- Keep up with good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly. Just be gentle around the new crown to avoid moving it.
- If you feel any pain or discomfort, you can take over-the-counter pain medication. Make sure to visit your dentist regularly to check that your crown is working well.
If you have any problems, questions, or concerns after your procedure, don’t hesitate to contact our dental office. We’re here to help ensure your dental crown stays in great shape.
Dental Crown Case
When Mimi came to our Columbia dental office, her chief concerns were to reestablish a more youthful smile. She wanted to replace old style dental crowns that did not look natural. She’d had extensive work on two of the teeth from early childhood issues.
We restored her mouth, improved the color of her teeth and more using modern ceramic materials that can block color. She will continue to enjoy her new dental crowns for several years. See more dental crown before and after photos in our Clinical Cases Gallery.
Dental Crown FAQs
Am I a Candidate for Crowns?
A person might need a dental crown if they have a tooth that is too damaged or weak to fix with a filling or other treatments. This could be due to a big cavity, a cracked or broken tooth, a tooth that has had a root canal, or a misshapen or discolored tooth. Crowns can also cover dental implants or help hold dental bridges in place.
Are There Other Options Besides Getting a Crown After a Root Canal?
Yes, there are other choices your dentist might suggest based on what you need. These include dental bridges, inlays and onlays, and composite resin fillings. Each option can help protect the tooth after a root canal. Your dentist can help you choose the best one for you.
Are Crowns Necessary after a Root Canal?
It depends on the tooth, but most root canal treatments include placing a crown on the same day. A crown keeps your tooth strong and shields it from more damage. Without a crown, your tooth might become sensitive or get infected again.
If your tooth is in good shape after a root canal, the dentist might just fill it and leave it like that. If the root canal is on a front tooth, we usually don’t need to cap it. But if it’s on a molar, premolar, or one of your back teeth, your dentist will likely recommend a crown. Putting a cap on a back tooth gives it extra strength and helps protect it from damage while chewing.
How Long do Crowns Last?
On average, porcelain crowns usually last around 15 years. The better you take care of your teeth, the longer the crown with last. If you take good care of them with regular brushing, flossing, and mouthwash, they can last up to 30 years.
What Are Popular Types of Crowns?
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal Crowns. The porcelain outer layer provides a natural look, while the metal-alloy base provides strength and longevity.
- All-ceramic Porcelain Crowns. These crowns consist entirely of a ceramic compound. They look the most realistic and translucent appearance, similar to natural tooth enamel.
- Gold Crowns. Although less common, gold crowns are extremely strong and long-lasting, They are a popular choice for back teeth.
- Zirconia Crowns. These are a popular choice for both front and back teeth because of their natural appearance, strength, and longevity.
- Stainless Steel Crowns. These are temporary crowns for children in pediatric dentistry or in emergency cases. They are cost-effective and can be easy to place.
Can You Whiten a Dental Crown?
No, dental crowns do not respond to traditional teeth whitening treatments. They consist of highly stain-resistant material that doesn’t easily stain. You can however remove surface stains by using mouthwash.
You can also try a baking soda and salt rinse to help remove plaque and tartar from your real teeth. Furthermore, teeth whitening treatments will not hurt or ruin your existing dental crowns.
Is Getting a Crown Painful?
Getting a dental crown is usually not painful. We make sure you’re comfortable during the routine procedure. We will numb the tooth and the area around it before we start. This keeps you from feeling pain while we work on your tooth. You might feel some mild discomfort during the drilling or after the procedure, but it’s temporary, and the benefits are worth it.
How Much Does a Crown Cost?
The cost of a crown depends on the type you choose and your oral health. Before starting, we’ll go over the entire process, including the price. We take dental insurance plans and offer payment plans. You can also consider interest-free financing through CareCredit.
Can I Replace my Metal Crown with a Porcelain One?
Yes, you can switch a metal crown for a porcelain one. If your crown is metal, broken, or worn out, we can replace it with a porcelain crown. This simple procedure can make a big difference in how your smile looks.
Can Dental Crowns fall Off?
Yes, crowns can fall off in rare cases. This can happen if the tooth under the crown decays, if the crown doesn’t fit right, or if the adhesive fails. Keeping good oral hygiene and seeing your dentist regularly can help prevent this. If your crown does fall off, contact your dentist right away to have it reattached or replaced.
Can I Get a Crown if I Grind my Teeth?
Yes, people who grind their teeth (bruxism) can get crowns. Crowns protect teeth from damage caused by grinding. It’s important to choose a strong material like porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) or zirconia for these crowns. Regular check-ups will help make sure the crowns stay in good shape.
Can a Crown Replace a Missing Tooth?
A crown alone can’t replace a missing tooth, but it can be part of a solution. For example, a dental implant or bridge can replace a missing tooth, with a crown acting as the visible part. An implant involves placing a post in the jawbone, and a crown is attached to it. A bridge uses nearby teeth for support, and crowns anchor the artificial tooth. Dr. Trinkner can help you choose the best option for your needs.
Call us at 803-400-8729 to schedule a consultation for cosmetic crowns, or request an appointment online.