Dental Crowns, Implants, and Cosmetic Dentistry Bloomfield Hills

What are Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns are custom-fitted shells that encase the entire tooth, restoring its shape, function, appearance, and strength. This restorative dentistry procedure is used when a tooth has been weakened by decay or damage or as a completion step after root canal therapy or dental implants.

Crowns are made of different materials and offer various benefits. At Owens Cosmetic and Family Dentistry, we specialize in ceramic and porcelain crowns due to their superior aesthetic qualities and excellent durability.

Why are Dental Crowns Needed?

Dental crowns are essential restorative components, typically recommended when a tooth’s structure and integrity are compromised. They can help you achieve a stunning smile, restoring confidence and self-esteem. Dental crowns might be needed in the following situations:

• Restoring a broken or worn tooth. Crowns restore teeth worn down or broken due to accidents or tooth grinding (bruxism). They rebuild the tooth’s shape and size, providing structural integrity and preventing further decay or damage.
• Following a root canal. After a root canal, teeth often become brittle and prone to fractures due to the removal of the tooth’s pulp, which reduces its moisture content. Crowns protect these weakened teeth, enabling them to withstand the pressures of chewing.
• Anchoring a dental bridge. In cases of missing teeth, crowns are placed on the teeth adjacent to the gap in cases of missing teeth to anchor a dental bridge. These crowns serve as a stable support for a dental bridge, which spans the space with artificial teeth, allowing for normal chewing and speaking.
• For cosmetic appearances. Crowns can correct dental imperfections, such as severe discoloration, misshapen teeth, or noticeable gaps. Using crowns to cover the natural teeth, cosmetic dentists help you achieve a more harmonious, balanced smile.
• To cover dental implants. Once a dental implant post is placed in the jawbone to replace a missing tooth’s root, a crown is attached to the top. This crown is the visible part of the tooth, seamlessly blending with surrounding teeth for a natural look and a confident smile.

Who is a Candidate for Dental Crowns?

Whether you’re a candidate for a dental crown depends on your specific dental needs. Dental crowns are typically recommended for those who have:

• Severely decayed teeth that cannot be repaired with fillings alone.
• Cracked or broken teeth that need reinforcement.
• Teeth with large fillings where the remaining tooth structure is weakened.
• Dental implants that require a crown to complete the restoration.
• Cosmetic concerns such as discoloration that cannot be addressed with professional teeth whitening or misshapen teeth.

However, not everyone is a suitable candidate for dental crowns. Certain conditions may limit their effectiveness or appropriateness. Individuals who might need a different solution include those who have:

• Insufficient tooth structure where there is not enough tooth left to securely attach the crown.
• Active gum disease (must be treated before considering crowns).
• Habits such as severe clenching or teeth grinding may cause crowns to crack or chip unless adequately managed with a bite splint.
• Poor oral hygiene as crowns require diligent care to prevent decay along the crown margins.

What Happens During the Dental Crown Procedure?

Getting a dental crown at Owens Cosmetic and Family Dentistry is straightforward and usually completed in two visits. Here is what you can expect from a dental crown procedure at our practice:

• Initial consultation and tooth preparation. During your first visit, the dentist evaluates your tooth and prepares it for the crown. This process involves reshaping the tooth by filing down around 0.5 mm of enamel so that the crown will fit securely and comfortably.
• Impression taking. Once your tooth is prepared, your dentist takes an impression of your tooth. This mold is the blueprint from which the dental lab will craft your custom crown using state-of-the-art digital technology.
• Temporary crown fitting. A temporary crown is placed to protect your prepared tooth while your permanent crown is being made. This crown is made quickly in-office and will cover your tooth for about two weeks.
• Permanent crown placement. During your second visit, the temporary crown will be removed, and the new crown will be fitted. Adjustments will be made to ensure the fit and bite are perfect before the crown is permanently cemented in place.

How to Take Care of Your Dental Crowns

Proper care of dental crowns is essential for maintaining longevity and ensuring they function like natural teeth. Here’s how to keep your smile looking and feeling great:

• Practice good oral hygiene. Brush at least twice a day and floss daily. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching the crown.
• Avoid hard foods. Avoid hard and sticky foods, such as ice, hard candies, and caramel that can dislodge or damage crowns.
• Wear a night guard if needed. If you grind or clench your teeth at night, consider using a night guard to protect your crowns from excessive force.
• Regular dental check-ups. Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and professional cleanings to ensure your crowns and natural teeth remain in good condition.

Other Services We Offer

Our practice offers various dental services tailored to help you achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of. Our dental professionals provide the following general and cosmetic dentistry services:

• Teeth whitening. Brighten your smile with professional whitening treatments that remove stains and improve tooth color. We can also help straighten your teeth with braces or Invisalign clear aligners.
• Veneers. Custom-made porcelain veneers can transform your smile by covering chips, gaps, or misalignments with a thin layer of durable, tooth-colored material.
• Dental bonding. Using a tooth-colored resin, this procedure quickly repairs minor imperfections in teeth, such as cracks or discoloration.
• Implants. We provide diagnostics for dental implants and on-site fabrication of artificial teeth. Once the surgical placement of the implant is complete, we apply the custom-made crown, ensuring a perfect fit and seamless integration with your natural smile.

Contact Us Today for Dental Crowns and Bridges Services in Bloomfield Hills, MI

Ready to improve your smile with our range of cosmetic dental services? Whether you need dental crowns, implants, or cosmetic dentistry in Bloomfield Hills, our skilled dental team can help you meet your smile goals.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment and discover how we can transform your smile. Reach out now and take the first step towards a more confident you!

FAQs

How long do dental crowns last?

Dental crowns can last between 5 to 15 years. Their longevity depends on oral hygiene practices, the material of the crown, and habits like teeth grinding.

Are dental crowns painful?

Getting dental crowns typically involves minimal pain. We manage any discomfort with local anesthesia, ensuring a comfortable experience. After the procedure, it’s common to experience some sensitivity to hot and cold substances, but this subsides quickly, usually within a few days.

What are dental crowns made of?

Dental crowns are crafted from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, and composite resin. Each material offers different aesthetic and functional benefits designed to match the needs of the tooth being restored. At Owens Cosmetic and Family Dentistry, we use ceramic and porcelain crowns.

Can dental crowns be whitened?

Dental crowns cannot be whitened like natural teeth because they are made from materials that do not respond to bleaching agents. To maintain the color of your crowns, discuss shade selection and aftercare with your dentist during placement. If your crown becomes discolored it may need to be replaced.

What happens if a dental crown falls off?

If your dental crown falls off, place it in a clean, small container with a secure lid to keep it safe. Then, contact your dentist as soon as possible. They will assess the situation and arrange an appointment to repair or reattach the crown properly.