Are your worn or damaged teeth making eating and speaking difficult? Do your teeth make it uncomfortable to eat hard and crunchy foods? Dental crowns can cover and protect broken teeth. Tooth crowns are dental restorations that act like caps to cover teeth fully. Dr. Rita Tempel is an experienced cosmetic dentist that offers customized dental crown treatment in Gettysburg, PA. She works with master ceramicists to create custom, natural-looking dental crowns.
Dental Crown Treatment in Gettysburg, PA
A dental crown may cover a dental implant, protect weakened teeth, or cover a tooth after a large filling. Crowns may also address chipped, broken, discolored, and misshapen teeth. Additionally, crowns may be made of metal, porcelain, ceramic, or resin. Dr. Tempel only uses master ceramicists to create long-lasting, quality dental crowns. Fit, function, and aesthetics are extremely important to Dr. Tempel and her patients.
During crown treatment, we numb the mouth and remove part of the tooth so the crown fits correctly. Then, we make a tooth mold and place a temporary crown. The master ceramicist customizes each crown according to the tooth’s shade, shape, and size. Once the permanent crowns are complete, we remove the temporary crown and cement the permanent crown in place.
Dental Crown FAQs
Learn more about tooth crowns and related treatments with answers to these commonly asked questions:
What are onlays?
Also known as partial crowns, onlays do not fully cover teeth. Instead, they cover the top or chewing surface of the tooth. Onlays cover the tooth cusps and chewing surface of the tooth. They are separate restorations made of composite, tooth-colored material.
Do I need a crown after root canal treatment?
We may recommend dental crowns after a root canal if patients have worn or weakened teeth. Root canal treatment removes the infected dental pulp within the tooth and then seals the tooth with a dental filling. Some patients may need more support in the form of a dental crown.
How long does it take to adjust to a new crown?
It may take two or more weeks for patients to get accustomed to their new dental crowns. Directly after dental crown treatment, the crown may feel bulky because it adds structure to worn or broken teeth. Patients will also learn how to eat and drink with their crowns naturally.
Do gums grow around dental crowns?
Yes, the gums grow around dental crowns. Patients should not experience any cavities under their crowns unless they develop gum disease. Patients need to continue to floss and brush their natural teeth and crowns. If patients develop gum disease, their gums will recede, leaving the tooth underneath the crown prone to decay.
How long do dental crowns last?
The longevity of your dental crown will depend on how well you care for it. On average, dental crowns last 10 to 15 years before the dentist needs to replace them. However, they can last longer with excellent dental care.
Regular dental check-ups and cleanings, along with good oral hygiene habits, can help extend the longevity of your dental crowns. Dr. Tempel can give you personalized advice to extend the life of your dental crowns.
Can I eat normally with a dental crown?
You will be able to eat normally with a dental crown. Dental crowns are designed to be strong and durable, allowing you to enjoy a wide range of foods.
After you receive a crown, you receive aftercare instructions. These will advise you not to use excessive force when eating an not to bite on hard objects with the crowned tooth. These actions can damage the crown.
How is a dental crown different from a filling?
Dental crowns and fillings serve different purposes. Dr. Tempel will use a tooth filling to repair a small to medium-sized cavity. On the other hand, she will use a dental crown to treat a tooth with a large cavity or to protect an extensively damaged or weakened tooth.
Dental crowns provide full coverage and support to the remaining tooth structure, while dental fillings are a more conservative approach that fills the cavity. Both treatments aim to restore tooth function and prevent further damage.
How do I care for a tooth with a dental crown?
To care for a tooth with a dental crown, maintain excellent oral hygiene by brushing twice daily and flossing regularly. You need to pay close attention to the area where the crown meets the gumline when brushing. Avoid biting on solid objects or using your teeth as tools. Regular dental check-ups and teeth cleanings will ensure the crown’s longevity. Dr. Tempel will be able to detect and address any issues early on.
Will my dental insurance cover my dental crowns?
Coverage for dental crowns varies depending on your insurance plan. Some insurance plans may cover a portion of the cost of a dental crown, while others may classify it as a cosmetic procedure and provide limited or no coverage. It is advisable to consult your insurance provider and review your policy to understand the specific coverage and any limitations or requirements for dental crown treatments.
Can you replace my dental crown?
Yes, Dr. Tempel can replace your dental crown if it is necessary. If your dental crown is damaged, or worn down, or if you have an underlying issue with the tooth supporting the crown, she can remove the old crown and replace it with a new one. The process generally involves preparing the tooth, taking impressions, and custom-making a new crown to fit, restoring both function and aesthetics.
Request a Dental Appointment
If you want dental crown treatment, contact Gettysburg Smiles today at (717) 853-1552. You may also request a dental appointment with Dr. Tempel on our website. Please let Dr. Tempel or a member of our dental team know if you have any questions or concerns about your treatment options. They will be happy to assist you.