Dental Crowns

If you have damage to your teeth, a dental crown may be an effective solution to restore strength and appearance. At South Dayton Smiles in Miamisburg, OH, our team helps patients improve their oral health with modern dental care designed to protect and rebuild their smile. A dental crown can repair cracks, chips, and severe breaks while helping prevent further damage to your natural tooth.

Dental crowns are also used in combination with other treatments. For example, they may be placed over a dental implant or used as part of a dental bridge to replace missing teeth. No matter your needs, our dental team works with you to choose the right type of crown for long-term results.

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers a damaged or weak tooth. It restores the shape, size, and strength of your natural tooth while improving its natural appearance. Crowns are often recommended when a tooth has large fillings, significant tooth decay, or has undergone root canal treatment.

There are several types of dental crowns available, and each type of crown is designed for specific needs. Common options include ceramic crowns, porcelain crowns, zirconia crowns, metal crowns, and resin crowns. Each material offers different benefits depending on where the crown is placed, such as on front teeth or back teeth.

A Crown and Build-Up starts at $2,098.

Types of Dental Crowns

There are different types of crowns available, and our team will help you choose the best option based on your needs.

Common types of dental crowns include:

• Ceramic crowns for a natural look, often used on front teeth
• Porcelain crowns that blend well with the surrounding natural teeth
• Zirconia crowns, which are known for their strength and durability
• Metal crowns, including stainless steel crowns, which are used for strength in back teeth
• PFM crowns (porcelain fused to metal), which combine strength with aesthetics
• Resin crowns made from composite resin for a more affordable option

Each type of crown has its own benefits. For example, zirconia crowns are a good choice for durability, while ceramic crowns offer a more natural appearance. Some patients may also need to consider metal allergies when selecting materials.

What Is the Process for Placing a Dental Crown?

If we believe a dental crown procedure is right for you, the first step is to take an X-ray to examine the root structure and overall dental health. This helps us determine if the prepared tooth can support a permanent crown.

During your first visit, we will numb the area and reshape the tooth. This step ensures the crown will fit properly along the gum line and align with opposing teeth. If a large portion of the tooth is missing, we may build it up to support the crown placement.

Next, we take an impression of your tooth using digital technology or traditional methods. This impression of your tooth is sent to a dental lab or dental laboratory, where your new crown is created.

While your permanent crown is being made, we place a temporary crown using temporary cement to protect your tooth. At your second visit, we remove the temporary crown and place the permanent crown, making sure it fits comfortably and functions well.

Same-Day and Traditional Crown Options

Some patients may qualify for day crowns, also known as same-day crowns. These are created in-office using advanced technology, reducing the need for a dental laboratory and multiple dental visits.

Traditional crowns, on the other hand, are made in a dental lab and require a temporary crown while you wait for your permanent crown. Both options are effective solutions, and our team will recommend the best approach based on your situation.

Benefits of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns offer several important benefits for your oral health and daily comfort.

Key benefits include:

• Protection for a weak tooth to prevent further damage
• Restoration of tooth structure after tooth decay or injury
• Improved chewing ability, especially for back teeth
• Support for dental restorations like bridges and implants
• A natural look that blends with your natural teeth
• Long-term durability with proper care

A dental crown is a good choice for restoring both function and appearance. It helps protect your mouth while improving your confidence when you smile.

When You May Need a Dental Crown

You may need a dental crown if you have:

• A weak tooth that needs protection
• A tooth that has had root canal therapy
• Large fillings that no longer support the tooth
• A damaged or broken tooth
• A dental implant that needs a crown placed on top

Crowns are also used to protect teeth after root canal treatment and reduce the risk of infection or further decay.

How To Take Care of a Dental Crown

It is important to take care of your new crown to protect your overall dental health. With proper care, your crown can last for many years.

Helpful tips include:

• Brush and floss daily using good oral hygiene practices
• Avoid chewing hard objects like ice or popcorn kernels
• Limit sticky foods that may loosen the crown
• Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth
• Schedule regular dental visits for checkups and cleanings

Good oral hygiene helps protect both the crown and the surrounding gum line. It also reduces the risk of gum irritation and future dental problems.

Dental Crowns FAQs

How long does a dental crown last?

A dental crown can last many years with proper care. The lifespan depends on the material used, your oral hygiene habits, and how much pressure is placed on the crown. Regular dental visits and good oral hygiene practices can help extend the life of your crown and protect your overall oral health.

How much does a dental crown cost at South Dayton Smiles? 

The cost of a dental crown can vary depending on the type of crown used, the condition of the tooth, and whether additional treatment is needed. At our practice, a crown and build-up starts at $2,098.

Do dental crowns look natural?

Yes, many types of dental crowns are designed to match the color and shape of your natural teeth. Options like ceramic crowns and porcelain crowns provide a natural appearance, especially for front teeth. Our team will carefully select a material that blends well with your surrounding teeth for a natural look.

Can a dental crown get damaged?

While crowns are made from strong materials, they can still become damaged over time. Chewing on hard objects or biting down on sticky foods may increase the risk of cracks or loosening. If your crown becomes damaged, it is important to contact your dental team so they can prevent further damage or complications.

Is a dental crown procedure painful?

The dental crown procedure is typically comfortable. Our doctor will numb the area before preparing the tooth, and most patients feel little to no discomfort during treatment. After the procedure, you may experience mild sensitivity, but this usually goes away quickly as your mouth adjusts.

Why would I need a crown after a root canal?

After root canal therapy, the natural tooth may become weaker and more prone to damage. A dental crown is placed over the treated tooth to restore its strength and protect it from further decay or fracture. This helps maintain the function of your tooth and supports long-term oral health.

Quality Dental Crowns in Miamisburg

If you are ready to restore your smile and protect your teeth, our team is here to help. We provide personalized dental care using modern techniques and high-quality materials to ensure long-lasting results.

At South Dayton Smiles, Dr. Michele Botti and Dr. Jeri Scranton focus on helping you feel comfortable and confident throughout your treatment. Whether you need a new crown, replacement, or evaluation, we are here to guide you every step of the way.

Call 937-433-5133 today to schedule your appointment and find out if a dental crown is the right solution for your smile.