Crowns

Dental health plays a crucial role in maintaining a beautiful and functional smile. When teeth are damaged, weakened, or misshapen, dental crowns offer a reliable solution. For patients seeking top-notch dental care, crowns provide an excellent way to restore the strength and aesthetics of their teeth. Patients can achieve lasting results and regain their confidence by working with our experienced dentists in Louisville, KY.

What Are Dental Crowns?

A dental crown, sometimes called a cap, is a custom-fitted cover placed over a damaged or weakened tooth. It restores the tooth's shape, size, strength, and appearance, making it look and function like a natural tooth. Crowns are versatile and can address various dental issues, including:

• Protecting a weak tooth from breaking
• Restoring a broken or severely worn-down tooth
• Covering a tooth with a large filling when there isn't enough tooth left
• Supporting a dental bridge
• Covering misshapen or severely discolored teeth

Types of Crowns

Dental crowns come in several materials, each with unique benefits:

• Porcelain or Ceramic Crowns: These are highly popular for their natural appearance, as they can be color-matched to your existing teeth. They are ideal for front teeth.
• Metal Crowns: Often made from gold or other alloys, metal crowns are highly durable and resistant to wear, making them suitable for molars.
• Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns (PFM): These crowns combine the strength of metal with the natural look of porcelain, offering both durability and aesthetics.
• Zirconia Crowns: Known for their strength and aesthetic appeal, they are an excellent choice for front and back teeth.
• Resin Crowns: These are more affordable but may wear down over time compared to crowns made from other materials. 

Our dentist will recommend the best type of crown based on your individual needs, preferences, and budget. Contact us to learn more.

The Process of Getting a Crown

The procedure for placing a dental crown typically involves two visits to the dental office.

First Visit: Preparation and Temporary Crown

• Examination and X-Rays: Our dentist will examine the affected tooth and take X-rays to assess its health. 
• Tooth Preparation: The tooth will be reshaped to make room for the crown. In some cases, if the tooth is severely damaged, a core build-up may be necessary to provide a solid foundation. 
• Impressions: An impression of your tooth will be used to create a custom-fit crown. 
• Temporary Crown Placement: While your permanent crown is being fabricated, a temporary crown will be placed to protect the tooth.

Second Visit: Crown Placement

• Removing the Temporary Crown: The temporary crown will be removed, and the tooth will be cleaned.
• Fitting the Permanent Crown: The crown will be carefully placed and adjusted for a perfect fit. 
• Securing the Crown: The crown will be cemented once the fit and appearance are satisfactory.

The Benefits of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns offer a range of benefits that make them a preferred solution for many dental issues, including: 

• Restored Functionality: Crowns restore the ability to bite and chew properly.
• Enhanced Aesthetics: They improve the appearance of damaged or discolored teeth.
• Durability: With proper care, crowns can last for 10-15 years or longer. 
• Protection: Crowns shield weakened teeth from further damage or decay.

How Crowns and Bridges Work Together

In cases of tooth loss, crowns are often used with bridges to fill gaps and restore a complete smile. A dental bridge consists of one or more artificial teeth anchored in place by crowns placed on the adjacent healthy teeth. This improves aesthetics and prevents the remaining teeth from shifting out of place.

Caring for Your Crowns

Maintaining your dental crowns involves regular oral hygiene practices and routine dental visits. Follow these tips to keep your dental crowns in top shape: 

• Brush and Floss Daily: Treat your crown like a natural tooth by brushing twice daily and flossing once daily.
• Avoid Hard Foods: Avoid biting down on hard objects like ice or nutshells to prevent chipping or cracking.
• Visit Our Dentist Regularly: Regular check-ups with our dentist ensure that your crowns and oral health are in excellent condition.

Why Choose Crowns in Louisville, KY?

Louisville residents can access advanced dental care and personalized treatment plans tailored to their needs by choosing our dental practice. Whether restoring a single damaged tooth or supporting a larger restorative procedure like a bridge, crowns play a pivotal role in enhancing oral health and appearance. 

You can benefit from state-of-the-art technology and compassionate care by choosing one of our skilled dentists. From the initial consultation to the final placement, our dentist will guide you through every step, ensuring optimal results and a comfortable experience. 

Advanced Technology for Superior Dental Care

At Aiken and Wilson Dentistry, we are committed to providing our patients with cutting-edge dental solutions by leveraging advanced technology. Our practice is equipped with state-of-the-art tools that enhance accuracy, efficiency, and comfort during every visit. From digital impressions to precise imaging systems, our technology ensures a seamless and minimally invasive experience. This focus on innovation allows us to diagnose issues with unparalleled precision and deliver treatments tailored to your unique needs.

Convenient Same-Day Crowns

We understand that your time is valuable, which is why we offer same-day crowns using advanced CAD/CAM technology. Instead of waiting for weeks for a dental crown, our in-office equipment allows us to design, craft, and place your custom crown in just one visit. This process eliminates the need for temporary crowns and multiple appointments, providing a more convenient and comfortable solution. With same-day crowns, you’ll leave our office with a fully restored smile in a single day. 

Conclusion: Invest in a Healthier Smile

Dental crowns offer a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution for various dental issues. Whether you need to restore a damaged tooth or support a bridge, crowns provide the strength and beauty necessary for a confident smile. Partnering with our experienced dentists ensures that your dental health is in capable hands, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of a healthy, functional, and attractive smile for years to come. 

To schedule an appointment with us today at Aiken and Wilson Dentistry, visit us at 139 Saint Matthews Ave, Louisville, KY 40207, or call (502) 895-3774. Please explore our website to learn more about our various services.