Dental Crowns – Arlington, TX
Seamlessly Repair Your Smile
It can be nearly impossible to enjoy all the valuable benefits of a great smile if you have teeth that are damaged or decayed. If you’re struggling with these issues, reach out to Dr. Douglas Baldwin and the rest of our team for dental crowns in Arlington . We’re dedicated to treating your oral health problems with the innovation, personalized attention, and exceptional quality you deserve. Our dental crowns are designed to restore much-needed stability and structure to vulnerable smiles in a seamless and long-lasting fashion.
What is a Dental Crown?
Dental crowns, also commonly known as caps, are customized restorations designed to fit over vulnerable tooth structures. Providing protection against further decay or damage, these crowns can be made from a variety of materials, but most dentists are beginning to use tooth-colored solutions like porcelain that blend in beautifully with a patient’s smile. Apart from the esthetic value, however, is their ability to remain durable and stable for more than a decade. As long as patients take proper care of their teeth, they can expect their crowns to remain in place year after year.
The Dental Crown Process
The process begins by clearing away the decayed or damaged tooth structure. Once Dr. Baldwin is finished prepping the area, he will fill in the damaged area with composite resin before filing down the existing structure to ensure a proper fit once the crown is ready for placement.
Once the tooth is filled, we will capture impressions of your smile so that we can send the model off to lab technicians. These skilled craftspeople will create a customized crown based on the specifications and measurements provided.
While waiting for your finalized crown, we will have you wear a temporary crown so that the tooth remains protected in between appointments. You’ll need to be mindful of what you eat and how you care for your teeth during this time.
When ready, you’ll return to our dental office to have your finalized crown put into place. The entire process can require 2-3 dental visits.
The Benefits of Getting a Dental Crown
There are many unique benefits that come with dental crowns, and you can expect your dentist in Arlington to go over these advantages during your initial meeting. Having been around for decades or longer, dental crowns are a time-tested, reliable way to repair and rebuild damaged smiles for optimal functionality.
Some of the most prominent benefits include:
- The ability to enjoy a more youthful appearance
- Possessing greater confidence in your smile
- A restoration that can last 15+ years with regular care
- An easy-to-maintain restoration
- Greater protection for the vulnerable tooth structure
- Generate improved oral functionality
Dental Crown FAQs
Are Dental Crowns Permanent?
No, dental crowns are not technically considered permanent. But they do offer a long-term solution, typically lasting between five to 15 years. Keep in mind that the irreversible reshaping of your tooth for a crown means the tooth will always need protection. While tooth enamel does not regenerate, crowns shield the tooth from further damage, extending its lifespan.
To maintain your crown's durability, maintain daily oral hygiene, visit Dr. Baldwin regularly for checkups and cleanings, and consider protective measures like wearing a mouthguard/nightguard. Proper care will help ensure your crown stays in great condition for years to come!
How Do You Know When a Dental Crown Needs to Be Replaced?
Dr. Baldwin will need to perform X-rays and conduct a thorough examination to determine whether or not your dental crown requires replacement. However, there are certain warning signs that suggest your crown is nearing the end of its lifespan.
Pain may indicate decay beneath the crown, which means it will need to be removed for treatment. If the crown feels loose, especially while eating sticky foods, contact Dr. Baldwin to address instability. A noticeably worse appearance, like chipping or discoloration, can impact self-confidence and is a valid reason for replacement. For porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns, a dark line at the base may signify wear, indicating potential replacement due to extensive use. If you experience these signs, don’t hesitate to contact us for a thorough evaluation.
Does It Hurt to Get a Dental Crown?
Getting a dental crown typically doesn't hurt as Dr. Baldwin will numb the tooth during the procedure with a topical anesthetic. If you’re feeling particularly anxious, sedation may be an option to consider. While your tooth is numbed during the preparation phase, the final crown placement may not always require anesthesia, depending on the type of crown and your preference.
After the procedure, you might experience sensitivity for a few days, especially if you've had a root canal. Over-the-counter pain medications can help manage discomfort. Be sure to let us know if your pain persists. Remember, dental crowns are designed to protect your tooth from further damage to prevent future pain!
Are Dental Crowns Safe?
Dental crowns, when placed by an experienced dentist, are considered 100% safe. Plus, tooth-colored materials such as ceramic and zirconia are free from toxins. While there is a slight risk of allergic reactions to specific metal alloys used in crowns, such reactions are usually minor. If you have a history of metal allergies or sensitivities, inform Dr. Baldwin right away.
It’s worth noting that adverse reactions to dental porcelain are extremely rare. In the unlikely event of gum irritation, redness, or swelling near the crown, let us know immediately as these symptoms could indicate a potential allergic reaction.