Dental Crowns – Worcester, MA
A Reliable Way to Protect Teeth
Dr. Joseph Costa offers a number of restorative dentistry options for his patients, such as dental crowns. Dental crowns are one of the most widely used dental procedures. Dental crowns can be used to treat:
- Misshapen teeth: Crooked and overlapping teeth can be capped with a crown to improve function.
- Discolored teeth: Severely stained and yellow teeth can be capped to protect them from further damage.
- Damaged teeth: Teeth that have gone through trauma and are cracked due to an injury can be repaired.
- Decayed teeth: Large tooth cavities that need more attention than a dental filling procedure.
A dental crown is often used to strengthen a tooth that has either received a root canal or will serve as the anchor for a dental bridge. Dental crowns can also be a part of a dental implant. The crown is secured to the titanium post, which is surgically placed in the jaw. Dental crowns in Worcester can be fabricated from various materials, depending on the crown’s location and the patient’s cosmetic goals. They can be made of a combination of metal and porcelain or ceramic. They are custom-made to blend naturally with your smile and correct any cosmetic concerns, such as the treated tooth’s color and/or shape.
The Dental Crown Process
The process of dental crown treatment takes multiple steps:
Initial Visit: We will thoroughly examine your overall dental health. Using diagnostic X-rays, molds, and impressions, we will look for signs of tooth decay, stress, and instability. These issues could compromise your results, so we want to address them before proceeding. This exam will help us design a personalized treatment plan to restore your tooth to optimal health and function. Your dentist will discuss the various options you have for dental crowns and help you make the best choice.
Tooth Preparation: Once the treatment plan is finalized, Dr. Costa will prepare the tooth or teeth by removing a small amount of the natural tooth structure to accommodate the dental crown. A temporary tooth cap will be placed on the tooth while the final restoration is being fabricated at the dental laboratory.
Final Restoration: In about two or three weeks, you will return to our Worcester dental office for the delivery appointment. We will attach the dental crown, make any necessary adjustments, and secure it for a permanent fit.
Dental Crown FAQs
Learn more about dental crown treatment with answers to these popular questions:
Do Dental Crowns Hurt?
No. The process of getting a dental crown should not hurt. In fact, it should relieve any pain from the affected area after you get the crown placed. You may experience discomfort before and after, but it is only temporary.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
With routine dental care and exams, dental crowns can typically last for about 20 years. Brush at least twice a day, floss regularly, and use mouthwash to keep all of your teeth healthy and your dentist happy.
Can a Permanent Dental Crown Be Removed and Put Back?
It is very rare for a dentist to remove a perfectly good restoration. In cases where the crown has fallen out, do not try to put it back on yourself. Save it and contact your dentist immediately.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Crown Put on Your Tooth?
The initial visit and preparation process takes about an hour. The longest part is waiting for the anesthetic to take effect. There is a waiting period for the final restoration to be placed.
What Not to Eat with a Dental Crown?
We advise patients to wait 24 hours after getting a dental crown before eating anything sticky and hard to bite. After a day or two, you can return to your normal diet without restrictions.