Dental Bridges & Crowns in Bloomington, IN
At Ellettsville Dental Center in Bloomington, IN, our team would like nothing more than to be your trusted partner as you work toward revitalized oral health. That’s why we offer a variety of dental services designed to correct your unique problems and provide relief, structure, and renewed function to smiles of all shapes and sizes.
Crowns and bridges are a crucial cornerstone of this care; these dental services can help patients with cracks, chips, wear and tear, and even missing teeth.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a cap placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength while improving its appearance. Crowns protect a weakened tooth, cover a large filling, or hold a dental bridge in place. There are several types of dental crowns, each with its unique benefits:
- Porcelain Crowns — These crowns are highly aesthetic, blending seamlessly with natural teeth. They’re ideal for visible teeth.
- Metal Crowns — Made from materials such as gold or other alloys, metal crowns are highly durable and resistant to wear. They’re often used for molars or back teeth that aren’t usually visible.
- Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns — These offer the strength of metal with the aesthetic appeal of porcelain. They’re a versatile option for both front and back teeth.
- Resin Crowns — Made from composite resin, these crowns are less expensive but may wear down faster and are typically used as a temporary solution.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
The process of getting a dental crown generally involves the following steps:
- Initial Consultation — Your dentist will examine your tooth and discuss the best type of crown for your needs.
- Tooth Preparation — Next, we reshape the tooth to make room for the crown and take impressions to create a precise mold.
- Temporary Crown — We place a temporary crown while the final one is crafted.
- Crown Placement — Once the permanent crown is ready, we fit it and cement it onto the prepared tooth.
With proper care, dental crowns can last between 10 to 15 years. To ensure longevity, maintain good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing and flossing, and visit your dentist for routine checkups. Avoiding habits like chewing hard foods or using your teeth as tools can also help extend the life of your crowns.