Dental Crowns in Springfield

We do everything possible to restore damaged teeth and rebuild natural tooth structures. Today, modern materials and techniques allow you to restore your smile without noticeable restorations containing metal or amalgam.

Porcelain crowns blend with your surrounding teeth while still restoring strength and fullness to your smile.

Crowns are often recommended after a root canal, to repair a broken tooth, or as a component of full mouth reconstruction or a smile makeover. When a tooth cannot be repaired with a filling, a crown will add new structure. Dr. Hinebaugh will discuss your goals, evaluate your oral health, and work alongside you to determine whether crowns are a good option for your restoration.

What is the crown procedure like?

A crown is a cap that covers a damaged tooth. The crown completely surrounds the remaining tooth, protecting and strengthening it. This helps prevent the tooth from breaking or sustaining further damage.

If a tooth is broken or cracked, a crown can help prevent the need for extraction. A crown should be placed as soon as possible after the tooth breaks to prevent additional damage.

A crown is typically placed over the course of two appointments.

• First appointment – The tooth is prepped so that the crown will fit in place. Any decay is removed and the tooth filled. An impression is taken so that the crown can be fabricated to fit over that tooth. The patient receives a temporary so that their smile is complete and they can chew and speak normally in the time between appointments.
• Second appointment – After the crown has been made, the patient returns to the office.  The temporary crown is removed, and the permanent crown is bonded in place. Dr. Hinebaugh then adjusts the crown to ensure that the patient’s bite is comfortable and the crown looks natural.

What different types of crowns are available?

There are several types of crowns, and Dr. Hinebaugh will recommend that one that best suits your needs. A crown is typically either made of all porcelain, porcelain over gold alloy, or all gold. Gold/metal crowns have been used for many years but are no longer the most commonly placed type of crown, as they are not aesthetically ideal. Crowns with a porcelain exterior can be made to match surrounding teeth and blend perfectly with your smile.

HOW SHOULD I TREAT MY CROWN TO HELP IT LAST?

Immediately after your crown is placed, do not eat especially hard, sticky or chewy foods for 24 hours to allow the crown to set. You may have some sensitivity after the crown is placed but this will fade.

You should treat your crown the way you treat your other teeth – brush twice a day, floss once a day, and eat healthy. If you have ever had a problem with grinding your teeth, make sure to wear a mouth guard so that you don’t damage your crown.

Looking for more information on a crown, or restoring your entire smile? Get in touch with our team today.