Wondering why your St Pete dentist recommended a crown instead of a filling? Here is how the decision is made, what the visit involves, and what to expect after.
Continue readingFilling or Crown? How We Decide When A Tooth Needs More Than A Patch
What to Do if a Temporary Crown Falls Off
What to Do if a Temporary Crown Falls Off in St. Petersburg
If you’ve looked in the mirror and realized your temporary crown has fallen off, it can be alarming, but it doesn’t have to be a disaster. Temporary crowns are designed to be short‑term solutions, and occasionally they do come loose. Knowing what to do in those first few minutes can protect your tooth and keep you comfortable until you can see your dentist. At 4th Street Family Dentistry, the team, led by the best dentist in St. Petersburg, FL, helps patients handle situations like this quickly and calmly.
Why You Have a Temporary Crown
A temporary crown is placed after your tooth has been prepared for a permanent crown. It serves several important purposes:
Protects the tooth and any exposed dentin from sensitivity and damage.
Maintains the space so nearby teeth don’t drift and affect your bite.
Allows you to chew more comfortably while the lab makes your final crown.
Keeps your smile looking natural between visits.
Because temporary crowns are attached with weaker, temporary cement, they’re meant to come off easily when it’s time for your permanent crown, but that also means they’re more likely to loosen if you bite something sticky or hard.
Step 1: Don’t Panic, but Act Promptly
The moment you realize your temporary crown has come off, take a breath and remind yourself this is a common issue. Then:
Carefully remove the crown from your mouth so you don’t swallow it.
If you accidentally swallow it, it usually passes naturally, but still let your dentist know.
Rinse your mouth gently with water to clear any debris.
Acting promptly helps protect the prepared tooth and reduces the risk of further damage.
Step 2: Inspect and Save the Crown
Take a close look at the temporary crown and the tooth:
Rinse the crown gently with water and set it in a clean container or plastic bag.
Check the inside for old cement or obvious cracks.
Look at the tooth, if you see sharp edges, dark spots, or anything that looks broken, mention this to the dentist when you call.
Even if the crown looks a little worn, your dentist may still be able to re‑cement it until your permanent crown arrives, so don’t throw it away.
Step 3: Call 4th Street Family Dentistry
Your next step should be to call your dental office as soon as possible. Let them know:
That your temporary crown has come off.
Whether you’re in pain or just experiencing sensitivity.
If the crown is intact and you still have it.
At 4th Street Family Dentistry, the team will help you determine how urgent the situation is. In many cases, they’ll schedule a same‑day or next‑day visit to re‑cement the temporary crown or place a new one. Having access to the best dentist in St. Petersburg, FL means you’ll get clear instructions and prompt care.
Step 4: Protect the Tooth Until Your Appointment
The exposed tooth may feel sensitive to air, hot and cold drinks, or chewing. To protect it in the short term:
Avoid chewing on that side of your mouth.
Stay away from very hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks, which can trigger sensitivity.
Brush gently around the area with a soft toothbrush, and floss carefully, pulling the floss out to the side instead of up between the teeth.
If you’re not in pain, these steps may be enough until you’re seen. If you are uncomfortable, ask the office whether you can use over‑the‑counter pain relievers and a desensitizing toothpaste.
Step 5: Using Temporary Dental Cement (If Advised)
In some cases, especially if you can’t get into the office right away, your dentist may suggest using an over‑the‑counter temporary dental cement from a pharmacy to hold the temporary crown in place for a short time.
If your dentist says it’s appropriate for you, the general process is:
Clean and dry both the tooth and the inside of the crown.
Place a small amount of temporary cement inside the crown as directed on the package.
Gently seat the crown back on the tooth, making sure it’s oriented correctly.
Bite down gently to ensure it feels in the proper position, then wipe away any excess cement.
This is only a short‑term solution. You still need to keep your appointment so the dentist can check the fit, adjust your bite if needed, and prepare for your final crown.
What Not to Do
When a temporary crown falls off, a few things can make the situation worse. Avoid:
Using superglue or other household adhesives. These are not safe for your mouth and can damage the tooth and crown.
Forcing the crown back on if it doesn’t seem to fit easily; you could put it on backward or trap food or debris underneath.
Ignoring the problem. Leaving the tooth exposed for too long can lead to shifting teeth, increased sensitivity, or even damage that affects your final crown.
If you’re ever unsure, it’s better to leave the crown off and keep the tooth clean until you can speak with your dentist.
Why It’s Important Not to Delay
Even if the tooth doesn’t hurt, a missing temporary crown isn’t something to put off for weeks. Delaying care can lead to:
Tooth movement that makes your final crown harder to fit.
Increased sensitivity or discomfort.
Risk of new decay on the exposed tooth surfaces.
Chipping or fracturing of the prepared tooth while chewing.
Taking care of the problem quickly helps ensure your permanent crown will fit properly and last longer.
How 4th Street Family Dentistry Helps
When you call 4th Street Family Dentistry about a loose or missing temporary crown, you can expect:
Calm, clear guidance on what to do right away.
A prompt appointment to re‑cement or replace the temporary crown.
A check to ensure your bite is comfortable and the tooth is healthy.
Answers to your questions about eating, cleaning, and what to expect next.
The best dentist in St. Petersburg, FL understands that things like this can feel stressful and will focus on getting you comfortable and back on track with your treatment plan as quickly as possible.
Preventing Future Problems with Temporary Crowns
While not every mishap can be avoided, you can reduce the chances of a temporary crown coming off by:
Avoiding sticky foods like caramel, taffy, gum, or chewy candy.
Being cautious with hard foods such as ice, nuts, and hard pretzels.
Chewing primarily on the opposite side until your permanent crown is placed.
Following all care instructions given after your crown prep appointment.
If you tend to clench or grind your teeth, be sure to mention this to your dentist, they may recommend additional protection.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last? Tips for Extending Their Lifespan
Dental crowns are one of the most common and effective solutions in restorative dentistry. They restore the function, strength, and appearance of damaged or weakened teeth. But if you’ve recently had a crown placed—or are considering one—you may be wondering: how long do dental crowns last? At 4th Street Family Dentistry, we’re here to answer that question and help you understand the factors that affect the lifespan of your crown. If you’re looking for the best dentist in St. Petersburg, FL, our team is dedicated to providing durable, long-lasting solutions that keep your smile healthy for years to come.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers the entire visible portion of a tooth above the gum line. Crowns are used for a variety of reasons:
Protecting a tooth weakened by decay or a large filling
Restoring a broken or cracked tooth
Supporting a tooth after root canal therapy
Improving the appearance of discolored or misshapen teeth
Anchoring a dental bridge
Crowns can be made from several materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of materials. The type of crown you choose can influence both its appearance and longevity.
Average Lifespan of a Dental Crown
The lifespan of a dental crown varies depending on the material, oral hygiene, and lifestyle habits. On average:
Porcelain or ceramic crowns: 10–15 years
Metal crowns (gold or alloy): 15–20 years
Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns: 10–15 years
With proper care, many patients enjoy crowns that last 20 years or more. Regular checkups and good oral hygiene are essential for maximizing the life of your crown.
Factors That Affect Crown Longevity
Several factors can influence how long a crown lasts, including:
1. Oral Hygiene
Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using an antibacterial mouthwash help prevent decay around the edges of your crown. Poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease or decay at the crown margin, which may require replacement.
2. Material
As mentioned, metal crowns tend to last the longest, but porcelain crowns offer a more natural appearance. Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns combine strength and aesthetics. Your dentist will help you choose a material that balances durability with cosmetic needs.
3. Bite and Grinding Habits
Patients who grind or clench their teeth (bruxism) may experience faster wear or damage to their crowns. Wearing a nightguard can protect both natural teeth and crowns from excessive stress.
4. Diet
Chewing ice, hard candies, or using your teeth to open packaging can damage a crown. Avoiding these habits can significantly extend its lifespan.
5. Dental Care and Checkups
Regular visits to your dentist ensure early detection of potential problems, such as loosening or cracks in the crown. The best dentist in St. Petersburg, FL can monitor the health of your crown and make adjustments or repairs as needed.
Signs Your Crown May Need Replacement
Even with proper care, crowns don’t last forever. Watch for these signs that your crown may need attention:
Pain or sensitivity around the crowned tooth
Visible cracks or chips
Loose or wobbly crown
Discoloration around the edges of the crown
Decay under the crown
If you notice any of these issues, contact 4th Street Family Dentistry immediately. Early intervention can save your tooth and prevent more extensive treatment.
How to Make Your Crown Last Longer
You can extend the life of your crown with a few simple habits:
Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
Floss daily, paying attention to the area around the crown
Avoid chewing hard or sticky foods on the crowned tooth
Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth
Schedule regular dental checkups and professional cleanings
By following these guidelines, you can maximize the longevity of your crown and protect your overall oral health.
Why Choose 4th Street Family Dentistry for Your Crowns
Choosing the right dentist is just as important as choosing the right crown material. At 4th Street Family Dentistry, we prioritize precision, comfort, and aesthetics in every crown procedure. Our team uses advanced technology to create crowns that fit perfectly, look natural, and function for years.
Patients trust us as the best dentist in St. Petersburg, FL because we combine expertise with a compassionate approach, ensuring every procedure is tailored to their needs. From the initial consultation to the final placement, we guide you through each step for a smooth and comfortable experience.
Final Thoughts
Dental crowns are an excellent way to restore damaged teeth and protect your smile. While their lifespan can vary depending on material, oral hygiene, and habits, most crowns last 10–15 years or longer. With proper care and regular dental visits, you can enjoy a healthy, functional, and beautiful smile for decades.
If you’re considering a dental crown or want to ensure your existing crowns are in good condition, schedule a consultation with 4th Street Family Dentistry, the best dentist in St. Petersburg, FL. Our team is dedicated to helping you maintain a strong, healthy, and confident smile for years to come.
Restore Smiles with Dental Crowns
Restore Smiles with Dental Crowns
Restoring Smiles with Dental Crowns: How 4th Street Family Dentistry Ensures Long-Lasting Results
At 4th Street Family Dentistry, recognized as the Best Dentist in St. Petersburg, FL, we understand the transformative power of dental crowns in restoring smiles and preserving oral health.
The Purpose and Importance of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns, also known as caps, are versatile restorations designed to encase a damaged or weakened tooth, providing strength, protection, and a natural appearance. Whether a tooth has suffered from extensive decay, undergone root canal therapy, or experienced structural damage, dental crowns offer a reliable solution to enhance both aesthetics and functionality.
The Artistry of Crown Selection
At 4th Street Family Dentistry, the selection of a dental crown is an artful process. We carefully consider various factors, including the location of the tooth, the patient’s oral health, and cosmetic preferences. Our dental team offers a range of materials for crowns, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, and porcelain-fused-to-metal, each with its unique advantages.
Porcelain and Ceramic Crowns
Porcelain and ceramic crowns are popular choices due to their ability to mimic the natural appearance of teeth. Their translucent properties and shade-matching capabilities make them ideal for front teeth, providing a seamless blend with the surrounding dentition. At 4th Street Family Dentistry, we prioritize aesthetics while ensuring the durability and longevity of these restorations.
Metal Crowns
Metal crowns, often composed of alloys such as gold or silver, are known for their exceptional strength and durability. While they may not match the natural color of teeth, metal crowns are suitable for molars and other non-visible areas where strength is paramount. Our skilled practitioners discuss the pros and cons of metal crowns with patients to make informed decisions.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns
Combining the strength of metal with the aesthetics of porcelain, porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns strike a balance between durability and natural appearance. These crowns are versatile and can be used for both front and back teeth, offering a solution that addresses both functionality and cosmetic concerns.
The Crown Placement Process
The art of restoring smiles with dental crowns at 4th Street Family Dentistry involves a meticulous placement process. Our experienced dental team begins by preparing the affected tooth, removing any damaged or decayed portions. Impressions are then taken to create a precise mold for the custom crown. Patients are fitted with a temporary crown while the permanent one is crafted in a dental laboratory. Once ready, the final crown is securely bonded to the tooth, ensuring a snug fit and optimal function.
Aesthetic Considerations and Customization
Our commitment to artistry extends to the customization of dental crowns. We consider factors such as the shape, size, and color of the crown to ensure it seamlessly integrates with the patient’s natural smile. The goal is to provide not only a functional restoration but also a cosmetic enhancement that enhances the overall appearance of the teeth.
The Longevity of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns, when cared for properly, can last for many years. At 4th Street Family Dentistry, we educate our patients on maintaining good oral hygiene practices, avoiding excessive forces on the crowns, and attending regular check-ups to ensure the longevity of their restored smiles.
Contact Us Today! Rediscover Your Radiant Smile at 4th Street Family Dentistry
As the Best Dentist in St. Petersburg, FL, 4th Street Family Dentistry combines artistry and expertise to bring smiles back to life through dental crowns. If you are seeking a reliable and aesthetically pleasing solution to restore your teeth, contact us today. Experience the transformative journey of revitalizing your smile with precision and artistry at 4th Street Family Dentistry, where your oral health and confidence are our top priorities.
Dental Crown Options
Dental Crown Options
Dental Crown Options: Choosing the Right Restoration for Your Oral Health Needs
A flawless smile is often a reflection of optimal oral health, and dental crowns play a crucial role in achieving this perfection. At 4th Street Family Dentistry in the charming city of St. Petersburg, FL, we understand the importance of dental crowns in restoring, protecting, and enhancing smiles.
Personalized Consultations
The journey to a revitalized smile with dental crowns at 4th Street Family Dentistry begins with personalized consultations. Our experienced dental team conducts thorough examinations, discussing individual oral health goals and concerns with each patient. This in-depth understanding allows us to recommend the most suitable dental crown options based on the patient’s unique needs.
Traditional Porcelain Crowns
For a classic and natural appearance, traditional porcelain crowns are a popular choice at 4th Street Family Dentistry. These crowns are known for their lifelike translucency, mimicking the appearance of natural teeth. They are an excellent option for restoring front teeth, providing both durability and aesthetic appeal. Traditional porcelain crowns seamlessly blend with the surrounding teeth, creating a harmonious and beautiful smile.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
Combining the strength of metal with the aesthetic benefits of porcelain, Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) crowns offer a versatile solution for various dental needs. The metal substructure provides durability, while the porcelain outer layer provides a natural appearance. PFM crowns are commonly used for back teeth where strength is crucial, ensuring a balance between resilience and aesthetics.
All-Ceramic Crowns
Known for their exceptional aesthetics and biocompatibility, all-ceramic crowns are a popular choice at 4th Street Family Dentistry. These crowns are crafted entirely from ceramic materials, making them an ideal option for patients with metal sensitivities. All-ceramic crowns deliver a natural look, and advancements in materials ensure they are durable and long-lasting, providing a beautiful and resilient solution for various dental applications.
Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia crowns are renowned for their strength and durability. Crafted from the robust material zirconium oxide, these crowns are resistant to wear and fractures, making them an excellent choice for both front and back teeth. Zirconia crowns at 4th Street Family Dentistry offer a reliable and aesthetically pleasing solution for patients seeking long-lasting restorations.
Metal Crowns for Strength
Metal crowns, often made from alloys like gold or silver, are valued for their strength and durability. While not as aesthetically pleasing as porcelain options, metal crowns are ideal for back teeth that bear significant biting forces. At 4th Street Family Dentistry, we carefully consider the functional requirements of each patient when recommending metal crowns, ensuring optimal longevity and performance.
Comprehensive Crown Care
Achieving lasting success with dental crowns involves comprehensive care, and 4th Street Family Dentistry provides ongoing support. Regular check-ups, professional cleanings, and guidance on oral hygiene practices are essential to maintaining the health and longevity of dental crowns. Our commitment to patient satisfaction extends beyond the initial crown placement, ensuring a lasting and vibrant smile.
Contact Us Today! Crafting Radiant Smiles with Dental Crowns at 4th Street Family Dentistry
4th Street Family Dentistry in St. Petersburg, FL, stands as a beacon of dental excellence, offering a diverse range of dental crown options to suit every patient’s unique needs. As the Best Dentist in St. Petersburg, our commitment to personalized care, advanced technology, and comprehensive support sets us apart. If you’re considering dental crowns to restore, protect, or enhance your smile, contact us today for a consultation. Experience the transformative power of dental crowns at 4th Street Family Dentistry, where radiant smiles are crafted with precision and care.
Types of Dental Crowns
Different Types of Dental Crowns
If you’re in need of a dental crown, it’s important to know your options. Not all crowns serve the same purpose and understanding the different types can help you make an informed decision about which type is best for your specific situation. Here are some of the different types of dental crowns available from dentists in St. Petersburg, Florida and what they specialize in treating or restoring teeth that have been damaged due to decay, injury or other factors.
What is a Dental Crown and Its Benefits
Dental crowns are one of the most common restorative dental procedures that can help in preserving and enhancing teeth that have been damaged, decayed or discolored. A crown is essentially a cap or covering that is placed over a tooth to provide it with support, shape and strength. The crown can be made from a variety of materials. The benefits of dental crowns are numerous as they can help to protect against further decay, strengthen a damaged tooth, and improve the overall appearance of a smile. Crowns can also help to protect root canals or implants and are a durable solution that can last for many years with proper care and maintenance. Overall, dental crowns can provide a long-lasting solution that can help to restore your smile and improve dental health.
Different Types of Dental Crowns
When it comes to dental crowns, there are various types to choose from depending on your specific needs. Ceramic crowns are a popular choice due to their ability to blend seamlessly with natural teeth. They are durable and highly resistant to wear and tear, making them a suitable option for both front and back teeth. Implant crowns, on the other hand, are designed to be placed on top of dental implants to replace missing teeth. They provide a natural-looking and comfortable solution to restore your smile and improve your oral health. With advances in dental technology, there are now even more types of crowns available to meet the unique needs of each patient. Consulting with your dentist can help determine which type of crown is best for you.
– Ceramic Crowns
Ceramic crowns are a popular choice among dental professionals and patients alike. These crowns are made from a high-quality ceramic material that mimics the natural appearance of teeth, making them a great option for those who want to improve their smile. Ceramic crowns also have a number of other benefits, including a high level of durability and resistance to staining. Additionally, they are less likely to cause allergic reactions or other adverse reactions than other materials like metal. Overall, ceramic crowns offer a reliable, long-lasting solution for many dental patients who want to restore their teeth’s appearance and function. If you’re considering dental crowns, be sure to talk to your dentist about the benefits of ceramic crowns.
– Implant Crowns
Implant crowns are a modern dental solution that can restore the function and aesthetic appearance of missing teeth. The procedure involves placing a titanium screw into the jawbone, which serves as the root of the tooth. A custom-made ceramic crown is then attached to the implant, providing a natural-looking tooth replacement that is strong, durable, and long-lasting. Implant crowns offer several benefits over traditional dentures or bridges, including improved comfort, better functionality, and greater self-confidence. If you are considering implant crowns as a dental option, it is essential to work with an experienced and reputable dental professional who can guide you through each step of the process.
When Is a Dental Crown Necessary and How Long Does it Last
A dental crown is necessary when a tooth is severely damaged or weakened and needs to be protected and strengthened. It can also be used to improve the appearance of a tooth or to hold a dental bridge in place. Their durability depends on the material used, but on average, a crown can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years with proper care and maintenance. It’s important to continue practicing good oral hygiene, such as brushing and flossing, and to avoid habits like clenching or grinding your teeth that can damage the crown. Your dentist can provide you with specific instructions on how to care for your crown and how often it should be checked.
Cost and Insurance Coverage for Dental Crowns
When it comes to dental crowns, cost and insurance coverage are important factors to consider. The cost of a dental crown can vary depending on the materials used, the complexity of the procedure, and the geographic location of the dental office. However, with insurance coverage, many patients can offset a significant portion of the cost. It’s important to note that coverage may vary depending on the type of insurance plan and the specific details of the patient’s policy. By discussing options with their dental provider and insurance company, patients can gain a better understanding of the cost and coverage involved in getting a dental crown. Ultimately, the investment in a dental crown can lead to significant improvements in a patient’s oral health and overall quality of life.
Caring for Your Dental Crown After the Procedure
After undergoing the procedure of getting a dental crown, it is important to prioritize its care to ensure its longevity. A dental crown is an investment that requires attention and maintenance in order to keep it healthy and functional. One key way to care for your crown is to practice good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing twice a day and flossing daily. Additionally, avoiding hard or sticky foods and wearing a mouthguard during physical activities can prevent damage to the crown. It is also important to schedule regular dental check-ups with your dentist to ensure that the crown is still in good condition and functioning properly. By taking these steps, you can ensure the success of your dental crown for many years to come.
Contact Us Today
All in all, dental crowns come with a long list of advantages. They can provide cosmetic improvements, structural support for damaged teeth, and are much more durable than other restorative treatments. When you’re considering a dental crown, it’s important to know what type is right for your situation, how long it will last and how much it will cost — as well as the importance of proper maintenance to ensure your crown stays in its best condition over time. At 4th Street Family Dentistry, our team is dedicated to providing quality care that meets your individual needs. We take pride in helping you to keep your smile looking great with our wide range of preventive and restorative services. If you would like more information about getting a dental crown or any other type of dental service, please contact us today to schedule an appointment.
What To Do When A Dental Crown Falls Out
What To Do When A Dental Crown Falls Out
If your crown falls out, it’s important to act quickly to ensure that the tooth doesn’t become damaged. First, try to determine if the crown can be re-cemented. If so, carefully clean the crown and the tooth before applying a small amount of dental adhesive to the inside of the crown. Once in place, bite down on something soft to help hold the crown in place until you can see a dentist near you. If the crown cannot be re-cemented, or if you are unable to place it back on the tooth, keep it safe and bring it with you when you see the dentist. Be sure to see a dentist in St. Pete as soon as possible so that they can assess the situation and determine the best course of treatment.
Make Sure To Make A Dental Appointment Immediately
If you have a dental crown that has come loose or fallen off, it’s important to schedule an emergency dental appointment as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the greater the risk of the tooth becoming damaged or further decay, as talked about with our friends over at Shreveport Dental Solutions, a dentist in Shreveport LA. During your appointment, the dentist will first assess the tooth’s condition and determine if it can be reattached. If so, they will clean the tooth and then bond it back into place with special dental cement. Once the crown is successfully reattached, you can expect to experience relief from any discomfort or sensitivity you were feeling. It’s important to take good care of your teeth after having a crown reattached, so be sure to brush and floss regularly and see your St. Pete dentist for regular checkups.
Contact 4th Street Family Dentistry For Emergency Dental Care
At 4th Street Family Dentistry, we understand that dental emergencies near you can happen at any time. Whether you’re dealing with a toothache, chipped tooth, or lost filling, we are here to help. Our experienced team offers a full range of emergency dental services in St. Pete, and we will work diligently to get you out of pain as quickly as possible. We understand that dental emergencies can be stressful, which is why we offer a calm and relaxing environment for our patients. Contact 4th Street Family Dentistry today to schedule an appointment. We look forward to helping you get through this difficult time.
Benefits of Dental Crowns
Benefits of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are an efficient technique to repair a damaged tooth. Additionally, they provide a number of important benefits for your oral health. A crown can be the difference between preserving a natural tooth and extracting it. Today on the blog, our Dentist in St. Petersburg, Dr. Brian Leeson, discusses everything you need to know about the benefits of dental crowns.
The Many Benefits of Dental Crowns St. Pete
Our St. Pete dentist is proud to provide dental crowns for so many patients. Crowns provide people with a healthy, functioning, beautiful smile. Our team loves working with dental crowns because they help our patients with a number of concerns.
1. Crowns Relieve Discomfort
First, it’s important to note that dental crowns are often used to finish a restorative procedure. This can be used to correct enamel or structural damage. As follows, these issues frequently lead the tooth to become sensitive to warmth or pressure. Of course, the remaining section of the tooth must be safeguarded once the underlying issue has been treated, such as with a filling, root canal, or other therapy. Our dentist 33704 explains that a dental crown can protect your tooth from future damage while also reducing sensitivity.
2. They Are a Quick & Easy Procedure
You might believe that restorative dental treatments are difficult or time-consuming, but that’s not the case with crowns! Dental crowns are a relatively quick and easy procedure.
A crown is cast and then transported to a laboratory to be manufactured. Meanwhile, Dr. Brain Leeson will put a temporary crown to allow you to eat and function normally. When your crown is finished, you will return to our office to have it installed. Then, it will become a permanent part of your smile.
3. Crowns Are Fully Customized For You
Our dental lab staff will create a crown that is the same form, size, and color as your existing tooth. We provide a variety of materials based on your requirements and budget. Once the little pain surrounding the region fades, you’ll probably forget you’re wearing a crown, and no one will be able to tell.
4. They Can Improve the Appearance of Your Smile
Dental crowns are generally used to repair broken or injured teeth, but they also have aesthetic advantages. College Hill Dental, Easton PA Dentist, says that dental crowns are one of their most popular cosmetic dentistry options. This is because they quickly repair discoloration, malformed teeth, chips, cracks, and fractures. Because of these advantages, dental crowns are sometimes utilized to fulfill aesthetic dental goals.
5. Dental Crowns Are Long Lasting
Dental crown materials are meant to endure a long time and withstand the damage of chewing, biting, and grinding food. Crowns can last up to 30 years if you maintain good dental hygiene and get frequent examinations.
Dental Crowns in St. Pete
Ready to get your smile healthy and beautiful? Contact 4th Street Family Dentistry today! We’d love to discuss how dental crowns St. Pete can help you.
How to Repair a Broken Dental Crown
How to Repair a Broken Dental Crown in St. Pete
Sturdy as they may seem, our teeth aren’t immune to damage. Your teeth are susceptible to tooth decay and physical trauma. That’s where dental crowns come in. Said to be the single most productive procedure performed in dental practices, dental crowns are effective ‘caps’ that are placed over damaged teeth to restore their shape, size, strength, and appearance.
Dental crowns are usually used when the tooth is too damaged for dental fillings to restore functionality properly. On average, dental crowns can last between five to fifteen years, depending on the amount of wear and tear and your oral hygiene practices. But did you know crowns can get chipped or broken just like regular teeth? If you notice a chip or fracture in your crown, contact 4th Street Family Dentistry for emergency treatment.
Before you had your crowns installed, you probably had a conversation with your dentist in St. Petersburg, FL, to determine the type of crown that will work best for you. Crowns are usually made from a variety of different materials, and this determines how resistant they will be to damage. Ceramic and resin crowns are usually the least durable, while crowns made from base metal alloys, gold alloys, and porcelain fused with metal are highly durable.
Signs Your Dental Crown is Fractured or Broken
The best dentists in St. Petersburg, FL, will tell you that spotting a cracked or broken crown may not be easy, especially if you don’t visit the dentist regularly. Digital Doc, the maker of the best intraoral cameras, says that cracks may start out small, making it almost impossible for you to spot them with the naked eye. Seeing your St. Pete dentist twice a year will allow them to catch the issue and treat it while it’s still early.
If the crack isn’t treated soon enough, you may notice increased pain or sensitivity. The sensitivity will occcur while chewing, sensitivity to hot or cold foods, or bleeding at the affected tooth. A crown may break due to a blow to the face, a fall, grinding your teeth, wear and tear, or biting down on something hard. If your crown gets broken from physical trauma or chips off as you chew, contact an emergency dentist in St. Pete for treatment.
In certain circumstances, a painful crown may be a sign that the underlying tooth is the issue. If it can no longer support the crown, your dentist in St. Petersburg may have to extract it and install a dental implant to restore the tooth’s functionality.
What You Should Do if Your Dental Crown Breaks
While broken crowns aren’t usually considered an emergency, you may require emergency treatment if caused by a fall or blow to the face and cause intense pain. If you notice it, the first thing you ought to do is examine the area to see the extent of the damage before contacting a dentist in St. Pete for further guidance. Get a mirror and study the affected area if the broken crown is visible. Use your tongue to check for sensitivity. Are pieces of the crown missing or dislodged? Are there any jagged edges that may cut the inside of your mouth? Does the area feel sensitive to air or food?
While dentists don’t always recommend it, you may have to pull off the crown if there is a risk of swallowing it. If there is any bleeding, use a piece of gauze to gently apply pressure to the area. Dr. Ben Kacos, a sedation dentist in Shreveport, LA, says you can apply a little clove oil with a cotton swab or dental cement directly to the tooth surface if it feels sensitive. This will protect the remaining tooth and reduce the pain and sensitivity until you can finally see a dentist.
Treatment for a Broken Crown
Make sure you see a dentist within 5-7 days of your dental crown breaking, even if it isn’t causing you too much pain. Leaving it for too long creates the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and leads to infection down the road. If you are afraid of brushing around the broken crown before your dentist’s appointment, you can use mouthwash or a saltwater solution after brushing to kill off bacteria.
The dentist will thoroughly clean and examine the remaining tooth and crown to assess the damage’s extent. If the crown is too damaged to be reapplied and the tooth is strong enough to hold a new dental crown, you will be fitted with a temporary crown while a new permanent crown is fabricated. Your St. Petersburg, FL dentist can also bond a composite resin to a porcelain crown to repair the crown if it has a minor crack or fracture. However, this requires a very specific porcelain repair kit, and not every dentist has it.
If it turns out that the underlying tooth was the problem, you may have to undergo a tooth extraction. Then have a dental implant installed once you heal. While they can be uncomfortable, broken dental crowns are entirely fixable. Whether through bonding with a composite resin or outright replacing them. Leaving a broken crown in could lead to more severe dental problems down the road. Are you looking for a dentist to fix a broken crown? Contact 4th Family Street Dentistry for emergency treatment today.