Dental crowns and veneers can be used to restore your teeth to improve function as well as to enhance their appearance. Modern advancements in dentistry make it possible for these restorations to feel comfortable and look more natural than ever.
Dental crowns are commonly referred to as “caps”, where the dental crown surrounds the visible portion of the entire tooth. They are typically used when natural teeth are damaged by decay or trauma. Because the crown encases the tooth completely, it is used to protect and strengthen your tooth so that you can function and chew without worry. This method is extremely reliable for repairing the most severe of dental problems. At Sloan Creek Dental, we use metal-free crowns that are both durable and natural-looking so you can smile confidently.
Your smile may benefit from a dental crown if a tooth is damaged or decayed to the point that a dental filling will not provide a successful restoration. Dental crowns are less invasive, preserves the natural tooth structure, and require much less recovery time than dental implants because the natural tooth does not have to be extracted. Most commonly, dental crowns are used in an effort to correct the following dental scenarios:
At Sloan Creek Dental, we use porcelain crowns as they are the most popular type of crown used nowadays because of the durability of the material compared to other types of crowns. Some advantages of using porcelain crowns are:
Crown placement is a two-step process that involves two visits to our office. On the first visit, impressions of the tooth will be taken which will be used to create your very own custom crown. This impression will be sent to the lab where it will be fabricated by a dental laboratory.
While the crown is being crafted, the dentist will clean and remove any decay, and shape the surface of the tooth to properly fit the crown. Once these details are complete, we’ll fit you a temporary restoration so the tooth is not exposed. Once your permanent crown is in, you will come back to the office where we will remove your temporary crown, the tooth will be cleaned prior to placing the permanent crown onto the tooth, and the dentist will ensure the spacing and bite are accurate.
Your crown should be considered just like your real tooth. With a healthy oral hygiene routine like brushing and flossing regularly, going to the dentist for general check-ups and cleanings, your crown will last for a very long time.
Unlike a crown that covers the entire tooth, a dental veneer is bonded only to the front of the tooth. Veneers offer a more conservative option to transform the appearance of your teeth while looking and feeling just like your natural tooth. Veneers can be used to change the shape, size, or color of teeth so that you can have a smile you have always dreamed of.
With porcelain veneers, you can fix dental problems and achieve a gorgeous smile without sacrificing your comfort. Most commonly, many people choose porcelain veneers in an effort to correct the following dental scenarios:
The process of getting veneers is slightly the same as getting a crown. It requires two visits to complete the process, with little or no anesthesia required during the procedure.
After the initial exam to see if you have an adequate amount of tooth enamel and are free of any major dental problems, the first visit is where we prepare the teeth by lightly buffing a small amount of your natural enamel, and shaping the surface to allow for the correct thickness of the veneer. Doing so will allow the veneer to lay flat and in line with your gum tissue. A mold will take an impression of the prepared teeth with the chosen shade (color) chosen by you, which will be sent to a dental lab for your veneers. During this time, we will secure a temporary veneer using removable glue while we wait for your veneers to be made.
Once your permanent veneers are ready, you will come back for a second visit where your teeth will be cleansed with special liquids to achieve a durable bond. Prior to bonding the veneer onto the teeth, we will make any adjustments needed to ensure a great fit. Once everything is set, a bonding cement is then placed between the tooth and veneer, and a curing light is used to harden and set the bond.
You will receive care instructions for veneers. Proper brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new veneers.
With proper care, you can treat your veneers like your regular teeth. If you already have a solid oral hygiene routine, you probably won’t need to change it to care for your veneers. You just need to brush, floss, and routine dental checkups will keep your veneers in tip top shape!
If you think you need a crown or veneer but aren’t sure which one is the best option for you, then schedule a visit to see Dr. Feng, your cosmetic dentist in Fairview, TX. If it’s a smile makeover that you’re after, rest assured as Dr. Feng believes in using the most conservative approach to achieve your desired outcome of improving your smile and the function of your teeth. You can rest assured your dental needs will be taken care of in a thoughtful and attentive manner.
