Dental crowns offer many benefits for your oral health. They restore function, enhance appearance, and protect damaged teeth. Dr. Jennifer Mohr provides complete dental care, including treatment with same-day dental crowns in Tucson, AZ. Tooth crowns are a key part of restorative dentistry. They’re designed to improve tooth function and appearance after damage or decay.
Types of Dental Crowns
Our practice offers several types of dental crowns to meet your unique needs. In addition, our technology (CEREC) allows us to create crowns in our office on the same day.
Porcelain Crowns
These crowns are popular due to their natural look. They blend seamlessly with your existing teeth, providing a perfect aesthetic match. Many patients choose porcelain crowns for their front teeth since they are highly visible when you smile or talk.
Metal Crowns
These crowns are known for their durability and strength. Metal crowns are best for molars, which require a tough material to withstand chewing forces. Though they may not match the color of natural teeth, their durability makes them a reliable option for back teeth.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns
PFM crowns offer the best of both worlds. They provide the strength of metal crowns while maintaining the appearance of porcelain. This combination is ideal for patients who need durable yet aesthetically pleasing crowns.
Why Do I Need a Dental Crown?
After a consultation, Dr. Mohr can tell you why you need a dental crown.
- Tooth Decay: When a tooth has a large cavity that’s too big for a filling, a crown can help. It covers the tooth, protecting it from further decay and restoring its function so you can bite and chew properly.
- Tooth Damage: If your tooth is cracked or fractured, a crown can help repair it. It covers the entire tooth, making it stronger and preventing it from breaking even more. This can help you keep using your tooth normally without worrying about damage. If you grind your teeth or have worn teeth from age, a tooth crown can help restore the tooth’s size and shape.
- Root Canal Therapy: If you’ve had a root canal to treat an infected tooth you will often need a crown afterward. The root canal weakens the tooth, so the crown provides extra strength and protection. It helps keep the tooth intact and stable.
- Cosmetic Purposes: A dental crown can improve the look of a tooth. If you have a tooth that is discolored, misshapen, or just doesn’t look good, a crown can make it look better. Crowns are often used in smile makeovers to make your smile look more uniform and attractive.
- Dental Bridge: A traditional dental bridge uses support from natural teeth on either side of a tooth gap. These teeth use crowns.
- Large Fillings: If a tooth has had a large filling for a long time, it can become weaker. A crown can be placed over the tooth to protect it and prevent it from breaking or cracking.
The Dental Crown Procedure
CEREC dental technology allows you to get a crown in just one visit. Here’s what happens during the treatment:
Consultation and Preparation
First, your dentist will examine your tooth and take images of it using a special camera. This helps the dentist see the condition of your tooth and decide if a crown is the best option for you. They may numb the area around the tooth to make sure you’re comfortable.
Next, the dentist will shape your tooth to prepare it for the crown. They will remove any decayed or damaged parts and make sure the tooth is ready to hold the crown securely.
Digital Impressions
Instead of using messy molds, CEREC technology uses a digital camera to take a 3D image of your tooth. This image is sent to a computer that designs your crown. The process is quick and accurate, and it means you don’t have to wait for a traditional mold to be made.
Crown Design and Milling
Once the crown is designed on the computer, CEREC creates it in the office with a milling machine. This machine cuts the crown out of a solid piece of porcelain for a precise fit.
Crown Placement
After the crown is made, our dentist will check its fit and make sure it looks natural. If everything is perfect, we will bond the crown to your tooth. The whole process usually takes about 1-2 hours, so you’ll leave the office with your new crown in place.
Once the crown is placed, our dentist will make any final adjustments to ensure it feels comfortable when you bite and chew. You’ll be able to eat and drink normally right away.
How to Care for Dental Crowns in Tucson, AZ
Maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial. Brush twice daily and floss regularly to keep your crowns and natural teeth in excellent condition. You should also schedule regular dental visits to Dr. Mohr’s Tucson dentist office. These check-ups help keep track of your crowns and detect any issues early on.
Some sensitivity or discomfort may occur after the procedure. You can manage this with over-the-counter pain relievers or by following Dr. Mohr’s personalized care guidelines.
Dental Crown FAQs
Read common questions about dental crowns from patients in our Tucson, AZ office to learn more:
Am I a candidate for same-day crowns?
The best candidates for same-day crowns have good oral health and enough of the natural tooth left. If needed, we can treat problems like tooth decay and gum disease before we provide crowns. Our dentist will ensure your teeth and gums are in good shape so the crown will fit well and last long.
How much of my natural tooth do I need to get crowns?
You need 2 mm or at least a quarter of your natural tooth left to get crowns. If you do not have enough of your natural tooth left, we may recommend extraction. Then, we can replace your tooth with a dental implant.
How much are crowns?
The cost of dental crowns in Tucson, AZ, depends on the number of crowns and the crown material. We will review the estimated cost of your crowns before treatment. Mohr Smiles also accepts PPO insurance plans to cover part of the cost of treatment.
Why are my crowns sensitive?
If your dental crowns feel sensitive, there could be a few reasons why. Some crowns are made with metal materials, especially older ones. Metal can sometimes make crowns feel more sensitive, particularly when exposed to hot or cold temperatures.
If your crowns aren’t made of metal, the sensitivity might be a sign of a different problem. One common reason is a tooth or gum infection underneath or around the crown. Infections can cause discomfort or sensitivity because they irritate the tooth or the surrounding tissues.
Talk to our dentist if your crowns feel sensitive. Dr. Mohr can check to see what’s causing the problem and recommend the best solution to keep your smile comfortable and healthy.
How long does it take for a dental crown to feel normal in my mouth?
It might take a few days for a dental crown to feel completely normal in your mouth. Right after the crown is placed, it might feel a little odd or uncomfortable as your mouth gets used to it. Most people adjust in a day or two, but if it still feels strange or if you have pain after a week, it’s a good idea to visit your dentist to make any needed adjustments.
Will a crown blend in with my other teeth?
Yes, a crown can blend in with your other teeth. We match the color, shape, and size of the crown to your surrounding teeth, so it looks natural in your smile. If you’re worried about it standing out, our dentist will work with you to ensure you’re happy with the result.
Why should I replace my metal crowns?
You might want to replace your metal crowns for a few reasons. First, metal crowns can stand out when you smile, especially if they are on front teeth. Replacing them with porcelain crowns can help make your smile look more natural.
In some cases, metal crowns can cause sensitivity in your teeth. A new crown might help if you feel discomfort. Also, if you’re getting other dental treatments like new fillings or veneers, replacing your metal crowns can help your teeth look uniform.
How much are same-day crowns?
The cost of same-day crowns depends on the type of materials and insurance coverage. They are often more expensive than traditional crowns because they are made quickly, using advanced technology.
We accept financing from Care Credit and accept PPO plans to help make the cost more manageable. Our dentist can give you an exact price based on your needs.
Protect Your Teeth
Get custom dental crowns in our Tucson, AZ, dental office. Call Mohr Smiles Dentistry today at 520-660-5666 or schedule an appointment online. We’re here to help you get same-day restorations so you can get your dream smile in no time.