Dental Crown FAQs: Everything You Need To Know
Your teeth work hard every day, but over time, they can take a hit—whether from an accidental chip, gradual wear, or decay. When a tooth becomes too weak to support itself, a dental crown can provide the strength and protection it needs while keeping your smile looking natural.
At Tomase Dental Care in Toledo, OH, we offer durable, metal-free crowns that restore function and appearance without compromising comfort. Here’s what you need to know about dental crowns and how they can help you maintain a strong, healthy smile.
What Is a Dental Crown, and When Is It Needed?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that fits over a damaged or weakened tooth, restoring its strength, shape, and function. Unlike a filling, which only repairs part of a tooth, a crown provides full coverage to protect it from further damage.
We often recommend crowns for:
- Cracked or broken teeth
- Teeth with large fillings
- Teeth weakened by decay or a root canal
- Supporting a dental bridge or covering a dental implant
With a crown, patients can regain the function and confidence of a healthy tooth while maintaining a natural-looking smile.
Will a Crown Look and Feel Natural?
Yes! Modern dental crowns are designed to blend seamlessly with natural teeth. At Tomase Dental Care, we offer metal-free crowns that mimic the look of real enamel, ensuring a bright, natural appearance. Each crown is custom made to match the size, shape, and color of surrounding teeth, so it looks and feels just like a natural tooth.
What Is the Process for Getting a Crown?
Getting a dental crown typically involves two visits.
First Visit: Preparing the Tooth
To ensure a secure and natural fit, we begin by reshaping the affected tooth. After shaping the tooth, we take digital impressions to design a custom crown with exceptional accuracy—no messy molds required. Before you leave, we place a temporary crown to protect the tooth until your permanent crown is ready.
Second Visit: Placing the Final Crown
Once your custom crown is ready, you’ll return for the final placement. We carefully remove the temporary crown and position the new one over your tooth, checking for a precise, comfortable fit and making small adjustments if needed. When everything looks and feels right, we securely bond the crown in place. With advanced digital technology, the process is more efficient, comfortable, and designed to provide long-lasting results.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
Dental crowns can last 10 to 15 years or even longer with proper care. Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits greatly influence their longevity. To help extend the life of a crown:
- Brush and floss daily, just like with natural teeth.
- Avoid chewing on extremely hard foods like ice or popcorn kernels.
- Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth while sleeping.
- Schedule routine checkups to ensure the crown stays in great shape.
Is a Crown the Right Choice for You?
If you have a damaged or weakened tooth, a dental crown may be the best way to restore its strength and protect your smile. At Tomase Dental Care, we customize every crown to fit comfortably and look natural—so you can smile, eat, and speak confidently.
If you’re considering a dental crown, contact our dental office located in Toledo, OH to schedule a consultation and explore the best option for your smile.