When Do You Need a Dental Crown?
Your Arlington dentist may recommend a crown when:
- A tooth is cracked, fractured, or broken
- Decay is too extensive for a filling to repair
- A tooth has been weakened by a large existing filling
- You have had a root canal, and the tooth needs protection
- A dental implant needs a restoration cap
- A dental bridge requires anchor support
- You want to improve the appearance of a severely discolored or misshapen tooth
What to Expect: The Crown Placement Process
Getting a dental crown at Gentle Dental Arlington is typically a two-visit process, though same-day options may be available depending on your case. Here's how it works:
Visit 1: Tooth Preparation & Impressions
- Your dentist numbs the area with local anesthesia to keep you comfortable.
- A small amount of enamel is removed to create room for the crown.
- Digital or physical impressions of your tooth are taken and sent to a dental lab.
- A temporary crown is placed to protect your tooth while your permanent crown is being crafted, typically within two to three weeks.
Visit 2: Crown Placement
- Your temporary crown is removed, and the area is cleaned.
- Your permanent crown is checked for fit, shape, and color match.
- Once you and your dentist are satisfied, the crown is bonded permanently in place.
- Your bite is adjusted as needed, and you leave with a fully restored tooth.
Dental Crown vs. Filling, Veneer, or Bridge
Different dental treatments are designed for different needs. During your visit at Gentle Dental Arlington, your dentist will evaluate your tooth, understand your concerns, and recommend whether a crown, filling, veneer, or bridge is the best option for restoring your smile.
A dental crown is often recommended for a tooth that is cracked, weakened, decayed, or heavily restored. It covers the entire visible portion of the tooth to help restore strength, shape, appearance, and normal function.
A dental filling is typically used for small to moderate cavities. It repairs the damaged area of the tooth while helping preserve as much natural tooth structure as possible.
A dental veneer is mainly used for cosmetic concerns on the front surface of the teeth. Veneers can improve the appearance of chips, gaps, stains, uneven shape, or minor smile imperfections.
A dental bridge may be recommended when one or more teeth are missing. It helps fill the gap by using nearby teeth or dental implants for support, restoring both your smile and your bite.