What Are the Advantages of Porcelain Crowns?
Our Nashville dentist has extensive expertise in the use of porcelain crowns to restore damaged or decayed teeth. Dr. Clint Newman and the rest of our practiced team are happy to discuss the benefits of porcelain crowns and other cosmetic and restorative dentistry procedures.
At our dentistry practice in Nashville, porcelain crowns can be applied in as few as two visits. They are specifically designed to match and fit your own teeth, blending in naturally and comfortably. Porcelain crowns can strengthen your damaged or otherwise compromised teeth, restoring their functionality and appearance.
Uses of Dental Crowns
Crowns can restore your damaged, weakened, or stained teeth. Porcelain crowns can:
- Fix broken or cracked teeth
- Improve the appearance of an unsightly tooth
- Top off a dental implant
- Protect weakened or damaged teeth
- Hide or cover up unattractive fillings
Crowns are long-lasting, but may have to be replaced eventually. They are cemented in place and should look and feel like your natural teeth.
How Crowns are Applied
After discussing your options, our Nashville dentist, Dr. Newman, will clean your natural tooth or teeth and take a mold from which your crown will be made. Porcelain crowns are durable and can be easily manipulated to match the color of your own teeth. Your crown is constructed to fit the mold of your tooth and then sent to our practice. Porcelain crowns are a form of indirect tooth replacement, meaning they are made out of office because they are custom formed and cast to fit your tooth and complement your smile. Additionally, porcelain crowns are fabricated using intense heat, which cannot be applied within your mouth.
Just as the materials used to construct crowns has evolved, so has the methods with which they are designed. Many dentistry labs utilize computer imaging and other technology to make your porcelain crown to exact specifications.
During your second visit, your crown is placed on your tooth to make sure that it properly fits and does not obstruct your natural bite. It should allow you to continue your normal dental hygiene regimen, including brushing, flossing, and rinsing.
If the porcelain crown fits properly, as it should, it is then cemented or bonded in place. It should provide support and stability similar to a natural, healthy tooth and will allow you to function normally in your day-to-day activities.
Crowns can also be applied to your dental implants if you have them, locking in place to metal posts that are affixed to your jawbone.
Why Porcelain?
Porcelain crowns are a better option than other types of crowns in many ways. They discreetly blend with the rest of your teeth. They are also stronger, more attractive, and natural looking than metal crowns. Porcelain crowns are especially well suited to teeth in the “smile line” or the parts of your teeth exposed when you smile and talk. Another option is a porcelain-fused-to-metal crown, which is made of metal, upon which porcelain is fused, providing a similar appearance as a full porcelain crown.
Dr. Newman and our practiced staff are happy to speak with you about porcelain crowns and your specific dentistry needs. For more information on our dentistry services in Nashville, including porcelain crowns and other cosmetic and general procedures, please contact us today.