When Your Tooth Needs a Crown
Several situations make dental crowns the ideal treatment choice. Dr. Scollard carefully evaluates each tooth to determine when a crown provides the best long-term outcome compared to other restorative options like fillings or inlays.
Common Reasons for Crown Treatment:
- Large cavities that compromise tooth structure
- Cracked or fractured teeth requiring reinforcement
- Teeth weakened by previous large fillings
- Root canal-treated teeth needing protection
- Severely worn teeth from grinding or acid erosion
- Cosmetic improvement of misshapen or discolored teeth
Teeth that have undergone root canal treatment particularly benefit from crown protection. The procedure removes the tooth’s nerve and blood supply, making the remaining structure more brittle and prone to fracture. A crown provides the strength needed to withstand normal chewing forces for many years.
Sometimes a tooth experiences trauma that creates cracks extending into the tooth structure. While these cracks might not cause immediate pain, they can worsen over time and lead to tooth loss if left untreated. Crowns prevent crack propagation and preserve your natural tooth.
The Crown Treatment Process at Our Practice
Dr. Scollard begins every crown case with a thorough examination and discussion of your treatment goals. She explains exactly what the procedure involves and answers any questions about the process or materials. Digital imaging helps visualize the tooth structure and plan the optimal crown design.
The first appointment involves preparing your tooth to receive the crown. This process removes damaged or decayed portions while shaping the remaining tooth structure to support the crown properly. Dr. Scollard takes precise impressions that capture every detail needed for creating your custom restoration.
A temporary crown protects your prepared tooth while the permanent crown is being crafted. This temporary restoration allows you to eat and speak normally, though you’ll want to avoid especially hard or sticky foods during this period.
Your second appointment typically occurs within two to three weeks. Dr. Scollard removes the temporary crown, checks the fit and appearance of your permanent crown, and makes any necessary adjustments before cementing it permanently in place.
Crown Materials That Meet Your Needs
Modern crown materials offer excellent durability and natural appearance. Dr. Scollard helps you choose the material that best suits your specific tooth location, bite forces, and aesthetic preferences.
Porcelain Crowns: Porcelain provides the most natural appearance, making it ideal for front teeth where aesthetics are paramount. These crowns can be color-matched precisely to your surrounding teeth and resist staining over time.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns: These crowns combine the strength of metal with the beauty of porcelain. The metal core provides exceptional durability for back teeth that endure heavy chewing forces, while the porcelain exterior maintains a natural appearance.
All-Ceramic Crowns: Ceramic materials offer excellent aesthetics without any metal components. These crowns work particularly well for patients with metal sensitivities or those who prefer completely metal-free restorations.
The choice of material depends on factors like the tooth’s location, your bite pattern, and aesthetic requirements. Dr. Scollard discusses the advantages of each option to help you make an informed decision.
Caring for Your Crown Investment
Properly maintained crowns can last 15 to 30 years or even longer with good care. The longevity of your crown depends largely on your oral hygiene habits and regular dental maintenance. Dr. Scollard provides specific instructions for caring for your new crown to maximize its lifespan.
Daily brushing and flossing remain essential for crown maintenance. While the crown itself cannot develop cavities, the underlying tooth structure and gums still require protection from bacteria and plaque buildup. Special attention to the gum line helps prevent problems that could compromise your crown’s stability.
Regular dental checkups allow Dr. Scollard to monitor your crown’s condition and address any issues before they become serious problems. Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar that could affect the crown’s margins or surrounding tissues.
Why Choose Dr. Scollard & Associates for Crown Treatment
Dr. Andrea Scollard’s attention to detail ensures that every crown fits precisely and looks completely natural. Her experience with various crown materials and techniques allows for optimal treatment planning that considers both immediate needs and long-term oral health goals.
The practice combines advanced technology with personalized care to create crowns that exceed expectations for both function and appearance. Located conveniently in West Springfield, our team serves patients throughout the Pioneer Valley region who value quality dental care.
You’ll appreciate the comfortable treatment environment and clear communication throughout your crown treatment. Dr. Scollard explains each step of the process and ensures you understand how to care for your restoration after placement.
Protecting Your Smile’s Future
Crowns represent an excellent investment in your oral health and confidence. They allow you to keep your natural tooth rather than requiring extraction and replacement options like implants or bridges. This conservative approach preserves your jawbone structure and maintains optimal function.
Ready to restore your damaged tooth with a beautiful, durable crown? Contact Dr. Scollard & Associates Family Dentistry PLLC today to schedule your consultation and discover how crown treatment can strengthen your smile for years to come.
