If you have a damaged or weakened tooth, dental crowns offer a reliable, long-lasting solution to restore both the function and appearance of your smile. At Alpine Dental Care in Cortez, Colorado, we specialize in providing high-quality, custom-made dental crowns that protect and strengthen teeth. Whether you have a cracked tooth, a large cavity, or need to restore a tooth after a root canal, Dr. Pyle and our team are here to provide you with durable, natural-looking crowns that blend seamlessly with your smile.

What Are Dental Crowns?

A dental crown, also known as a “cap,” is a custom-made covering that fits over a damaged tooth to restore its shape, strength, and appearance. Crowns are often used when a tooth is too damaged to be repaired with a simple filling but still healthy enough to be saved. Made from strong materials like porcelain or ceramic, crowns are designed to look and feel just like natural teeth.

When Do You Need a Dental Crown?

A dental crown may be recommended if you have:

  • A cracked or broken tooth: Crowns provide strength and protection to teeth that are cracked or structurally compromised.
  • A large cavity: If a tooth has significant decay that cannot be repaired with a filling, a crown can protect and restore the tooth.
  • A root canal: After a root canal procedure, a crown is often placed to protect the weakened tooth.
  • A worn-down tooth: Teeth that are worn down from grinding (bruxism) or other factors may benefit from crowns to restore function.
  • Cosmetic improvements: Crowns can also be used to enhance the appearance of misshapen or severely discolored teeth.

Benefits of Dental Crowns

  • Restores Function: Crowns allow you to eat, chew, and speak normally by restoring the strength of a damaged tooth.
  • Protects Weakened Teeth: Crowns help protect compromised teeth from further damage, preventing the need for extraction.
  • Natural Appearance: Modern dental crowns are made from materials that mimic the look of natural teeth, ensuring a seamless and attractive result.
  • Durable and Long-lasting: With proper care, crowns can last for many years, providing a strong and reliable solution for tooth restoration.

The Dental Crown Process

Getting a dental crown typically involves two visits:

  1. First Visit – Tooth Preparation and Impression: Dr. Pyle will carefully prepare the tooth by removing damaged or decayed areas. Then, we’ll take impressions of your tooth to create a custom crown. A temporary crown may be placed while your permanent crown is being crafted in the lab.
  2. Second Visit – Crown Placement: Once your custom crown is ready, it will be bonded securely to your tooth, and Dr. Pyle will make any necessary adjustments to ensure a perfect fit.

Dental Crowns FAQs

How long do dental crowns last?

Dental crowns can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years or longer with proper care. Maintaining good oral hygiene and attending regular dental checkups will help extend the life of your crown.

Are crowns noticeable?

No, crowns are designed to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, making them virtually indistinguishable. Porcelain and ceramic crowns are especially popular for their lifelike appearance.

Is getting a dental crown painful?

The process of getting a crown is typically painless. We use local anesthesia to numb the area during preparation, ensuring that you remain comfortable throughout the procedure.

How should I care for my dental crown?

Caring for a crown is similar to caring for natural teeth. Brush and floss regularly, and avoid biting down on hard objects to prevent damaging the crown. Regular dental checkups will also ensure your crown stays in great shape.

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Restore Your Smile with Dental Crowns at Alpine Dental Care!

If you have a damaged tooth, a custom dental crown can restore its function and appearance. At Alpine Dental Care, we offer durable, natural-looking crowns to protect and strengthen your teeth. Call (970) 565-3612 today to schedule a consultation and find out how a dental crown can improve your smile!