You may have heard of a crown and thought of royalty, but this isn’t the only type of crown available. At Gentle Dentistry, we provide restorations called porcelain dental crowns, which are restorations made to cap a natural tooth and offer an extra layer of protection and strength to an otherwise weakened or susceptible tooth. Dr. Loc Tong of Gentle Dentistry in Tampa, Florida, is here to help with restorative treatments, including dental crowns.
What Is A Dental Crown?
A porcelain crown is a restoration made to cover a tooth. It has the advantage of looking exactly like the tooth it is protecting, as crowns can be created to match the patient’s existing teeth. That allows the dentist to perfectly color-match the crown to the patient’s smile and keep it from looking significantly different from the rest of the smile for seamless integration. When placed correctly and adjusted appropriately, it will also mimic your current bite. By providing a natural look, there is little evidence of even having dental work done.
Why Porcelain Crowns?
Porcelain crowns are a much better choice for patients, especially those with a metal allergy. Because they do not contain any metal, no adverse reactions can occur. They are also far more aesthetically pleasing and natural-looking than older-generation crowns. With proper care, patients will find that their porcelain crowns will last many years, even a decade or more for many of our patients.
How Do I Care For My Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns do not require any more care than the rest of the teeth. Patients who brush, floss, and visit their dentist regularly will only have minor issues with their crowns. Patients who have been diagnosed with conditions such as bruxism, which can cause clenching and grinding of the teeth, may want to ask about wearing a mouthguard at night to protect their dental crowns and other teeth from unwanted damage.
Do Porcelain Crowns Stain?
Absolutely not! The porcelain used to create our dental crowns is not porous like natural tooth enamel, and therefore, maintains its original shade and color from the day it was placed. Natural teeth, however, are susceptible to staining.
Ready to work with the team at Gentle Dentistry?
In Tampa, Florida, Dr. Loc Tong has helped many patients enhance their smiles with porcelain dental caps. If you are considering porcelain crowns or other dental restorations, call our office at (813) 734-7102 and visit us at 3500 East Fletcher Avenue, Suite #221.
Porcelain Crowns FAQs
How long does the porcelain crown process usually take from start to finish?
Most patients complete the porcelain crown treatment over two visits. During the first appointment, we will shape the tooth, take detailed impressions or digital scans, and place a temporary crown to protect it. The second visit is scheduled once our trusted dental lab has provided the custom porcelain crown. During this visit, we will check the fit, make any necessary adjustments, and securely bond the crown in place. The entire process usually spans two to three weeks, depending on scheduling and lab turnaround times. In some cases, a follow-up visit may be needed for minor bite adjustments after the crown is placed.
What symptoms indicate that a tooth may require a porcelain crown rather than a filling?
We recommend a porcelain crown when a tooth shows significant structural damage. Symptoms may include deep fractures, large fillings that are failing, persistent discomfort when biting, or enamel loss that exposes sensitive areas of the tooth. For teeth that have had root canal treatment, a crown can provide essential support to prevent fractures. Additionally, when cosmetic improvements are desired alongside tooth reinforcement, a porcelain crown serves as an effective solution.
Are porcelain crowns comfortable, and how long does it take to adjust to them?
Porcelain crowns are meticulously crafted to align with your natural bite, ensuring a comfortable fit once in place. Most patients find themselves acclimating within a few days, although some mild sensitivity may occur as the tooth adjusts. If you experience any discomfort, such as a crown feeling uneven or creating tension while chewing, we can quickly address these concerns with chairside adjustments to ensure a balanced bite for your long-term comfort.
How long do porcelain crowns last with proper care?
We emphasize that porcelain crowns are built for long-term durability. With consistent daily brushing and flossing along with regular dental check-ups, many of our crowns last a decade or more. To maximize their longevity, we advise avoiding habits such as chewing ice, biting fingernails, or using teeth as tools. Patients who commit to routine preventive cleanings are more likely to identify potential issues early and keep their crowns in excellent condition.
What does a porcelain crown cost, and does dental insurance typically cover it?
The cost of porcelain crowns varies based on several factors, including the location of the tooth, the type of material used, and the condition of the underlying tooth. Many dental insurance plans may provide partial coverage for crowns deemed necessary structural restorations rather than purely cosmetic fixes. We encourage patients to consult with our office to review their insurance benefits and obtain an estimate of expected out-of-pocket expenses before proceeding with treatment.
How can I find a dentist near me in Tampa, Florida, who offers porcelain crowns?
To find a qualified provider of porcelain crowns in Tampa, consider looking for a practice where you’ll find experienced professionals committed to restorative dentistry. At our office, we utilize advanced imaging technology and prioritize patient satisfaction, making scheduling convenient and ensuring accessible follow-up care to support your long-term restoration.
What are the key benefits of porcelain crowns for long-term oral health?
Porcelain crowns play a critical role in enhancing oral health by reinforcing compromised teeth, restoring normal chewing function, and preventing further wear or cracking. By strengthening weakened structures, they support the health of adjacent teeth and help maintain proper alignment. Their natural appearance also elevates the aesthetic quality of your smile, fostering lasting confidence and improved dental well-being.
