Dental crowns in Hampton can restore and protect teeth that are cracked, badly decayed, worn down, or weakened after root canal treatment. A crown covers the visible portion of a damaged tooth, helping restore its strength, shape, appearance, and function.
At Allred Family Dentistry, Dr. Marc Allred and Dr. Ben Allred help patients in Hampton and Griffin understand when a crown may be appropriate, which materials may work best, and what to expect during treatment.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped restoration that covers the visible portion of a damaged or weakened tooth. It helps restore the tooth’s shape, size, strength, and function while protecting the remaining natural structure.
A dentist may recommend a crown when a tooth can no longer reliably support a large filling, has been damaged by decay or injury, or needs additional protection after root canal therapy. Crowns can also improve the appearance of teeth that are misshapen or significantly discolored.
When Is a Dental Crown Recommended?
A dentist may recommend a crown when a tooth is too damaged or weakened for a filling alone to provide enough protection.
Common reasons for crown treatment include:
- Deep decay that has weakened the tooth
- A cracked or fractured tooth
- A tooth weakened by a large filling
- A tooth that has undergone root canal treatment
- A misshapen or heavily discolored tooth
By covering and protecting the remaining tooth structure, a crown can help restore comfortable chewing and reduce the risk of additional damage.
Types of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns can be made from several materials, including porcelain-fused-to-metal, full ceramic, and metal. The right material depends on factors such as the tooth’s location, biting forces, appearance, and the amount of healthy tooth structure remaining.
Ceramic crowns are often selected when a natural-looking appearance is especially important because they can closely match the color and translucency of nearby teeth. Other materials may be considered when strength or biting pressure is a greater concern.
Dr. Marc Allred or Dr. Ben Allred can discuss your options and recommend a material based on your tooth, bite, and treatment needs.
Benefits of a Dental Crown
A dental crown can:
- Protect a weakened tooth from further breakage
- Restore chewing function and comfort
- Improve the appearance of a misshapen or discolored tooth
- Protect a tooth weakened by a large filling
- Help preserve a tooth after root canal therapy
By strengthening and covering the remaining tooth structure, a crown may reduce the risk of additional damage and help preserve the tooth.
What to Expect During the Dental Crown Procedure
Traditional dental crown treatment usually takes two appointments.
During the first visit, your dentist examines the tooth and may take digital X-rays to evaluate the area and plan treatment. Local anesthesia is used while the tooth is prepared for the crown. An impression is then taken, and a temporary crown protects the tooth while the dental lab creates the final restoration.
At the follow-up appointment, the temporary crown is removed, and the final crown is checked for fit, appearance, and bite alignment. Once the fit is confirmed, the crown is cemented into place, and any needed bite adjustments are made.
While wearing a temporary crown, continue brushing gently and flossing carefully around the area. Call the office if the temporary crown becomes loose or if you experience unusual pain.
Dental Crown FAQs
How long do dental crowns last?
With proper care, dental crowns can last for many years. Daily brushing and flossing, along with regular dental checkups, can help limit wear and reduce the risk of decay developing around the crown’s edge.
Does getting a dental crown hurt?
Local anesthesia is used during tooth preparation to help keep you comfortable. Some mild sensitivity after the procedure can occur and often improves within a few days.
Can a dental crown match my natural teeth?
Yes. Ceramic crowns can be matched to the color of surrounding teeth and are designed to provide a natural-looking result.
How many appointments does a dental crown require?
Traditional dental crowns usually require two appointments. The first visit is used to prepare the tooth and place a temporary crown. At the second visit, the final crown is fitted and cemented into place.
Dental labs typically return the completed crown within 1 to 3 weeks.
What should I do if my crown feels too high?
If your crown feels uneven or too high when you bite, call our office. A bite adjustment can help the crown feel more natural and comfortable.
Do dental crowns require special care?
Crowns generally do not require a special cleaning routine. Brush with fluoride toothpaste, floss around the crown, and keep up with regular dental visits.
Can a dental crown chip or break?
Porcelain crowns can sometimes chip. Depending on the extent of the damage, the crown may need to be repaired or replaced.
Are dental crowns covered by insurance?
Coverage varies by dental insurance plan. Our team can review your benefits and discuss likely costs and available options. Patients can also review the membership plan for additional information.
Dental Crowns After Root Canal Treatment
A tooth that has undergone root canal treatment may need additional protection because the remaining tooth structure can be more vulnerable to fracture. A crown can cover and reinforce the tooth while restoring normal chewing function.
Related Dental Services
Depending on your oral health and treatment goals, you may also benefit from services such as Periodontal Maintenance or Cosmetic Dentistry.
Allred Family Dentistry also offers a range of dental services for patients in Hampton and the surrounding area.
Meet Our Hampton Dentists
Dr. Marc Allred and Dr. Ben Allred provide restorative dental care at Allred Family Dentistry in Hampton. They can explain crown material options, evaluate how the restoration will fit your bite, and answer questions about treatment and long-term maintenance.
Our Hampton dental team can also help you understand what to expect before and after treatment. Allred Family Dentistry is conveniently located in Hampton and serves patients from Hampton and Griffin.
Schedule a Dental Crown Consultation in Hampton
If a damaged or weakened tooth is making it difficult to eat comfortably or smile with confidence, a dental crown may help restore its strength and function.
Dr. Marc Allred, Dr. Ben Allred, and the team at Allred Family Dentistry can evaluate the tooth, explain your treatment options, and help you determine whether a crown is appropriate for your needs.
Contact Allred Family Dentistry to schedule a visit and learn more about dental crowns in Hampton, GA.
