Parkway Dental
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(617) 958-2799
Location
1208B VFW Parkway, Suite 307 West Roxbury, MA 02132
Dental Crowns and Bridges in West Roxbury, MA
One of the most common dental treatments involves addressing tooth decay. When dealing with a cavity, the initial approach is typically a filling. However, a more comprehensive solution may be necessary in cases of more extensive decay. This is where dental crown treatment, also known as a dental cap, comes into play.
Dental crown treatment is available at Parkway Dental in West Roxbury, MA, and the surrounding area. Crowns are a valuable solution for restoring teeth that have sustained significant damage. They involve the placement of a custom-sized cap over the affected tooth, effectively strengthening and restoring its function and appearance.
Dental crowns may be the ideal solution for individuals dealing with broken, damaged, or decaying teeth. If you’re experiencing dental issues or require restorative care, please get in touch with us at (617) 325 4100. Our team is ready to thoroughly assess and offer the appropriate dental solutions to address your needs effectively.
Dental Crowns Explained
The American College of Prosthodontists highlights that one of the most prevalent dental restorations is the single dental crown. Dental crowns find utility in a diverse range of treatment scenarios. They serve to safeguard vulnerable teeth from progressive decay, cap damaged teeth, and conceal deep fillings. Additionally, crowns are frequently employed to finalize dental implant procedures or cover teeth that have undergone root canal treatment. Through close collaboration with their dental laboratory and the patient, dentists can create custom-fitted dental crowns that effectively restore a tooth’s shape and size, often achieving results that are nearly indistinguishable from natural teeth.
How Dental Bridges Work with Dental Crowns
Patients frequently opt for dental crowns to play a pivotal role in completing a dental bridge. As per WebMD, dental bridges serve the vital function of closing the gap resulting from a missing tooth. In the case of a single missing tooth, dentists often employ a dental appliance that anchors to the two neighbouring teeth. To secure the dental bridge in place, the two adjacent teeth, known as abutment teeth, must be reshaped. This process entails the removal of a significant portion of enamel from the abutment teeth.
Subsequently, dental crowns are placed atop these reshaped abutment teeth. These crowns serve as anchor points for the new artificial tooth, which forms the central component of the bridge. The combination of the dental crowns on the abutment teeth and the artificial tooth effectively restores the appearance and functionality of the missing tooth, completing the dental bridge.
Why Patients Get a Dental Crown
Patients often opt for dental crowns as a preventive measure to mitigate the risk of further damage or decay to an existing tooth. These crowns can preserve the tooth’s integrity while enhancing the smile’s overall aesthetics. Furthermore, dental crowns are pivotal in preventing tooth loss, a potential precursor to additional oral health complications and more extensive and costly dental interventions.
Maintaining a stable bite and preventing teeth from shifting are additional benefits of dental crowns. These crowns help ensure that the bite remains normal and that the alignment of the teeth is maintained, contributing to overall oral health and function.
Receiving a Dental Crown Step-by-Step
Getting a dental crown typically involves several appointments and is often integrated into a broader dental treatment plan, such as a root canal. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how the dental crown procedure unfolds:
- Preliminary Evaluation: The dentist conducts an initial assessment before initiating the crown creation process. Any underlying issues, such as infections or cavities, are addressed and treated as necessary. If an existing crown needs replacement, the remnants are removed.
- Tooth Preparation: The dentist prepares the tooth that will receive the crown. This involves carefully shaving down the tooth to create adequate space for the crown to fit comfortably. Additionally, a series of impressions of the prepared tooth are taken and sent to a dental laboratory to fabricate the custom crown. Sometimes, patients may receive a temporary crown at this stage to protect the prepared tooth.
- Crown Delivery: Once the custom crown is ready, the patient returns to the dental office for placement. Initially, the dentist tries on the crown to ensure it fits correctly and feels comfortable in the mouth. If the crown meets these criteria, the dentist uses dental cement to securely bond it permanently.
This multi-step process ensures that the dental crown is precisely tailored to the patient’s needs and seamlessly integrates with their natural teeth, providing both functional and aesthetic benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does getting a dental crown hurt?
During the tooth preparation phase for the dental crown, the dentist may administer local anesthesia to numb the area, ensuring the patient’s comfort throughout the procedure. This numbing helps minimize discomfort or pain during tooth shaping and crown placement.
Following the crown fitting, it’s not uncommon for patients to experience some mild soreness or sensitivity in the area where the crown is situated. This discomfort typically subsides within a few days as the patient adjusts to the new crown.
However, if the pain continues well beyond this initial period, it may signal an issue with the crown’s fit. In such cases, it’s advisable for the patient to promptly return to the dental office for an assessment and potential adjustment to ensure that the crown aligns properly and does not cause ongoing discomfort or complications.
Does a dental crown look natural?
Modern dental crowns are meticulously designed to blend seamlessly with the patient’s natural teeth, both in appearance and functionality. Dentists prioritize helping patients select a shade for the new dental crown that closely matches the color and characteristics of their surrounding natural teeth.
The result of this careful selection process is that contemporary dental crowns are virtually indistinguishable from permanent teeth. They exhibit a natural appearance, allowing patients to smile, speak, and eat confidently while enjoying the cosmetic and functional benefits of a well-fitted crown that harmonizes with their existing dentition.
Does a dental crown need replacement?
The longevity of dental crowns can vary based on several factors, including the material used for the crown and the patient’s oral health and habits. On average, dental crowns are expected to last anywhere from five to 15 years before they may require replacement.
However, it’s essential to note that this is a general estimate, and individual circumstances can influence the actual lifespan of a dental crown. Regular dental check-ups play a crucial role in monitoring the condition of the crown and identifying any signs of wear, damage, or deterioration. Dentists can then recommend timely replacement when necessary to maintain the tooth’s integrity and ensure the crown’s continued effectiveness.
Are crowns a cost-effective choice?
Patients considering dental crowns should proactively engage with their insurance provider to inquire about coverage options. In many cases, crowns integral to a comprehensive treatment plan, such as tooth decay repair or restorative work, may have a higher likelihood of insurance coverage.
It’s important to recognize that the choice of material for the dental crown can significantly impact the cost, as different materials may have varying price points. Therefore, individuals should thoroughly discuss the available crown material options with their dentist and assess how these choices may align with their budget and insurance coverage.
By having open and informed discussions with their dental provider and insurance company, patients can gain clarity regarding the financial aspects of dental crown procedures and make well-informed decisions about their dental care.
How long will it take to get a crown?
The duration of the dental crown treatment can vary significantly based on several factors. Crowns integrated into a root canal or another extensive dental procedure may require additional time due to the comprehensive nature of the treatment plan and the need for other preparatory steps.
To obtain a more precise estimate of how long the dental crown process will take in a specific case, patients are encouraged to engage in open and proactive communication with their dentist. By discussing the treatment plan and timeline with the dentist, individuals can better understand what to expect and how long they should anticipate the entire process to last. This personalized communication ensures that patients are well-informed and prepared for dental crown treatment.
What are the alternatives to getting a crown?
Patients should be aware that dental crowns are not always the only option for tooth restoration, and the treatment choice may vary based on the specific case and individual circumstances. Depending on the extent of the damage or decay, alternative treatments may be considered, including:
- Fillings: In cases of minor damage or cavities, dental fillings may suffice to restore the tooth’s functionality and appearance.
- Inlays and Onlays: These are intermediate restorative options that can be utilized for moderate tooth damage, offering a more conservative approach compared to a full crown.
- Extraction: In situations where the tooth is severely compromised or poses a significant risk to oral health, extraction (removal) of the tooth may be a viable alternative to a dental crown.
The most suitable treatment option should be determined in consultation with the dentist, who will assess the tooth’s condition and discuss the available choices with the patient. This personalized approach ensures that the treatment aligns with the patient’s needs and delivers the best possible outcome.
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Testimonials
What Patients Say About Us
Patient
Dr. Baig is very knowledgeable and communicated everything clearly from etiology to treatment options and alternatives. I was very comfortable without pain throughout my encounter. I would recommend to others without hesitation.
Patient
Everyone at Parkway dental have been very friendly and informative during both of my visits. I got a tooth pulled and it was fast and painl
Patient
Excellent service and great staff. Dr. Baig and his assistant Sarah were amazing. If painless dentistry is something you are looking for, Parkway Dental is the place.