Crowns and Bridges in Buffalo, NY

Experienced Buffalo Dentists Providing Affordable Dental Crowns and Bridges in WNY

A dental crown may be recommended when an individual tooth has diminished in size so significantly that no filling can completely restore the tooth to its original shape.

In dentistry, “crown” often refers to the visible part of a tooth above the gum line. Dental crowns, however, are distinct from the crowns of teeth, relating instead to a cap-shaped device that is placed over a damaged tooth to prevent further deterioration. Though dental fillings can often repair the portions of teeth that have been weakened and begun to decay, fillings are not ideal in every situation. A dental crown may be recommended when an individual tooth has diminished in size so significantly that no filling can completely restore the tooth to its original shape. Dental crowns can also serve as an additional means of fixing a cavity, even covering a tooth with a filling in order to better insulate the weakened area and provide cosmetic appeal. When whitening cannot effectively alter the color of a tooth, a dental crown can be placed over the tooth so that it blends in with the adjacent teeth that have responded to bleaching. Dental crowns are inherently adaptable and offer a more permanent fix to chronic issues related to tooth degradation.

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Crowns and Bridges in Buffalo, NY Dental crowns are available in a range of materials, including metal alloys, ceramic substances, and amalgams of the two. Crowns made from metallic sources, such as platinum, gold, and alloys of less precious metals, are the most durable of all the available options, but due to their stark colors, these dental crowns are more commonly reserved for installation on the molars and premolars, where they are less visible. Stainless steel dental crowns are similarly strong yet noticeable, but because they are more cost-effective, they are often relegated for use in pediatric dentistry, particularly to preserve deciduous (baby) teeth that have degraded but not yet fallen out of the mouth. Though crowns are long-lasting devices, they are ideal for preserving deciduous teeth, defending them from infection before the permanent teeth have finished developing and erupted (grown in). Dental crowns made from porcelain most easily blend in with other teeth due to the ceramic’s color versatility, and these crowns may be more appropriate for incisors and canines, the teeth at the front of the mouth. Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are a happy medium, combining much of the aesthetic appeal of ceramic crowns with the durability of those made from metal, but the porcelain finish can be prone to chipping, and hints of the underlying metal are still visible even after installation.

Another primary use of dental crowns is their role as anchors for dental bridges. Edentulism, the loss of teeth, is a reality for many people, and every lost tooth creates extra strain on those still intact during biting and chewing, threatening the integrity of these teeth. Dental bridges are an effective way not to restore lost teeth but rather to make up for their loss. Once a tooth falls out or is avulsed (forced out of its socket), the gums eventually fill in the space, creating a tender but useful platform on which a bridge can be placed. A dental bridge comprises a false tooth designed specifically to match the appearance of an individual’s teeth, and affixed to the false tooth are one or two wings or crowns that can glued into place over or against the sides of the neighboring teeth, also known as abutment teeth, that will serve as the bridge’s anchors. For a traditional bridge to be installed, the enamel of the abutment teeth must first be filed down. Then, an impression is taken of that region of the mouth, and a bridge is designed. During the follow-up appointment, the crowns of the dental bridge are cemented into place over the abutment teeth, effectively closing the gap where the original tooth once was.

FAQ About Dental Crowns

Is It Painful to Have A Crown Put on Your Tooth?

Your dentist makes the situation as comfortable as possible by numbing your tooth. You are given a topical anesthetic on your gums before the actual anesthetic is given. There is a chance you will feel a small pinch. When you receive a dental crown there are many steps during the procedure and can cause discomfort and pain at any time and may have you feeling sore afterwards.

How much do dental crowns cost?

Crowns vary between $800 to $1700 or more for each crown. Generally, insurance covers a portion of the cost. It is important to talk with your insurance company to see what they are expecting you to pay out of pocket. Some dentists may offer payment plans.

How long is a crown supposed to last?

The lifespan of a dental crown on average is between 5 and 15 years. The amount of damage the crown is put through over the years really determines how long it may last. Along with how you are with your oral hygiene habits and certain foods you may eat. For example, if you are someone who likes to eat hard or sticky candy the chance of your dental crown making it to the 15-year mark is not likely.

Can a permanent crown be removed?

It may be possible for a crown to be removed if the tooth was not in real retentive shape and if cement was used. It is important to remember when a dentist uses cement for a crown the intention is that it is permanent. Typically, it is difficult for a crown to be removed and if it is there is a high chance the tooth and/or crown will be damaged during this process.

Are crowns permanent?

There are some crowns that are temporary while others are permanent. One of the main differences is temporary crowns are made in your dentist’s office while the crowns that are permanent are made in a lab. Crowns that are temporary are made out of stainless steel or acrylic-based material they can be used as a placeholder until the permanent crown is finished by the lab.

How long does it take to get a crown put on your tooth?

When you are getting a crown placed it may take longer than you expected. The average time is about three weeks. You will need to see the dentist for multiple appointments if you are wanting your crown to be properly placed. It is also good to keep in mind that the crown has to be created by a laboratory or a dental technician.

What can you not eat with a crown?

There are certain foods you should avoid when you have a temporary crown. A crown can be pulled out by sticky or chewy foods. Such foods are gum, taffy and caramel. The crown can be dislodged or can break off if you eat a lot of hard foods such as ice, hard candy and granola. Extremely hot or cold foods should also be avoided to the best of your ability. Hard bread and steaks along with other tough foods are also a no go.

Can a permanent crown move?

It is possible for a permanent crown to move. Permanent crowns are not supposed to move. If your crown does move that could mean that the cement holding the crown in place is leaking, or your tooth could be loose. If you experience this, you should go back to your dentist immediately.

Can A Crown Be Too Big?

It is possible for a crown to not fit your tooth properly. For a crown to fit properly is very crucial to the longevity of the crown. Comfort is very important when you are having a crown placed. It is hard for a patient to know the right fit for a crown and it is usually up to the dentist. If your bite doesn’t feel right along with having gaps or an obvious one your crown keeps falling off or is loose, you probably need to get a different sized crown.

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Contact Teach Dental Group today to learn about our restorative dentistry services. Our experienced Buffalo dentists have been providing dental crowns and bridges in Buffalo and throughout Western New York for over 40 years. We welcome the opportunity to put a smile on your face.