Dental crowns can be one of the best restorative options if you have tooth damage and need to protect your natural tooth. Before treatment, you may have questions about dental crowns in our Williamsburg, VA, dental office. We’re here to answer your questions and clear up misconceptions about tooth crowns so you can feel more prepared for treatment.
FAQs: Dental Crowns in Williamsburg, VA
Learn more about dental crown treatment and care with answers to these commonly asked questions:
Can you eat with a dental crown?
Yes, while you will have to eat soft foods after you receive your new crown, you can incorporate regular foods and eat normally over time. Dental crowns allow you to eat the foods you love and can create a more even bite if you have worn teeth.
Can you whiten a dental crown?
No, you cannot whiten a dental crown because of the materials. Metal or porcelain materials cannot be whitened. Tooth crowns are also meant to change the color of teeth as needed. Damaged teeth can become discolored, which is why we color-match crowns.
Is it painful to prepare a tooth for a dental crown?
No, we will numb the tooth with a local anesthetic for preparation. You will not feel any pain during the tooth preparation process.
What are dental crowns made of?
Crowns can be made of multiple materials. Traditional crowns are made of amalgam metal, a mix of silver, tin, copper, and mercury. Modern crowns are made of porcelain materials because they are color-matched to natural teeth.
Are dental caps and dental crowns the same?
Yes, dental crowns and caps are the same. Dentists often refer to crowns as caps because they fully cover single teeth. Tooth crowns act as a protective cap to cover and protect teeth, creating a natural look.
How long do dental crowns last?
With the right care, dental crowns can last 15 or more years. Cleaning your crowns by gently brushing and flossing them and visiting the dentist regularly will keep your dental crowns bright and stable.
How do you clean dental crowns?
You can clean your dental crowns like your natural teeth with a toothbrush and toothpaste. Using toothpaste with non-abrasive materials can prevent damage to the crown’s surface. It’s also important to keep flossing between natural teeth and tooth crowns, as harmful bacteria can still build on them.
Do you have any questions about dental crown treatment? Call the Williamsburg Center for Dental Health for crown treatment today at 757-216-9873. Schedule a dental appointment with Dr. Stacey Hall online.