Dental Crowns in Huntsville, AL

Many adults understand the struggle of dealing with broken, chipped, or even completely missing teeth. On average, American adults between the ages of 20-64 have fewer teeth than they should—about 25.5 remaining teeth instead of 28, excluding wisdom teeth. Missing or damaged teeth not only affect daily activities like eating and speaking but can also lead to more serious oral health issues if left unaddressed. Fortunately, dental crowns offer a reliable solution to repair and protect damaged teeth or replace missing ones.

What Are Dental Crowns?

Dental Crowns in Huntsville, AL Chase Family DentistryDental crowns are protective caps designed to restore a damaged tooth to its original function. They can also attach to a dental implant to replace one or more missing teeth. While the primary aim is to save the natural tooth, crowns provide an effective and seamless solution for missing or extensively damaged teeth.

How Dental Crowns Are Used

Dental crowns are a versatile restorative tool, using for a variety of purposes, such as:

  • Restoring a damaged tooth: Think of dental crowns as a protective armor for your teeth. They envelop a damaged tooth, safeguarding it from further harm. The process involves shaving off some enamel. Because enamel doesn’t grow back, this step is non-reversible. If you opt for a tooth-colored crown, Dr. Clayton will help you select a shade that matches your natural teeth for a flawless integration into your smile.
  • Supporting a dental bridge: We use dental bridges to replace missing teeth. Just as a highway bridge needs solid land to connect to on each side, a dental bridge requires two strong teeth on either side of the gap to support itself. We prepare these teeth by shaving them down before attaching the crowns, which hold the bridge in place. We then cement the crowns to effectively “bridge” the gap with the artificial tooth.
  • Protecting a tooth after a root canal: Root canal treatment can save an infected tooth. However, removing all the infected inner pulp the tooth vulnerable. We recommend a dental crown to protect the tooth from bite forces and maintain its structural integrity.
  • Replace a missing tooth: If your tooth has fallen out or is so badly damaged that it must be extracted, an artifical cornw mounted on a mini dental implant is an excellent solution. Dental implants act as artificial tooth roots, stimulating the jawbone to keep it healthy. They also provide a sturdy base to attach artificial teeth and prevent other teeth from shifting into the remaining space.

Using Mini Dental Implants to Replace Missing Teeth

When it comes to replacing a missing tooth, prompt replacement is key for long-term oral health. Traditional dental implants and mini implants function similarly, but mini implants provide additional benefits, including a much shorter treatment timeline and faster results.

Thanks to their smaller size, mini implants are much less invasive, eliminating the need for surgery or bone grafts in most cases. Their slim design makes them particularly suitable for those with less jawbone density. While traditional implants require multiple phases and months of healing time, we can place mini implants efficiently, often in a single visit. Additionally, the shorter placement and healing process not only saves time but also makes mini implants more affordable.

Learn More About Dental Crowns Today

At Chase Family Dental, we’re committed to providing high quality dental care in a warm and welcoming environment. Dr. Clayton and our team invite you to explore the transformative power of dental crowns. Book an appointment today and take the first step towards a healthier, more radiant smile.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can eat after getting a dental crown, but we will advise you to wait at least 30 minutes. We also recommend waiting until the local anesthesia has worn off, for more comfortable eating. In the initial days following crown placement, avoid sticky, hard, or chewy foods, including gum, as these can dislodge the crown. Additionally, try to chew on the opposite side of the mouth as your crown settles.

With proper care, most crowns last between 10-15 years, and some can even last up to 30 years. The longevity will depend on the materials used, the location of the crown in your mouth, and your oral health maintenance. Remember, while the crown itself is durable, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for the health of the surrounding teeth and gums.

The cost of a dental crown varies based on the number of teeth being restored, the materials used, and whether a dental implant is needed. At Chase Family Dental, we work with most insurance providers and offer financing options through dental financing companies. These companies provide flexible financing to help you manage out-of-pocket costs.