CEREC Same-Day Crowns - Spring Hill, TN

The Porcelain Crown Process

Consultation and Evaluation

During this appointment, your dentist in Spring Hill, TN will evaluate your teeth and discuss your treatment goals and options. They may take X-rays or impressions of your teeth to help plan the treatment.

Tooth Preparation

Once you and your dentist have decided on porcelain crowns as the best solution, the next step is to prepare the affected teeth. The dentist will also consider the surrounding teeth to ensure a proper fit and natural look. Dr. Robinette will remove any decay or damage from the tooth and shape it to fit the crown. This may involve removing some of the enamel from the tooth’s surface.

Impressions

After your tooth has been prepared, we’ll take an impression or mold of the tooth. This impression will be used to create a custom-fit porcelain crown that matches the size and shape of your natural tooth.

Temporary Crown

While your custom crown is being crafted in a dental lab, your Spring Hill, TN dentist will fit you with a temporary crown. This will protect the prepared tooth and maintain your bite and tooth alignment while the permanent crown is being made.

Crown Placement

Once your custom porcelain crown is ready, you’ll return to the dentist’s office for the final placement. A dental implant can serve as a foundation for the crown, replicating the function and appearance of a natural tooth. Dr. Robinette will remove the temporary crown and replace it with the permanent porcelain crown, making any necessary adjustments to ensure a comfortable fit and natural appearance.

Follow-Up

After your porcelain crown has been placed, schedule a follow-up appointment to ensure the crown is functioning properly and to check for any sensitivity or discomfort. After the porcelain crown procedure, you can expect to eat and drink normally, use sensitive toothpaste if needed, and get the crown adjusted if there are any issues. With proper care and maintenance, your porcelain crown can last for many years to come.

Porcelain Crown Alternatives

The right choice of dental treatment will depend on your specific dental needs, aesthetic preferences, and budget. There are different types of dental crowns available, including all-porcelain crowns, porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns, gold crowns, base metal alloy crowns, and zirconia crowns. Here are some potential alternatives:

• Composite Resin: Composite is a tooth-colored filling material that can be used in certain situations instead of a crown. Composite fillings can restore a tooth that has a significant amount of structure missing, but they may not offer the same strength and durability as crowns. They’re often more affordable than a dental crown.
• Gold Crowns: Gold is one of the oldest materials used for dental crowns. It’s durable, non-abrasive, and requires less tooth reduction than porcelain or porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns. Some people prefer the appearance of gold, especially for back teeth, while others don’t like the metallic look.
• Zirconia Crowns: Zirconia is a type of ceramic known for its durability and strength. These crowns are tooth-colored and can be a good option for people who want both aesthetics and strength. They’re also metal-free, which can be advantageous for patients with metal allergies or sensitivities.
• CEREC® (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) Crowns: This system allows dentists to design, fabricate, and place a crown in just one visit. The crown is made from a block of ceramic material and is designed using computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology. These are also known as same-day crowns.
• Onlays or Inlays: Rather than cover the entire tooth, onlays or inlays only replace a portion of the tooth. They can be made of porcelain, gold, or composite resin and might be suitable for teeth that don’t require full coverage but have too much damage for a simple filling.
• Dental Veneers: For front teeth that are mostly intact but have aesthetic issues, veneers can be a more conservative alternative. They’re thin porcelain shells that are bonded to the front surface of the teeth to improve their appearance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do porcelain crowns last?

With proper care and maintenance, porcelain crowns can last 10 to 20 years. However, their lifespan can vary depending on factors such as oral hygiene practices, diet, and the amount of wear and tear they experience. Porcelain crowns are known for their durability and longevity. 

Are porcelain crowns expensive?

Porcelain crowns can be more expensive than other types of crowns and dental restorations due to the high-quality materials and custom crafting involved. The cost can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of the case, the number of crowns needed, and the geographic location of the dental practice.

Does getting a porcelain crown hurt?

Not at all. Your dentist will use a local anesthetic to numb the area and make the procedure as comfortable as possible. After the procedure, you may experience some sensitivity or soreness, but this should subside within a few days.

Do porcelain crowns turn yellow?

Porcelain is highly resistant to staining and discoloration, and porcelain crowns are designed to remain bright and white over time. To prevent discoloration, maintain good oral hygiene practices and avoid consuming these substances in excess. Additionally, regular dental cleanings can help remove any surface stains and keep your porcelain crowns looking their best.

Discover if Porcelain Crowns Are Right For You

If you’re considering porcelain crowns to restore your smile, contact Dentistry By Design in Spring Hill, TN at 931-391-3089 to discuss your options. With proper care and maintenance, porcelain crowns can provide a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing solution to a range of dental issues.

We look forward to meeting new and returning patients from Spring Hill and its surrounding areas, such as Thompson’s Station, Jameson, and Bethesda, TN.