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2329 Devine St, Suite 2 Columbia, SC 29205

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Dental Crown Columbia, SC

Dental Crown in Columbia, SC

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Why should I choose dental crowns?

Dental crowns are a versatile solution for both cosmetic and restorative dental needs. They’re the go-to treatment for those with damaged, broken, or severely decayed teeth. After clearing away the damage and shaping the tooth into a strong base, a crown is placed over it. These custom-made, tooth-shaped caps protect your natural tooth down to the gum line, preserving your smile’s look, feel, and functionality. Crowns are also frequently used after root canal therapy or to complete a dental implant procedure.

A dental crown is a strong “cap” that covers a tooth to protect it and help it work normally again. Crowns can also improve how a tooth looks, especially if it is cracked, worn down, or has a large filling. At Carolina Dentistry in Columbia, SC, Dr. Natalia Antley uses dental crowns to help patients chew comfortably, reduce tooth pain, and feel confident when they smile. Crowns are made to fit your tooth and bite, so they look natural and feel secure.

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a custom-made cover that goes over the visible part of a tooth, right down to the gum line. It helps hold the tooth together and protects it from more damage. A crown can be placed on a natural tooth, on top of a tooth that had a root canal, or on a dental implant.

Crowns are designed to match your bite and blend in with your other teeth. Once a crown is in place, it can make a weak tooth stronger and help you bite and chew more comfortably. It can also reshape a tooth and improve the color or overall appearance if needed.
Dental Crown Columbia SC

Intraoral Scanner = Mess-Free Treatment

You can say goodbye to goopy impressions thanks to our 3D Intraoral Scanner. This tool allows us to capture images and create models of your teeth. It’s a fully digital process — no putty necessary.

When a Crown May Be Needed

A dental crown may be needed when a tooth is too damaged to be fixed with a simple filling. This can happen if a tooth is cracked, has a large cavity, or has old fillings that have broken down over time. A crown is also often recommended after a root canal because the tooth can become more brittle and easier to break.

Some patients need crowns when teeth are very worn down from grinding or clenching, or when a tooth is chipped in a way that affects the bite. Crowns may also be used to cover a tooth that is misshaped, heavily stained, or uneven, helping create a more balanced and natural-looking smile.

Benefits of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns do more than just cover a tooth. They help protect the tooth from further cracking or decay, especially when the tooth is already weak. Crowns can restore strength so you can chew without pain or worry. They can also improve your bite, which may reduce stress on nearby teeth and jaws.
Another major benefit is appearance. A well-made crown can look very natural, helping a tooth blend in with the rest of your smile. With good brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits, crowns can last for many years.

Types Of Dental Crowns

There are several types of dental crowns, and the best choice depends on where the tooth is located, how much force it handles, and your smile goals.

Porcelain or ceramic crowns are popular because they look very natural and can closely match the color of nearby teeth. They are often used for front teeth or visible areas of the smile.

Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns combine a strong metal base with a tooth-colored outer layer. They can be a good option when you need both strength and a natural look, especially for back teeth.

Metal crowns (such as gold or other alloys) are very durable and resist chipping. They are commonly used on molars where chewing force is strongest, though they are more noticeable.

Zirconia crowns are a strong, modern option that can also look very natural. Many patients like zirconia because it offers both durability and good appearance.

What to Expect During the Procedure

The dental crown process usually takes more than one visit, though timing can vary based on your needs.
First, you’ll have a consultation with Dr. Natalia Antley at Carolina Dentistry. We will examine your tooth, talk about your symptoms, and may take X-rays to check the root and bone. If there is decay or infection, that will be treated before the crown is made. The goal is to make sure the tooth is healthy enough to support a crown.
Next, the tooth is prepared. This means the tooth is shaped so the crown can fit over it properly. If a large portion of the tooth is missing, we may need to build it up first so the crown has a solid base. We then take impressions (molds or digital scans) of your tooth and bite. These details help the dental lab create a crown that fits comfortably and looks natural.
While your final crown is being made, you will usually wear a temporary crown. This protects the tooth and helps you chew more comfortably between visits. You’ll receive simple care instructions, such as avoiding very sticky foods and being gentle around the temporary crown when flossing.
At the placement visit, we remove the temporary crown and check the fit and color of the final crown. Dr. Antley will make sure your bite feels right and that the crown sits properly along the gumline. Once everything looks and feels correct, the crown is bonded into place. After placement, your tooth should feel stronger, and you should be able to bite and chew with more confidence.
FAQ

Dental Crown

What Issue Can A Dental Crown Treat?
Dental crowns are a common solution for treating teeth that have been impacted by decay or damage. Patients with severe cavities and those who have experienced dental trauma, resulting in cracked, chipped, or broken teeth may also benefit from a dental crown. Additionally, individuals who have undergone root canal therapy often require a crown to complete the procedure as it serves to protect the tooth from future problems by capping it down to the gumline.Crowns can also be used to restore the shape, appearance, and functionality of teeth. They can be used in cosmetic cases as an alternative to veneers or dental bonding.
Dental crowns that are recommended as a restorative treatment are often covered by insurance policies. The amount of coverage, and how much you will have to pay, will vary based on your plan. Dental crowns for cosmetic purposes may not be covered by insurance. Check with your dental insurance provider to find out if dental crowns are covered under your policy.
Caring for your dental crown is simple and similar to caring for your natural teeth. Implementing a routine of brushing for at least two minutes twice daily and flossing at least once, especially before bed, is crucial for maintaining the health of your crown. Regular dental visits every six months and avoiding consumption of excessively hard or sticky foods can also aid in preserving the longevity of your dental crown.
If you are experiencing pain, discomfort, or have visible damage or discoloration in your teeth due to decay or trauma, you may be a candidate for a dental crown. It’s always necessary to consult with your dentist to see if a crown can help address your oral health concerns.
When crafted and placed correctly, dental crowns have the potential to last up to 15 years. Maintaining good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing once daily, along with regular dental check-ups and cleanings every 6 months, can contribute to the longevity of your crown.

Request Your Appointment

If you have a cracked tooth, pain when chewing, or a tooth with a large filling that keeps breaking, a dental crown may be the right solution. Contact Carolina Dentistry in Columbia, SC at (803) 500-4146​ to schedule your visit with Dr. Natalia Antley. Request your appointment today and let us help you protect your tooth and restore a healthy, comfortable smile.

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