Crowns Vs. Veneers: What’s the Difference?

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If you have a damaged tooth, you may be a good candidate for dental crowns or dental veneers, depending on what’s wrong. These two dental tools can serve similar functions but are not the same.

Understanding the difference can help you decide which one is right for you. If you’re in need of either, your dentist in Stuart, FL can help. At Stuart Dentist we offer a range of services, including dental crowns and dental veneers. We can help you decide which one is right for you.

What Are Dental Crowns?

A dental crown is a cap that’s placed over your tooth to protect and reinforce the enamel. Most of the time, dental crowns look like natural teeth. However, some dental crowns are made from gold and other metals. Crowns that are made from metal do not look very natural, and are usually placed in the back of the mouth.

If you have a root canal, your dentist will install a crown on the tooth to protect the enamel from further damage. You may also need a crown if your tooth is badly cracked or broken.

What Are Veneers?

A veneer is a cover placed on the front of the tooth to hide what the tooth looks like, and make the teeth look uniform. Veneers do not provide structural support to the tooth, but instead add aesthetic beauty and can help you achieve your goals for your smile.

If your tooth is suffering from cosmetic damage, veneers are right for you. If your tooth has structural damage and cosmetic damage, you may need a crown instead.

Have questions? Need dental veneers or dental crowns in Stuart, FL? Call us today to make an appointment and get started with your next dental procedure.

Life Expectancy of Crowns, Bridges, and Dental Implants

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Smile restoration improves the function of your teeth and gums, making it much easier to speak clearly and enjoy your favorite foods with ease. But if you opt for restorative procedures such as dental crowns, bridges, or implants, what should you expect of them in terms of longevity? Your dentist in Stuart, FL, has the answer.

Do Dental Crowns Last Forever?

On average, dental crowns tend to last for around 10 years before they need to be replaced. However, if you take good care of your crown, you may be able to stretch that into 15 years. Much depends on the material from which the crown is made and how much of your natural tooth was still in place when the crown went on.

How Long Does a Dental Bridge Last?

The same can be said of a dental bridge, which also has an average lifespan of around 10 years. Bridges can be fixed or removable, and they require the same care that dental crowns require. If you’re careful, keep them clean, and refrain from eating things that can damage them, you may get a few additional years out of your dental bridge before needing a replacement.

Do Dental Implants Last a Lifetime?

Dental implants include an implanted post, an abutment, and a crown.The post actually bonds to your jawbone like a normal tooth root, meaning it can easily last a lifetime. Eventually the abutment or the crown will likely need attention, however. The typical lifespan of a full dental implant can be up to 20 years.

If you need help with dental appliances in Stuart, CA, call Stuart Dentist today. Our friendly and experienced clinicians are happy to sit down with you to discuss what’s going on with your dental health.

What to Expect When You Need a Dental Crown

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People need dental crowns in Stuart, FL for a variety of reasons, such as preserving a tooth that would otherwise require extraction. You care for teeth with crowns just as you would any other tooth.

Other Reasons You May Need a Dental Crown

People most often require a dental crown for the reasons listed below.

  • Cover a dental implant to improve your appearance and provide additional support.
  • Cover a severely discolored or misshapen tooth.
  • Hold a dental bridge in place.
  • Protect a tooth from further infection after a root canal.
  • Protect a tooth weakened by severe decay.
  • Restore a severely worn, chipped, or cracked tooth to full functioning.

Steps Involved in Receiving a Dental Crown

The first thing you and your dentist will discuss is which of the following types of dental crowns will work best for you:

  • All-ceramic
  • All-porcelain
  • All-resin
  • Metal
  • Porcelain-fused-to-metal
  • Pressed ceramic

Each type has advantages and potential disadvantages, and your dentist will recommend a specific type based on your health history and oral health needs. Next, Dr. Panchal or Dr. Cogan will take X-rays of the tooth requiring a crown and the bone surrounding it. Patients with certain issues, such as tooth decay or an injury to the pulp of the tooth, may need to undergo a root canal before receiving a dental crown.

After finishing the X-rays, your dentist takes an impression of the tooth with dental putty and sends it to our laboratory. We fit you with a temporary crown in the meantime. When the laboratory finishes your custom-made crown, you return to Stuart Dental to have it placed. Dr. Panchal or Dr. Cogan will need to remove some enamel from the treated tooth to ensure that the crown fits over it snugly.

Ready to learn more about dental crowns in Stuart, FL? Please contact our dental practice to request a consultation.