At Dresen Restorative Dentistry, located in the heart of Woodbury, Minnesota, we understand the importance of a healthy, beautiful smile.
Dental crowns, one of our core services, play a crucial role in restoring and enhancing teeth that have been damaged or decayed. Under the expert care of Dr. Tom Dresen, our practice combines old-school, personalized service with high-tech solutions to address your dental needs.
What Are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are custom-made restorations that completely cap or cover the entire visible portion of a tooth above the gum line. Think of them as protective “caps” that restore a tooth’s original shape, size, strength, and appearance. These versatile restorations are crafted from various high-quality materials including porcelain, ceramic, porcelain-fused-to-metal, or gold alloys. At Dresen Restorative Dentistry, we carefully select the most appropriate material based on the tooth’s location, your aesthetic preferences, and functional requirements. Modern dental crowns are designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, providing both durability and beauty that can last for decades with proper care.
When Are Crowns Recommended?
Dr. Tom Dresen may recommend a dental crown in several situations where a tooth needs comprehensive protection and restoration. Crowns are ideal for protecting weak teeth from fracturing, especially those compromised by large cavities or previous root canal treatment. They’re also essential for restoring teeth that are already cracked or broken, providing structural integrity that prevents further damage. When a tooth has a large filling that compromises its strength, a crown offers superior protection compared to additional fillings. Crowns also serve as anchors for dental bridges, covering severely discolored or misshapen teeth for cosmetic improvement, and capping dental implants to complete the restoration. Additionally, teeth that have undergone root canal therapy often require crowns to restore their strength and prevent future complications. During your consultation at our Woodbury office, we’ll thoroughly evaluate your specific situation to determine if a crown is the most appropriate treatment option.
The Dental Crown Process
The journey to receiving your custom dental crown at Dresen Restorative Dentistry typically involves two carefully planned appointments. During your initial visit, Dr. Dresen will conduct a comprehensive examination, which may include digital X-rays to assess the tooth’s root and surrounding bone structure. The tooth is then carefully prepared by removing any decay and reshaping it to accommodate the crown. This process involves reducing the tooth’s size to ensure the crown fits properly without affecting your bite. We’ll take detailed impressions or digital scans of your prepared tooth and surrounding teeth to ensure your crown fits perfectly. A temporary crown is then placed to protect your tooth while your permanent crown is being crafted in our dental laboratory. During your second appointment, typically scheduled 2-3 weeks later, the temporary crown is removed, and your new permanent crown is carefully fitted, adjusted for proper bite alignment, and permanently cemented into place. Our high-tech approach ensures precision at every step, resulting in a crown that feels natural and functions seamlessly with your existing teeth.
Benefits of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns offer numerous advantages that make them one of the most versatile and effective restorative treatments available. They provide exceptional durability, often lasting 10-15 years or longer with proper care, making them a cost-effective long-term solution. Crowns restore full chewing function, allowing you to enjoy all your favorite foods without worry. From an aesthetic standpoint, modern crowns are virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth, significantly improving your smile’s appearance. They also provide crucial protection against further decay and damage, essentially giving your tooth a new lease on life. Unlike large fillings that can weaken a tooth’s structure, crowns actually strengthen the remaining tooth structure. At Dresen Restorative Dentistry, our commitment to using cutting-edge technology ensures your crowns are crafted with exceptional precision, resulting in superior fit, comfort, and longevity. The personalized approach we take means each crown is tailored specifically to your unique needs and aesthetic goals.
Pros and Cons of Dental Crowns
While dental crowns are an excellent solution for many dental challenges, it’s important to understand both their advantages and potential drawbacks. The pros include exceptional durability and longevity, complete protection of the underlying tooth structure, restoration of full chewing function, and significant aesthetic improvement. Crowns are also biocompatible and can be matched precisely to your natural tooth color. However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. The process requires removal of some healthy tooth structure to accommodate the crown, and some patients may experience temporary sensitivity following the procedure. There’s also the possibility that crowns may need replacement after many years of service, and the initial investment is higher than simpler restorations like fillings. Additionally, while rare, complications such as crown loosening or the need for root canal therapy can occur. Dr. Tom Dresen will thoroughly discuss all aspects of dental crowns with you, ensuring you have complete information to make the best decision for your oral health and lifestyle needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Crowns
How long do dental crowns last?
Dental crowns typically last between 10 to 15 years, though many patients enjoy their crowns for 20 years or more with excellent care. The longevity depends on factors such as the material used, your oral hygiene habits, and lifestyle factors like teeth grinding. Regular check-ups at Dresen Restorative Dentistry help us monitor your crown’s condition and maximize its lifespan through preventive care.
Are dental crowns painful?
The crown procedure itself is not painful thanks to local anesthesia that ensures your comfort throughout the treatment. Some patients experience mild sensitivity or discomfort for a few days after the procedure, which is completely normal and typically resolves quickly. Dr. Dresen will provide detailed post-treatment instructions to minimize any discomfort and ensure proper healing.
How do I care for my dental crown?
Caring for a dental crown is similar to caring for your natural teeth. Maintain excellent oral hygiene with regular brushing using fluoride toothpaste, daily flossing, and routine dental cleanings. Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice or using your teeth as tools. If you grind your teeth at night, a custom nightguard can protect both your crown and natural teeth from excessive wear.
Can a dental crown be replaced?
Yes, dental crowns can be replaced when they become worn, damaged, or if you’re simply looking to update their appearance. At Dresen Restorative Dentistry, we regularly assess the condition of existing crowns during routine visits and can recommend replacement when necessary. The replacement process is similar to receiving your initial crown.
Will my dental crown look natural?
Absolutely! Modern dental crowns are crafted to match the color, shape, and translucency of your natural teeth. Dr. Dresen takes great care in selecting the appropriate shade and designing your crown to blend seamlessly with your smile. Our high-tech approach ensures exceptional aesthetic results that even dental professionals would have difficulty distinguishing from natural teeth.
How much do dental crowns cost?
The cost of dental crowns varies depending on factors such as the material selected, the complexity of your case, and your insurance coverage. We provide transparent pricing and offer various payment options to make treatment accessible. During your consultation, we’ll provide a detailed treatment estimate and discuss financing options that fit your budget.
Choosing Dresen Restorative Dentistry for your dental crowns in Woodbury, Minnesota, means selecting a practice that prioritizes personalized care, advanced technology, and patient comfort above all else. With Dr. Tom Dresen‘s expertise and our unwavering commitment to excellence, we’re dedicated to restoring not just your teeth, but your confidence and quality of life. Whether you’re from Woodbury, Oakdale, Cottage Grove, or anywhere in the greater Twin Cities area, we’re here to provide the exceptional care you deserve. Call us today at 651-735-1585 to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a healthier, more beautiful smile.