Dental Crown Durham NC

Dental crowns are one of the most widely used dental restorations, serving both restorative and cosmetic purposes. Dr. Brent L. Blaylock places dental crowns in his Durham dentist office to address a variety of dental health concerns and cosmetic dentistry needs.

What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a custom restoration that covers the entire tooth like a cap. Dr. Blaylock will take impressions of your teeth, and those will be used to fabricate the crown that will fit perfectly. They are cemented into place to provide a durable fit. They can mask many teeth imperfections, enhancing the appearance of discolored or misshapen teeth.

They will also add strength to a tooth to prevent further damage. To blend in with the rest of your natural teeth, we will color-match your tooth cap. Crowns are stain-resistant and can last many years if cared for properly. Tooth crowns are a restorative dentistry treatment we provide to our patients in Durham, North Carolina.


About Dental Crowns

Dr. Blaylock may recommend the use of a dental crown for restorative or cosmetic reasons to address a wide range of dental concerns:

  • Replace worn or unsightly metal fillings
  • Improve the appearance of stained or discolored teeth
  • Correct misshapen or uneven teeth
  • Restore tooth cavities or cover teeth after root canal therapy
  • Repair cracked, worn or broken teeth
  • Restore dental implants

The Dental Crown Process

A dental crown is a multi-step process, beginning with a thorough examination of the affected tooth and dental impressions which will be used to create your custom crown. Dr. Blaylock will recommend the appropriate material for the crown, depending on the location and severity of tooth damage.

Initial visit: Dr. Blaylock will prepare the tooth by gently removing a small amount of the tooth structure to accommodate the crown. A temporary crown will be placed if necessary while your final restoration is being made.

Final restoration: Dr. Blaylock works closely with a local dental lab where your crown will be fabricated. Your new crown will be completed within 2-3 weeks and Dr. Blaylock will make any final adjustments for a secure fit when you return to his Durham dentist office for placement of your permanent restoration.

The dental crown procedure is relatively easy and pain-free, but Dr. Blaylock and his staff will work with you to ensure you are comfortable during treatment for the best result.

Dental Crown Options

Your dentist in Durham will discuss the types of dental crown material available and make a recommendation that is best suited to your particular dental or cosmetic concern and budget.

Gold crowns: a gold or metal crown is the most durable and best suited to larger teeth at the back of the mouth such as molars where the biting and chewing forces are the strongest. This type of crown will require the least amount of tooth structure to be removed.

Resin crowns: a resin dental crown can be made to blend with the natural teeth, providing an aesthetically pleasing result for teeth that are visible when smiling.

Porcelain crown: a porcelain crown is the highest quality ceramic dental crown providing a natural-looking result that is both durable and lasting. They are stain-resistant but require more tooth structure to be removed to accommodate it.

Dental Crown FAQs

Is getting a dental crown painful?

No. Getting a dental crown is no more painful than getting a dental filling. Your dentist will numb your mouth with local anesthesia so that you do not feel any discomfort. The process is quick and you can complete it in two visits.

Do I really need a dental crown after a root canal?

Yes, most patients need to cap their teeth with a crown after a root canal procedure. A dental crown will greatly protect your tooth from sensitivity, new cavities, and infections. Without it, you are more susceptible to many more tooth issues.

Does dental insurance cover dental crowns?

Yes, most dental plans cover the procedure because it’s a necessary part of restorative dental care. If you are unsure whether or not your specific plan covers tooth crowns, contact us today or call your insurance provider for more information.

How long do dental crowns last?

Dental crowns can last anywhere from five to fifteen years, depending on the type of crown and how well you take care of it. Tooth crowns made from porcelain or ceramic are usually the most durable, while gold crowns last the longest. If you have a dental crown that is starting to show signs of wear and tear, your dentist may need to replace it.

How long does it take to get a dental crown?

It typically takes two appointments to get a dental crown. The first appointment is for taking impressions of your teeth. The second appointment is for the dentist to place the dental crown.

Can dental crowns get cavities?

While crowns are not prone to producing dental decay, it is still possible for the teeth under them to develop cavities around restoration edges or form beneath a restored surface. Regular brushing and flossing can help protect your oral health by preventing such issues from arising.

Location

3206 Old Chapel Hill Road
Suite 300
Durham, NC 27707

Schedule Appointment

new patients 984-213-4695

current patients 919-493-8036

Hours

Monday: 8:30am – 5:00pm
Tuesday: 8:30am – 5:00pm
Wednesday: 8:30am – 5:00pm
Thursday: 8:30am – 5:00pm
Friday: Closed