A cracked, damaged, or severely decayed tooth can affect your confidence and quality of life. At Eddleman Dental in Monroe, LA, we specialize in restoring smiles with dental crowns, a proven solution that has helped thousands of patients regain their healthy, natural-looking teeth.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover everything about dental crowns, including how the procedure works, what to expect during recovery, and proven care strategies to maximize your crown’s lifespan. We’ll also address the most common questions our Monroe patients ask before getting their crowns.
Understanding Dental Crowns and When You Need One
Dental crowns serve multiple purposes in restorative dentistry. Your Monroe dentist might recommend a crown if you have a tooth that’s severely decayed, cracked, or weakened. Crowns also protect teeth after root canal treatment, support dental bridges, cover dental implants, or improve the appearance of misshapen or discolored teeth.
The process typically requires two visits to our office. During your first appointment, we prepare the tooth by removing any decay and reshaping it to fit the crown. We take detailed impressions of your teeth and place a temporary crown to protect the prepared tooth. A dental laboratory creates your permanent crown from these impressions, which takes about two weeks. At your second visit, we remove the temporary crown and cement the permanent one in place.
According to the American Dental Association, dental crowns can last 5 to 15 years or longer with proper care, making them an excellent investment in your oral health.
8 Essential Tips for Long-Lasting Dental Crowns
Getting a crown is just the first step. How you care for it determines how long it lasts and how well it functions. These proven strategies will help you get the most from your investment:
1. Follow All Post-Procedure Instructions
After getting your crown, your dentist will give you specific care instructions. Follow them carefully, especially during the first few days. If you have a temporary crown, be extra gentle with that tooth. Avoid sticky or hard foods that could dislodge it. Once your permanent crown is placed, you’ll receive guidelines for optimal care during the adjustment period.
2. Practice Excellent Daily Oral Hygiene
Brush your teeth twice daily and floss once a day, paying special attention to where the crown meets your gum line. Bacteria can still cause decay at this junction if plaque builds up. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. When flossing around a crown, slide the floss out from the side rather than pulling up, which could dislodge the crown.
3. Avoid Hard and Sticky Foods
While crowns are strong, they’re not indestructible. Avoid chewing ice, hard candy, or popcorn kernels. Stay away from sticky foods like caramel or taffy that can pull on your crown. If you eat something hard like nuts or crusty bread, chew carefully and use your other teeth when possible.
4. Protect Your Crown from Grinding
If you grind or clench your teeth at night, tell your dentist. This habit puts excessive pressure on crowns and can cause them to crack or come loose. A custom nightguard protects your crown and your natural teeth from grinding damage. Many patients don’t realize they grind their teeth until their dentist notices the signs.
5. Address Sensitivity Promptly
Some sensitivity to hot or cold is normal right after getting a crown, but it should fade within a few weeks. If sensitivity persists or worsens, contact our office. This could indicate that the crown needs adjustment or that the tooth underneath has an issue requiring attention. The Mayo Clinic provides helpful information about what to expect after crown placement.
6. Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools
Never use your crowned tooth (or any tooth) to open packages, tear tags, or crack nuts. These actions put extreme stress on crowns and can cause them to chip, crack, or come loose. Keep scissors and bottle openers handy instead of risking damage to your dental work.
7. Maintain Regular Dental Checkups
Visit Eddleman Dental every six months for cleanings and exams. We check your crown at each visit to make sure it’s functioning properly and the seal remains intact. Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar that regular brushing can’t reach, protecting both your crown and the tooth underneath it. Regular visits also allow us to catch small problems before they become major issues.
8. Watch for Warning Signs
Contact our Monroe office if your crown feels loose, if you notice a gap between the crown and your gum, or if the crown cracks or breaks. Also call if you experience pain when biting down or persistent sensitivity. Quick attention to these issues can often save your crown and prevent more extensive treatment. Early intervention is always easier and less expensive than waiting until a problem worsens.
Why Choose Eddleman Dental for Your Dental Crown
At Eddleman Dental, we use the latest technology and highest quality materials to create crowns that look natural and last for years. Our experienced team takes precise impressions and works closely with skilled dental laboratories to ensure your crown fits perfectly and matches your other teeth.
We understand that dental work is an investment, which is why we accept most insurance plans and offer financing options to make your treatment affordable. Our Monroe location serves patients with convenient appointment times that fit your schedule.
Whether you need a single crown or multiple restorations, we’ll create a treatment plan tailored to your needs and budget. We believe everyone deserves a healthy, confident smile, and we’re here to make that happen for you.
Ready to Restore Your Smile?
Don’t let a damaged or decayed tooth hold you back from eating the foods you love or smiling with confidence. If you need a dental crown in Monroe or want to learn whether a crown is right for you, contact Eddleman Dental today.
Our friendly staff will schedule a consultation where we can examine your tooth, discuss your options, and answer all your questions. We’ll explain the entire process, give you a clear cost estimate, and help you feel confident about moving forward with treatment.
Call us today or visit our website to book your appointment. We look forward to helping you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile that lasts.
Conclusion: Invest in Your Smile Today
Dental crowns represent one of the most reliable ways to restore and protect damaged teeth. With proper care and regular dental visits, your crown can serve you well for many years, allowing you to eat comfortably, speak clearly, and smile confidently.
At Eddleman Dental in Monroe, LA, we’re committed to providing high-quality crowns and exceptional patient care. We use proven techniques and premium materials to ensure your crown looks natural, fits perfectly, and stands the test of time. Our goal is to help you maintain excellent oral health while giving you a smile you’re proud to show off.
Don’t wait until a damaged tooth becomes a bigger problem. If you’ve been told you need a crown, or if you have a tooth that’s causing you pain or concern, reach out to us today. We’ll evaluate your situation, explain your options clearly, and create a treatment plan that works for you.
Contact Eddleman Dental now to schedule your consultation. Let us show you how a dental crown can restore your tooth and transform your smile. Your journey to better oral health starts with a single phone call.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Crowns
How long does it take to get a dental crown?
The traditional process takes two visits over about two to three weeks. During the first visit (typically 60 to 90 minutes), we prepare your tooth and take impressions. You’ll wear a temporary crown while the lab creates your permanent one. The second visit (usually 30 to 60 minutes) involves removing the temporary crown and cementing the permanent crown in place.
Does getting a crown hurt?
No, the procedure shouldn’t hurt. We use local anesthesia to numb the area completely before preparing your tooth. You’ll feel pressure but no pain during the appointment. Some patients experience mild sensitivity or soreness after the anesthesia wears off, but this typically fades within a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers usually manage any discomfort.
How much does a dental crown cost?
Crown costs vary based on the material used, which tooth needs the crown, and your insurance coverage. Porcelain and ceramic crowns typically cost more than metal crowns. Most dental insurance plans cover 50% of crown costs. At Eddleman Dental, we provide detailed cost estimates during your consultation and work with you to find payment options that fit your budget.
Can a crowned tooth get cavities?
The crown itself can’t decay, but the tooth underneath it can develop cavities where the crown meets the gum line if plaque builds up there. This is why proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits are essential. Brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings protect the tooth under your crown just like they protect your natural teeth.
What’s the difference between a crown and a filling?
Fillings repair small to medium areas of decay by filling the cavity after removing the damaged portion. Crowns cover the entire tooth and are used when damage is too extensive for a filling to provide adequate support. If more than half of your tooth structure is compromised, a crown is usually the better choice for long-term stability and protection.
How do I care for a temporary crown?
Be gentle with temporary crowns since they’re held in place with temporary cement. Avoid sticky foods like gum or caramel that could pull the crown off. Chew on the opposite side when possible. Brush carefully around the temporary crown, and when flossing, slide the floss out sideways rather than pulling up. If your temporary crown comes off, call our office right away.
Will my crown look natural?
Yes, modern dental crowns look completely natural. We match the color, shape, and size to your surrounding teeth so your crown blends seamlessly with your smile. Porcelain and ceramic materials reflect light just like natural tooth enamel. Most people won’t be able to tell you have a crown unless you point it out to them.
Can crowns be whitened?
No, crowns don’t respond to whitening treatments because they’re made from materials that resist staining. If you’re considering teeth whitening, do it before getting a crown so we can match the crown to your newly whitened teeth. If you already have crowns and want whiter teeth, talk to your dentist about your options, which might include replacing older crowns after whitening.