How Many Appointments Does It Take To Get a Crown?

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If you’ve been told you need a dental crown, you may be wondering what that entails. The good news is that getting a crown is usually pretty straightforward, and it may take only one or two visits to your dental office. At Sand Dollar Dental, we want to help you understand the process of getting a crown in Foley, AL. Here’s what you should know.

Getting a Dental Crown: The Process

Most traditional crowns take two appointments. During your first visit, your dentist:

  • Reshapes the damaged tooth
  • Take impressions
  • Place a temporary crown

At that point, the impressions are sent off to a lab, where a new, customized and permanent crown is created for you. This crown is made to match your natural teeth, so if you are considering whitening them, remember to discuss this with your dental team to get the right color.

Your traditional crown will typically be ready in around three to four weeks.

What About a Same-Day Crown?

It is possible to get a same-day crown, which can be helpful if you don’t have the time to come back in. Not all dental offices offer this service (many don’t have the labs capable of creating a permanent crown in-house). That being said, if you need a same-day crown, you can talk to our team about it, and we will determine if that approach is what’s best for your dental health. If so, we can schedule a longer appointment to make that possible.

Schedule Your Appointment for a Crown in Foley, AL

If you need a crown (or think you might in the future), it’s time to schedule a visit with our team at Sand Dollar Dental in Foley, AL. Whether it’s a same-day crown or a traditional one that you’re hoping for, we know we can help you leave with a smile.

Why a Crown Is Important After a Root Canal

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If you’ve been told you need a root canal in Foley, Alabama, one thing you should understand is how dentists protect these repairs after they’re done. Your dentist will likely place a crown, which is designed to cover the entire tooth and protect it against breakage. Here’s more on why you need a crown after a root canal and what it can mean for the longevity of the dental repair.

How Does a Crown Protect Your Root Canal?

During a root canal, the infected pulp inside your tooth is removed. Doing this stops pain and eliminates any infection that is present, but it also means the tooth no longer has the support of a live, healthy tooth. As a result, it is more likely to crack and break.

Crowns are used as protective caps that prevent the tooth from taking on further damage or breaking under the stress of chewing, eating, or clenching the teeth.

Why You Shouldn’t Ever Skip a Crown

Without a crown, a tooth that has had a root canal can wear down or fracture from simple things like biting down on a hard piece of food. If that happens, the tooth may need additional treatment or to be extracted, leaving you with a gap that could need a bridge or dental implant. Getting a crown helps you avoid those kinds of problems and ensures the root canal lasts for as long as possible.

Learn More About Root Canals in Foley, Alabama

If you need to get a root canal in Foley and want to protect your tooth for the long term, call Sand Dollar Dental today. We’re here to talk to you about root canals, crowns, and other treatments you may need to have your teeth looking and working the best possible.

I’ve Lost a Crown…Now What?

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Losing a crown in Foley, Alabama, can be upsetting, and in some cases, potentially painful. Fortunately, this doesn’t always cause significant issues, and you may just need to have the area cleaned up and the crown put back into place.

Crowns can and do come loose for many reasons, whether it’s from everyday wear or biting down on something hard. If you act quickly, you can help preserve the crown and the dental work underneath, allowing you to prevent further need for treatment.

What Do I Do When My Crown Falls Out?

If your crown falls out:

  • Find the crown and rinse it with water.
  • Place the crown in a safe place, such as a small plastic bag.
  • Contact our dental office to schedule an appointment, and be sure to let us know that your crown has fallen off.
  • Avoid eating or drinking on the affected side of the mouth until you come to see us.

Taking these steps can help preserve your crown and the underlying structure that should support it.

Why You Need To Call the Dentist

A tooth with a crown is going to be structurally weaker than a tooth that hasn’t had work done to it. Leaving it uncovered for too long can lead to pain, cracks, or even infection.

When you come to Sand Dollar Dental, your dentist will check the tooth and decide if the crown can be re-cemented. If it can be, then it will be cemented back into place during your visit. If not, you may need a new, temporary crown until a replacement can be made.

Crown Repair in Foley, Alabama

If you have lost a crown in Foley, Alabama, call our helpful staff at Sand Dollar Dental today. We offer emergency appointments to get your day back on track.

Signs a Crown Needs Attention

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Dental crowns are long-lasting solutions for saving a natural tooth. However, they are not indestructible. Knowing when to see your crown dentist in Foley, AL, can help you avoid more serious dental problems down the road.

Pain

Pain is your body’s way of telling you something is wrong, and dental pain is not something you should ever ignore. Persistent pain and sensitivity in a tooth with a crown can be a sign that the crown is shifting or decay is building underneath. Pain can also mean the crown doesn’t fit properly.

It’s Loose

Crowns should fit tightly. Any crown that moves when you touch it indicates that the cement holding it in place is failing. A loose crown can trap debris or bacteria underneath it, leading to dental problems and decay.

Irritation

If you notice swelling, redness, or recession in the gum around the crown, it can be a sign of infection or that the crown is rubbing against the tissue. Additionally, notify your dentist in Foley, AL, if you notice any bleeding. That could also indicate an infection, or it may be a symptom of gum disease.

It Feels Weird or Different When You Bite Down

A crown should feel comfortable. If you notice a change in how it feels, it indicates a shift in the crown, which could mean there are dental problems underneath, such as an infection or loose cement.

You See Damage or Staining

Any change in the way the crown looks would be a clear sign of a problem. Cracks, chips, and broken pieces show that it is no longer stable and may break apart or fall out. Staining can indicate an infection, decay, or debris under the crown.

Contact your dentist in Foley, AL, as soon as you notice any of these warning signs or if you have questions about a crown. We can schedule a consultation to address the issue as soon as possible.

What to Expect When You Need a Dental Crown 

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Do you have any teeth that are damaged or worn? Leaving them as is can make them more vulnerable to additional damage or infections. But a dental crown can help protect them and restore their functionality. At Sand Dollar Dental, our dentists in Foley, AL, offer dental crowns as a tooth restoration option. Here’s what happens when you visit us for this treatment!

Tooth Prep

We have to take steps to make sure your tooth is all set for a crown. This typically means eliminating decayed parts and removing a small amount of enamel so the crown has room. Once your tooth is ready, we’ll take impressions that we use to have a custom dental crown made.

Temp Crown

In some cases, we might place a temporary crown on your tooth until the new one is ready. Having this crown on offers some protection, though it may not fit perfectly since it’s not a custom one.

Permanent Crown

When your new crown is ready, we’ll have you visit us again. During this appointment, we’ll take off the temporary crown and put the new one on. Our dentists make sure it fits properly on your tooth.

Crown Care

Before leaving our office, we’ll give you guidance on how to care for your new dental crown. Keeping it in good condition will help it last longer over the years for ongoing protection.

Visit Our Office for Dental Crowns!

Have you decided to have a tooth restored? Our dental crowns in Foley, AL, offer a great way to improve the appearance of worn or damaged teeth and make them functional again. Our dentists at Sand Dollar Dental can answer any other questions you have about this process!

How Do Dental Crowns Benefit Your Teeth? 

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Damage and decay can affect the appearance of your teeth and their overall function. But dental crowns can help those teeth look better again and make it easier to chew and bite foods. Our dentists in Foley, AL, at Sand Dollar Dental offer crowns to restore teeth. Let’s take a closer look at how dental crowns help your teeth!

Improved Appearance

Crowns serve aesthetic purposes, along with practical ones. We can have them made to match your natural teeth in terms of shape, color, and size. This means you can get crowns to Improve the appearance of teeth that are worn, misshapen, or discolored, giving you an enhanced smile!

Restored Functionality

Decayed or damaged teeth can make everyday motions and tasks hard to do, like chewing food or speaking to others clearly. Dental crowns bring functionality back to these teeth, allowing you to talk easily and bite or grind food while eating. These improvements can have a beneficial effect on your day-to-day life.

Long-Term Restoration Option

Dental crowns can keep your teeth functioning for a decade or more! They’re made of durable materials that last when you take proper care of them. If they do wear out or become loose, we can easily replace them with new crowns.

Additional Damage Prevention

Crowns are like caps for your teeth. They protect them from developing additional damage that can raise the risk of infections or other problems.

Set Up an Appointment for Dental Crowns!

Do you have damaged or worn teeth? Our dentists at Sand Dollar Dental offer dental crowns in Foley, AL, for tooth restoration. We can place crowns on your teeth, restoring their function and enhancing their appearance for a beautiful smile!

Top 6 Advantages of Dental Crowns 

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Are damaged teeth causing you trouble? Worn or decayed teeth can affect your smile and even make eating tough to do! At Sand Dollar Dental, our dentists in Foley, AL, can restore teeth with dental crowns. Here’s a closer look at several of the top benefits of this option!

Improved Appearance

A decayed tooth in the front of your mouth might make you hesitant to smile. Restoring it with a dental crown that matches its natural color and shape can help you feel much more confident while smiling!

Reinforcement for Worn or Weakened Teeth

Dental crowns can help make weak or eroded teeth stronger. This helps lower the risk of these teeth breaking or cracking, leading to additional dental problems.

Restored Functionality

Do you have a hard time chewing thanks to a decayed or damaged tooth? A dental crown makes eating more comfortable and easier to do.

Protection from Additional Damage

Teeth that are already weak or decayed are more prone to becoming more damaged. Dental crowns or caps cover these teeth, reducing the risk of having more damage occur.

Protection from Decay and Infections

Crowns cover affected teeth, keeping them safe from bacteria that can cause infections. They also help protect these teeth from further decay.

Durability

Did you know that crowns can last for many years before they need to be replaced? Proper care helps these restorations remain in good condition!

Find Quality Dental Care in Foley!

Do you need crowns or other restorations for your teeth? Our dental team at Sand Dollar Dental offers different types of dental crowns in Foley, AL. After evaluating your teeth, we can recommend the best way to restore them for an improved appearance and better functionality!

Aftercare Tips for Crowns and Bridges

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After spending the time and money to get a crown or bridge, you want your new dental appliance to last. These appliances are designed for long-term wear, but there are steps you can take to protect them even more. The after-care you receive and do at home will mean a big difference in how long these last.

Brush and Floss Regularly

The first thing to do is to brush and floss your teeth regularly, as you had been before. Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush, preferably with a toothpaste that contains fluoride, to keep them free of debris, then floss around the crown parts, keeping food from building up in between the teeth.

Eat Carefully

Some foods can damage your crown or bridge. Particularly hard or sticky foods are difficult. When you do have a time when you need or want to eat foods that are hard or sticky, chew carefully or try to chew on the side that does not have the crown so you can protect your appliance. Similarly, your dentist in Foley, AL, will recommend avoiding chewing non-food items, like your pen cap or fingernails, which could damage the crown.

Limit Sugar

The less sugar you eat, the better, not just for your crown, but also for your remaining teeth. Sugary foods and acidic foods lead to an increased risk of tooth decay, but you can limit this risk by limiting your consumption of them.

Get Regular Dental Checks

Finally, keep up with your twice-a-year dental checkups. You need to have a dentist in Foley, AL, to take a look regularly to ensure the crown and bridge are in good shape. You can schedule an appointment with Sand Dollar Dental if you are overdue for one of these checks.

 5 Ways to Take Care of Your Dental Crowns

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Your dental crowns help protect your tooth enamel and keep your teeth safe. Dental crowns also look beautiful. You can keep your dental crowns functioning and looking their best by taking good care of them.

Your dentist in Foley, AL, can help you care for your crowns. Below are some things we recommend for people who have dental crowns. If you have questions, ask your dentist during your next dental appointment.

1. Don’t Use Your Teeth as Scissors

It’s tempting to use your teeth to cut through packaging when you don’t have scissors on hand. Using your teeth as scissors can damage your dental crowns. Avoid using your teeth as scissors.

2. Avoid Using Abrasive Toothpaste

Abrasive toothpaste is good for whitening your teeth, but bad for your dental crowns. Using abrasive toothpaste can lead your teeth to become scratched and stained.

If you’re unsure which toothpastes are abrasive, avoid any toothpastes that say they will whiten or brighten your teeth. Not sure which toothpastes are safe for your teeth? Talk to your dentist for a recommendation.

3. See the Dentist Regularly

The dentist can help you care for your dental crowns just like your other teeth. See the dentist regularly for dental checkups and cleanings. If your dentist finds a problem with your crown, they’ll recommend treatment to help resolve the problem.

4. Address Dental Problems Quickly

Don’t wait to get help with dental problems. If you’re noticing pain or discomfort around your dental crown, see the dentist as soon as possible.

5. Maintain a Good Oral Hygiene Routine

Continue to brush your teeth twice per day just like you did before. Taking good care of your teeth can help your dental crown last as long as possible.

Do you need dental crowns in Foley, AL? Call today to make your next dental appointment.

4 Ways to Care for Your Dental Crown

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Dental crowns last a long time, but you can make them last longer with proper dental care. The things you do to take care of your dental crowns can help your crowns continue to look their best and avoid damage over time. Your dentist in Foley, AL, can help. At Sand Dollar Dental, we provide dental care and advice to help you maintain your dental crown. Below are some of the tips we provide to people with dental crowns.

1. Brush Using Non-Abrasive Toothpaste

Abrasive toothpaste can scratch and wear down your dental crown. Some toothpastes are abrasive. This helps remove stains on tooth enamel.

For a dental crown, abrasive toothpaste can have the opposite effect. Porcelain crowns have a glaze over the surface of the crown. This glaze gives the crown its sheen and helps protect the crown from stains. Using abrasive toothpaste can wear down the glaze and lead to stains! To avoid problems, use non-abrasive toothpaste.

2. Take Care to Avoid Cracking Your Crown

If you regularly chew on pen caps, ice, and other non-food items, break the habit. Chewing on things that aren’t food can lead your dental crown to become cracked and damaged.

3. See the Dentist Regularly

Visit the dentist for check-ups and cleanings twice annually. This will help your dentist catch problems with your crown before they become serious.

4. Don’t Whiten Your Teeth

Porcelain crowns can’t be whitened. If you whiten your teeth, your teeth will get whiter, and your crown will stay the same shade. Your teeth and crown will no longer match.

Want to know more about maintaining dental crowns in Foley, AL? Call the pros at Sand Dollar Dental today.