Transform Your Smile and Boost Your Oral Health with Dental Crowns
Sometimes you can’t avoid tooth damage. When the remaining structure can’t support a dental filling, dental crowns in Middletown, Delaware, can help restore your tooth to its full beauty and function. Expertly placed at Bright Dental, Brianna Rafetto, D.M.D., P.A., dental crowns are designed to look natural and feel just like your own teeth.
What are dental crowns?
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped restoration worn over the visible portion of your tooth. A dental crown strengthens, protects, and beautifies your compromised tooth. At our dental office, Dr. Brianna Rafetto uses premium crown materials that closely mimic the appearance of natural teeth. Your crown blends with the surrounding teeth for a seamless, realistic appearance.
Why would I need a dental crown?
Dental crowns are small, but they have multiple uses in dentistry. Your Middletown dentist can use dental crowns to:
- Strengthen a weakened tooth: A crown reinforces a weakened tooth or holds a cracked tooth together.
- Improve aesthetics: Crowns can enhance the appearance of a misshapen or stubbornly discolored tooth.
- Repair significant damage: A dental crown is preferable to a filling or onlay if there isn’t enough remaining structure.
- Replace a missing tooth: We use dental crowns to complete dental implants or bridges to fill gaps left by missing teeth.
Are there different types of dental crowns?
Yes! Dental crowns come in several types, each designed for different needs. Porcelain and zirconia crowns are the most natural-looking. Their aesthetics make them ideal for front teeth, although they can be used anywhere in the mouth. Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns offer a balance of strength and aesthetics. However, they can wear out over time, revealing a visible dark appearance at the gum line. Metal or gold crowns are very durable, but they don’t offer the best aesthetic appeal.
What can I expect from the dental crown procedure?
Placing dental crowns requires 2-3 appointments. After examining your tooth with X-rays, the dentist prepares it by removing some enamel on all sides. Next, the dentist takes precise scans of your tooth and sends them to our trusted partner lab for fabrication. It takes 2-3 weeks for the dental lab to manufacture your crown. Meanwhile, we’ll place a temporary crown on your tooth.
Once your permanent crown arrives at our office, we’ll contact you to schedule your appointment. During this visit, the dentist will carefully check the crown’s color, shape, and fit to ensure it looks natural and feels comfortable. If everything is just right, she will use strong adhesives to secure your crown.
How long does a dental crown last?
Porcelain crowns can last 10-15 years, while metal crowns can last up to 20 years. Good maintenance prolongs the longevity of your restorations. So, brush and floss your teeth diligently and visit your dentist routinely for cleanings and check-ups.
How is a dental crown different from a veneer?
A dental crown covers the entire tooth, restoring its strength and function when it is severely damaged or weakened. A veneer only covers the front surface of a tooth. Dr. Rafetto uses veneers to enhance the appearance of discolored, worn-down, or uneven teeth. Generally, dental crowns are restorative, while veneers are primarily cosmetic.
How much does a dental crown cost in Middletown, DE?
The cost depends on the material used and the complexity of your case. We always provide a precise cost breakdown after consultation. We’ll also explore how we can make your treatment affordable with insurance or dental financing.
Where can I find high-quality dental crowns in Middletown, DE?
Do you have a damaged, decayed, or worn-down tooth? Don’t wait to get treatment! Dial (302) 391-6222 and restore your smile with expert dental crown services at Bright Dental Brianna Rafetto D.M.D., P.A. Trust our team to deliver durable, natural-looking restorations.
