What Are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a custom restoration that fits over a damaged or compromised tooth, acting like a strong protective cap. It restores the tooth’s shape, size, and alignment while reinforcing it against further wear or breakage. Crowns are often recommended when a tooth has:
- Extensive decay or a large filling
- Cracks or chips
- Been treated with a root canal
- Cosmetic imperfections such as discoloration or irregular shape
By covering the entire visible portion of the tooth, a crown helps restore both the appearance and long-term strength of the tooth.
Types of Dental Crowns Offered
At Southern Smiles Dental Studio, we offer custom crowns tailored to meet your unique needs.
Traditional Crowns
Traditional crowns are crafted in a dental lab after precise impressions of your teeth are taken. While the final crown is being made, a temporary crown is placed to protect your tooth. When your permanent crown is ready, it’s adjusted for comfort and securely bonded in place.
Same-Day Crowns
We also offer same-day crowns, made right here in our Columbia, SC, office using advanced digital technology. After scanning your tooth with 3D imaging, your crown is designed, milled, and placed—all in a single visit. This eliminates the need for multiple appointments or temporary crowns. Same-day crowns provide an excellent combination of convenience, precision, and aesthetic quality.
Benefits of Dental Crowns
- Protection and Strength: Shields weak or damaged teeth from further harm.
- Restored Function: Allows you to chew comfortably and maintain your natural bite.
- Natural Appearance: Each crown is color-matched to blend with your smile.
- Comfortable Fit: Custom design ensures secure placement and long-term comfort.
- Convenience: With same-day technology, you can leave with a fully restored tooth in just one appointment.
Crowns are a reliable, long-lasting solution that can preserve your natural tooth and prevent the need for extraction.
Materials and Customization
Our crowns are crafted from durable, high-quality materials, including porcelain and ceramic, that closely mimic the appearance of natural enamel. These materials are strong enough for daily wear while providing a realistic, translucent finish.
During your consultation, we’ll discuss your goals and recommend the most suitable option based on the location of your teeth, bite pressure, and aesthetic preferences.
Recovery and Long-Term Care
After your crown is placed, it’s normal to experience mild sensitivity for a few days as your mouth adjusts to the new crown. This usually resolves quickly. To help your crown last for years:
- Brush and floss daily, especially around the gumline.
- Avoid chewing hard foods or ice.
- Attend regular checkups for cleaning and inspection.
With good care, crowns can last 10–15 years or longer.
Restore Strength and Confidence to Your Smile
A dental crown is more than a restoration; it’s an investment in your comfort and confidence. Our dental crowns in Columbia, SC, are crafted with precision and care to protect your teeth and preserve your natural smile.
At Southern Smiles Dental Studio, we utilize advanced technology and a personalized approach to craft crowns that are both aesthetically pleasing and comfortable. Schedule your visit today to discover how we can help you achieve a lasting smile restoration.
