Porcelain Crowns

We understand that your smile is essential at Thanksgiving Point Dental in Lehi! Sometimes, that means needing extra care to restore its natural beauty. Porcelain crowns are a highly effective solution for patients who need to repair damaged or worn teeth. Our team, led by Dr. Armstrong, Dr. Clark, and Dr. Stringham, promises to deliver only the highest quality of care for every patient. Our team has your back for those looking for a restorative treatment like porcelain crowns in Lehi, UT.

Whether you’re dealing with a cracked tooth, a large filling, or cosmetic concerns, we’re here to help you achieve lasting results that look and feel great. Our practice focuses on patient-centered care, using the latest technology and methods to ensure your dental experience is comfortable and practical. Among our many services, porcelain crowns are a popular solution for restoring damaged teeth.

What are Porcelain Crowns?

Porcelain crowns in Lehi are tooth-shaped caps placed over a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its shape, size, and function. Made from high-quality ceramic materials, they blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, offering a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution. These crowns are custom-designed to match the color and contour of your surrounding teeth, resulting in a natural-looking restoration. At Thanksgiving Point Dental, our skilled dentists use cutting-edge techniques to ensure your porcelain crowns in Lehi fit comfortably and function effectively.

Do You Need a Crown?

Deciding if a porcelain crown is suitable for you depends on several factors. Common signs that a crown may be necessary include:

Severe Tooth Decay—If a significant portion of your tooth is decayed, a crown can provide the strength and support needed to protect the remaining structure.
Cracked or Broken Teeth – Teeth that are cracked or broken can benefit from a crown, which covers and protects the damaged areas, preventing further breakage.
Root Canal Treatment—After a root canal, the affected tooth may become brittle. A crown can reinforce the tooth, reducing the risk of fractures.
Large Fillings – When a tooth has a large filling, the remaining structure may not be strong enough to support regular chewing forces. A crown can provide the additional support needed.
Cosmetic Enhancement – Porcelain crowns can also improve the appearance of misshapen or discolored teeth, enhancing the overall look of your smile.

The Benefits of Porcelain Crowns

Porcelain crowns in Lehi provide numerous advantages for dental patients in the Lehi area, catering to functional and aesthetic dental needs. Here are five notable benefits:

Natural Appearance: Porcelain crowns closely resemble natural teeth, offering a seamless integration with your smile. This aesthetic quality is particularly beneficial for patients seeking an attractive and natural-looking solution.
Durability and Strength: Porcelain is a strong and durable material, providing a long-lasting restoration option. Patients can enjoy improved chewing and speaking abilities without worrying about frequent replacements.
Biocompatibility: Porcelain is well-tolerated by gum tissues, reducing the risk of allergic reactions and irritation. This makes porcelain crowns an excellent choice for patients with sensitivities to metal-based restorations.
Stain Resistance: Unlike natural teeth, porcelain crowns resist staining from foods and beverages. Patients can enjoy a bright, gleaming smile with less concern about discoloration over time.
Custom Fit and Comfort: Each porcelain crown is custom-made to fit precisely over the prepared tooth. This enhances comfort and functionality, promoting better oral health and patient satisfaction.

The Porcelain Crown Procedure Process

Initial Consultation

The journey to obtaining a porcelain crown at Thanksgiving Point Dental begins with an initial consultation. During this appointment, our experienced dentists will conduct a thorough examination of your mouth, which may include X-rays to assess the current condition of your teeth and gums. This step is crucial for determining whether a porcelain crown is the most appropriate treatment for your dental needs. Our dentists will discuss the procedure, address any concerns, and provide a detailed treatment plan tailored to your situation.

Tooth Preparation

We will follow up with tooth preparation once a porcelain crown is deemed necessary. Your dentist will gently remove a small amount of your existing tooth structure to accommodate the crown. This involves reshaping the damaged tooth to ensure a snug and secure fit for the crown. If there is significant decay or damage, we may use a filling to build up sufficient structure before proceeding. Following your tooth preparation, we will take an impression of your prepared tooth and the surrounding teeth to create a custom-fit crown.

Temporary Crown Placement

Next, we will place a temporary crown over your prepared tooth while our state-of-the-art dental lab fabricates your porcelain crown. This temporary solution protects the tooth and helps maintain its functionality while you wait for your permanent crown. It’s essential to care for your temporary crown by avoiding sticky or hard foods and maintaining proper oral hygiene.

Final Crown Fitting

When your custom porcelain crown is ready, typically after a couple of weeks, you’ll return to Thanksgiving Point Dental for the final fitting. Our dentists will meticulously check the fit and color of the crown, making necessary adjustments to ensure it matches naturally with your surrounding teeth. Once satisfied, the crown is permanently cemented onto your prepared tooth, restoring full functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Aftercare Guide for Porcelain Crowns

Proper aftercare is crucial for maximizing the lifespan and effectiveness of your porcelain crown. Below is a detailed guide to help you care for your crown and maintain your overall oral health:

Daily Oral Hygiene

Brushing: Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Pay special attention to the crowned tooth, cleaning gently around the gum line to prevent plaque buildup and decay.
Flossing: Floss daily to remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth and along the gum line. Use gentle motions to avoid dislodging the crown.

Dietary Considerations

Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods: These can damage or loosen your crown. Avoid hard candies, nuts, and chewy candies.
Limit Staining Beverages: Although porcelain crowns are stain-resistant, excessive coffee, tea, or red wine consumption can affect the surrounding natural teeth, leading to a noticeable color discrepancy.

Protecting Your Smile

Wear a Nightguard: If you grind or clench your teeth at night, wearing a nightguard can protect your crown from unnecessary stress and damage.
Prevent Injuries: If you’re involved in contact sports, wearing a mouthguard will help shield your crown and surrounding teeth from trauma.

Routine Dental Visits

Scheduled Checkups: Visit Thanksgiving Point Dental regularly for checkups and professional cleanings. We will monitor the health of your crowned tooth and make any necessary adjustments or repairs.
Immediate Attention for Issues: If you experience pain or sensitivity or notice movement in your crown, contact our office immediately. Timely intervention can prevent further complications.