Dental Crowns
A tooth that is damaged or decayed can cause pain and make it difficult to eat and speak.
A dental crown can provide strength to the tooth structure to restore your chewing strength, health, and appearance.
Learn how Dr. Mason Pirtle in Charlotte, NC, can help create and place a natural-looking, custom dental crown.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped shell, often made of porcelain, that fits over a tooth. This provides strength and protection to the tooth while also preserving the tooth structure. Dental crowns are used at our Charlotte dental office to address:
Damaged or worn teeth can become susceptible to further damage. A dental crown is used to prevent more serious issues with the compromised tooth.
If you have a decayed tooth, a dental crown is often recommended when a filling cannot provide adequate reinforcement. This is a common type of application.
Root canal treatment is often necessary to clear up an infection within a tooth. Typically, a dental crown is placed following treatment to strengthen the tooth.
A dental crown can be paired with a dental implant to replace a single missing tooth. Dental crowns are also used on anchoring teeth to secure dental bridges.
If dental bonding or veneers aren't a good option to treat cosmetic imperfections such as cracks, chips, or discoloration, a dental crown may be used to cover the tooth.
Benefits of Dental Crowns
Restored Function
A damaged or decayed tooth can impact your comfort, chewing strength, and more. A dental crown addresses these issues to restore your ability to bite and chew comfortably.
Restored Appearance
Issues like chips and cracks can be embarrassing for some patients. A dental crown is a natural-looking restoration that enhances your smile.
Restored Oral Health
Tooth decay can cause oral health concerns and even lead to tooth loss. A dental crown can prevent issues from developing, help preserve the tooth structure, and guard against extraction – an important tool to protect your bone health.
Wondering if a Dental Crown Is Right for You?
Request a free consultation with our dentist today
If you suffer from dental trauma, tooth decay, or a missing tooth, treatment options can seem overwhelming. We are here to help. Our dental practice, led by Dr. Mason Pirtle, is dedicated to providing expert and personalized dental care to each patient who walks through our doors. We provide a wide range of dentistry treatments to best serve those in Ballantyne and Charlotte, NC.
We offer free consultations, work with most insurance plans to reduce your cost, and also accept CareCredit® financing to make your treatment more affordable.
Request your free consultation today. Reach out to our Charlotte dental practice by calling us or by contacting us online.
(704) 771-1371
Proudly Serving Ballantyne and Charlotte With Expert Dental Care
Anthony Eckert
Charlotte, NC
2023
Dr. Mason and the whole staff is great. Comes highly recommended!
View on GoogleDiana Kravchenko
Charlotte, NC
2023
Dr. Pirtle and his team are all so sweet. After years of dental anxiety, they made me feel so comfortable at their office. I truly enjoy going there now
View on GoogleWe are conveniently located in Ballantyne and serve communities in and around Charlotte, NC, with elite, individualized dental care.
Concerned About the Costs?
We understand that costs are an important consideration for patients undergoing any dental procedure. We do not want financial barriers to prevent our patients from achieving healthy and beautiful smiles. Here is how we make dental crown treatment more accessible:
Insurance
We work with most insurance plans and providers to reduce or even eliminate your out-of-pocket costs. Our skilled staff will verify your coverage before treatment begins so you can accurately plan and budget.
Financing
For those without insurance or to cover any costs not covered by your dental insurance, our Charlotte office accepts CareCredit®. This allows patients to break the cost of treatment into affordable monthly payments.
Payment Options
To cover out-of-pocket costs, our dental practice accepts cash and Visa.
Dental Crown Treatment Timeline
This timeline can vary based on your unique needs. Keep in mind that dental implant placement will add several months and additional appointments.
We provide an elite level of customer service throughout every stage of your treatment.
All that is left to do is enjoy your new smile. Have questions about the dental crown timeline? Contact our Charlotte, NC, dentistry practice. We are happy to help.
Ready to Get Started?
A damaged or decayed tooth can compromise your smile, and it can also make it difficult and even painful to chew and speak. A dental crown made of durable porcelain will not only restore the appearance of the tooth, but its function while relieving your pain. For those missing a tooth, a dental crown supported by an implant can fill in the gap to provide you with the same restoration benefits.
If you are ready to get started on your smile restoration journey, request a consultation by filling out our online form or by calling our practice in Charlotte, NC, today.
(704) 771-1371
Hear from More Satisfied Patients
Meghan Kirkland
Charlotte, NC
2023
Dr. Pirtle is the best. He really takes time to listen to your issues and explores all the possible alternatives to help fix them. He is pleasant, kind, calm, personable, and professional. I am glad that I have found such a wonderful doctor.
View on GoogleMarsha Kennedy
Charlotte, NC
2023
I had two emergencies with fillings that came out and both times the staff and dentist were wonderful and got me in the same day. Everyone here is super nice and helpful. I highly recommend Precision dental partners. They made me feel safe and well taken care of!
View on GoogleTake a Closer Look At Dental Crown Placement
After removing a small amount of enamel, the crown is secured to the tooth structure. Your dental crown will look, feel, and function just like a natural tooth.
How Does an Implant-Supported Crown Work?
The timeline for an implant-supported dental crown is different, as it requires dental implant placement surgery first. During this procedure, your dentist will insert a titanium post into your jawbone. After a healing period of at least a few months, the abutment is attached and then the dental crown can be secured to the implant.
Dental implants offer maximum stability, as well as health benefits to prevent deterioration of the jawbone.
Dental Crown Care and Maintenance
Caring for your dental crown is easy. Here are a few tips to protect your restoration for years to come:
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
It is important to maintain good oral hygiene. Floss daily and brush your teeth at least twice a day to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Be Mindful of Certain Foods
While dental crowns are made from durable porcelain, it is best to be mindful of sticky or hard foods, like caramel and popcorn kernels that can potentially damage your dental crown. When possible, chew or bite using teeth that do not have a restoration.
Visit Your Dentist
Visit your dentist regularly for exams and cleanings. This will not only help keep your teeth and gums healthy but can allow your dentist to catch issues before they become worse.
"Visit after visit, the end result is exactly the same- outstanding service and experience. Dr. Pirtle and staff excel at making you feel at ease, but more than that, they do such a great job at making you feel excited about coming in." William Clements 3
Dental Anxiety Is No Problem With the Help of Sedation
We understand that even visiting a dentist is difficult for some patients. Our Charlotte dental office offers sedation dentistry to help patients with dental anxiety or phobia, sensitive teeth or a sensitive gag reflex, and even those who struggle to sit still. Depending on your needs, Dr. Pirtle might recommend one of three types of sedation, including:
Nitrous Oxide
Also known as laughing gas, nitrous oxide is breathed in to induce a state of relaxation so you can comfortably undergo treatment. It is the lightest form of sedation offered. It also wears off quickly once it is stopped, meaning patients can drive immediately afterward and go about their day normally.
Oral Conscious
For this method of sedation, Dr. Pirtle will prescribe an anxiety medication that is taken about an hour before your appointment. This medication helps patients remain calm and comfortable, but conscious during their procedure. You will need an adult to drive you to and from your appointment.
Intravenous
Intravenous (IV) sedation induces deep relaxation. However, you are not completely unconscious. IV sedation can be adjusted to achieve the level of relaxation you need. An anesthesiologist monitors you throughout to ensure your safety, and you will need an adult to drive you to and from your appointment.
Dental Crowns Frequently Asked Questions
Why not just pull damaged or decayed teeth?
Pulling teeth is a last resort for your dentist. Even a single missing tooth can lead to jawbone deterioration and can require more extensive dentistry treatments later such as dental implants or bone grafting. By preserving the tooth structure, your dentist can restore and protect your oral health, function, and appearance in the most conservative way possible.
How long do dental crowns last?
Dental crowns are made of high-quality porcelain and with proper care, can last for 15 years or more. However, it is important to remember that the crown will wear over time and eventually need to be replaced.
Does dental crown placement hurt?
No. Your dentist will thoroughly numb the area before treatment begins to ensure you do not feel any discomfort. We also offer sedation options at our Charlotte, NC, dental office to ensure you are completely comfortable during treatment.
What is the difference between a cap and a crown?
There is no difference between a cap and a dental crown. A cap is simply an outdated term used for a dental crown.
Will people be able to tell I have a dental crown?
No. Your dentist will shade-match your dental crown with the surrounding teeth so that it blends seamlessly with your natural smile. Your dental crown will be virtually indistinguishable from your natural teeth, which is one of many reasons porcelain crowns are favored above metal crowns.
What happens if my temporary crown falls off while I am waiting for my permanent crown?
If your temporary crown becomes loose or falls out, save the crown and call our Charlotte dental practice as soon as possible. As long as the temporary crown is not damaged, Dr. Pirtle can often re-bond the temporary crown in place until your permanent dental crown arrives at our office.
Have more questions?
"I can't say enough about my overall wonderful experience..."
Judy Nelbach
Charlotte, NC
2023
I can't say enough about my overall wonderful experience at Precision Dental from the bright, super clean office, Lexi, the office admin.who is always so patient, kind & helpful. I had a wisdom tooth removed, and 2 cavities filled.. Dr. Pirtle, explains everything & i never felt rushed. Dr. P & his assistant Lily went above & beyond to make me feel safe & they were very understanding & patient with my anxiety/fears..Highly recommend PD.
View on GoogleViolet Richardson
Charlotte, NC
2023
A round of applause for Precision Dental!! My whole life I have been terrified to go to the dentist, but knowing that I needed to get a lot of work done, I took a leap of faith after hearing such wonderful things about this office and staff. I need sedation because of my dental anxiety and they provide not only that, but they make sure I'm always at ease and comfortable. I will never go anywhere else!
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