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There is a point past which a damaged tooth needs more than a filling can provide. When decay has consumed too much tooth structure, a crack has run too deep, or a tooth has been hollowed out by previous treatment, a restoration that only patches part of the surface will not hold. A dental crown addresses this directly by fitting over the entire visible portion of the tooth, rebuilding its shape and strength so it can function normally again.
At Lexington Family Smiles, we place dental crowns as part of our restorative dentistry services in Lexington, SC. Dr. Michael Moulton and our experienced team take a conservative approach to every treatment decision, recommending a crown only when it is genuinely the right solution. Our goal is always to preserve as much healthy tooth structure as possible while delivering a restoration built to last.
Several conditions make a crown the most appropriate path forward. A cavity too large for a composite filling in Lexington to support safely is one of the most common. When decay removes a significant portion of the tooth, a filling lacks the structural foundation it needs, making the tooth vulnerable to cracking under biting pressure. Similarly, a tooth that has been weakened by multiple restorations over the years may require a crown to hold it together and protect it from fracturing.
Cracked teeth and post-root-canal protection are two other situations where a crown is routinely recommended. A crack that extends into the dentin causes pain with each bite as the two halves of the tooth flex slightly, and a crown stops that movement by encasing the tooth. After root canal therapy, the treated tooth often becomes brittle and prone to fracture, so placing a crown over it restores full function and significantly reduces the risk of breaking.
Crowns are fabricated from several types of materials, and the right choice depends on the location of the tooth, how much natural structure remains, and your goals for both appearance and durability. Ceramic and porcelain crowns are well suited for front teeth because they replicate the color and translucency of natural enamel. Zirconia is a stronger ceramic option that handles the heavy bite forces of back teeth while still offering a natural, tooth-colored look. According to the American Dental Association’s MouthHealthy resource, crowns can also be used to anchor dental bridges in Lexington, protect weak teeth from fracturing, and cover dental implants.
Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns combine a metal substructure for strength with a porcelain outer layer for aesthetics. They carry a long track record in dentistry, particularly for molars. We will walk you through your options based on your specific tooth and treatment goals before any work begins, so you feel fully informed going into the procedure.
Getting a crown at our Lexington office typically takes two visits. During the first, we prepare the tooth by shaping it to create a uniform space for the crown to fit over. We then take detailed impressions or a digital scan of the prepared tooth and surrounding teeth, which is sent to a dental laboratory to fabricate your custom restoration. A temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth while your permanent crown is being made.
When your permanent crown is ready, usually within one to two weeks, you return for the second visit. We remove the temporary crown, evaluate the fit, shape, and color of the final restoration, and make any necessary adjustments before cementing it permanently in place. Once seated, the crown is polished, and your bite is checked to ensure everything feels comfortable and natural.
Most well-maintained crowns last between ten and fifteen years, with many lasting significantly longer depending on the material, the location of the tooth, and how consistently good oral hygiene is practiced. Back teeth endure more force with every bite, so molar crowns may show wear sooner than those placed on front teeth.
Daily brushing, flossing, and keeping up with regular dental cleanings in Lexington go a long way in extending the life of your crown. Patients who clench or grind at night should mention this during their appointment, as a custom night guard can protect both the crown and the surrounding teeth from the excess force those habits create.
Here are answers to the questions patients ask us most before starting treatment.
With consistent home care and routine professional visits, most crowns last ten to fifteen years or more. The lifespan varies based on material, tooth location, and habits like grinding. We assess the condition of existing crowns at every checkup to catch any signs of wear before they become larger issues.
Tooth-colored crowns made from ceramic or zirconia are crafted to match the shade, shape, and translucency of your surrounding teeth. In most cases, once a crown is properly placed and polished, it is not distinguishable from the natural teeth around it.
Crown costs vary depending on the tooth being restored and the material selected. We accept financing through Cherry, CareCredit, and Alphaeon. Patients without dental insurance may also find value in our Dental Savings Plan, which provides discounted rates on restorative services including crowns.
Most dental insurance plans offer partial coverage for crowns placed for functional, restorative reasons. We participate in insurance through a dental advocacy group that helps maximize reimbursement on behalf of our patients. Our team reviews your benefits before any appointment so you know exactly what to expect before treatment begins.
Lexington Family Smiles has been delivering industry-leading dental care to Lexington, SC, families for more than a decade. From cleanings for children to restorative work for grandparents, our practice brings comprehensive family dentistry under one roof with a comfort-first philosophy and advanced diagnostic technology. Dr. Michael Moulton and our team are ready to help you protect a compromised tooth before small problems turn into larger, more costly ones.
If you are experiencing tooth pain, sensitivity when biting, or have been told a crown may be necessary, contact our office today to schedule your consultation in Lexington, SC.
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