Porcelain Crowns In Kinston, NC

At Carlyle Dentistry in Kinston, and serving the residents of Goldsboro, Greenville and the surrounding areas of North Carolina, we often receive a lot of inquiries about how porcelain crowns work and what they entail.

Many of our patients do not need immediate attention for problems like teeth that are subject to decay or trauma. Instead, they have teeth that are cracked, discolored, or otherwise affected in ways that require cosmetic attention.

It is quite common for patients to request information about porcelain crowns. Here are some of the most common questions we receive regarding porcelain crowns. If you do not see your question answered here, please do not hesitate to contact us to have your question answered.

What Are Porcelain Crowns?

Porcelain crowns are made from ceramic materials and affixed above the tooth of the patient, which seals it with a replacement material. Cosmetic porcelain crowns differ from dental implants in that they are usually given to individuals who require an enhanced aesthetic appearance. Porcelain crowns help conceal discoloration, crevices, and cracks so that you can confidently resume your daily life knowing your teeth and smile are as attractive as possible.

The Hows And Whys Of Porcelain Crowns

Porcelain crowns work by replacing the outer portion of the tooth to foster a natural appearance and restore its original function. Crowns are considered to be the best treatment when tooth decay has left most of the original tooth destroyed, severe enamel erosion has occurred, or significant damage has been caused by trauma. Crowns also help those whose original tooth structure has been severely compromised due to grinding and clenching of the teeth.

One significant benefit of porcelain crowns is they can look as good as or better than the original and replicate the original function of the tooth. Most patients who desire porcelain veneers for aesthetic reasons do so to cover the front of the tooth due to a cosmetic flaw. Porcelain crowns are thicker than veneers, which helps in many cases.

Porcelain Dental Crown Benefits

  • Porcelain crowns are regularly used as cosmetic dentistry choices.
  • Porcelain has the same strength as actual teeth and is stain-resistant.
  • Porcelain material is inert and considered completely safe for use inside the body.
  • Porcelain can be individually created to have the same shade as your original teeth.

How Long Do Porcelain Crowns Typically Last?

How long your porcelain crown will last depends mainly upon the quality of the material used to make the crown. Porcelain crowns normally last from 15 to 20 years if properly cared for and maintained. Unlike dental bridges or dentures, porcelain crowns are highly durable. We do, however, advise you to have regular dental visits to ensure proper maintenance of your crown. Should a tooth replacement be required, it is typically because there are issues with general wear and tear, tooth decay under the natural teeth, or bite.

How Long Does It Take To Put In A Porcelain Crown?

The porcelain crown process takes place in a number of steps. The first step is a consultation with Dr. Carlyle when he will decide what teeth require porcelain crowns. The next step is preparing your teeth for the crown placement. This means that tooth decay must be resolved. Therefore, tooth cleaning and polishing will be done so that the crown will fit properly.

At this stage of the process, you will have a temporary restoration so that you will have a preview of the appearance of the crown and how it will alter your bite. The construction of your crown then takes place in a lab. It will be ready in a few weeks and then, using cement, the crowns will be bonded to your tooth.

Is A Porcelain Crown Affordable?

Porcelain crowns represent a long-term investment in your teeth and smile because they can last up to 20 years. You will learn the final cost of your crown from Dr. Carlyle at your consultation. The cost depends on factors such as the number of crowns you require and if any additional work is required.

Crowns not only enhance your smile, but they are also long-lasting because of the high quality of work we provide. You will have a variety of payment options available to you, and we also can assist you by providing financing options. Please contact us so that we can answer any questions you may have regarding the financing and cost of your porcelain crowns.