Protecting a Tooth That Needs More Than a Filling
A crown is a custom-made cap that covers the entire visible portion of a tooth, restoring its strength, shape, and size once too much of the natural structure has been lost or weakened. It is often the recommended option when a cavity is too large for a filling, when a tooth has cracked, or when a tooth has already had root canal treatment and needs extra protection against future fracture.
At All About Smiles Dentistry in Durant, crowns are made from durable ceramic material that is shade-matched to your surrounding teeth, so the finished result blends in rather than standing out. Every crown is custom fitted to the exact shape of your prepared tooth, which is part of what makes it feel secure and comfortable once it is in place.
Schedule a Crown ConsultationWhen a Crown Is the Right Solution
A few common situations tend to call for a crown rather than a smaller restoration.
- A cavity too large for a filling to repair
- A tooth that has cracked or is at risk of cracking further
- A tooth that has had root canal treatment
- A large, aging filling that is beginning to fail
- Restoring a dental implant
What Crowns Are Made From
Most crowns placed today use ceramic or porcelain materials because they provide a strong, durable restoration while maintaining a natural appearance. The material can be carefully shade-matched to your surrounding teeth, helping the crown blend smoothly with your smile instead of looking like a separate restoration.
Ceramic crowns are also designed to handle the everyday pressure of biting and chewing. Depending on where the crown is needed and the condition of your tooth, our team at All About Smiles Dentistry will recommend the material that best supports your comfort, function, and smile goals.
Getting a Crown, From Start to Finish
Most crowns are completed over two visits, with a short waiting period in between while your custom crown is crafted.
Preparing the Tooth
The tooth is numbed and reshaped slightly to make room for the crown, removing any decay along the way.
Taking an Impression or Scan
A detailed impression or digital scan of your prepared tooth is used to design a crown that fits precisely.
Placing a Temporary Crown
A temporary crown protects your tooth and keeps you comfortable while your permanent crown is being made.
Crafting Your Custom Crown
Your crown is shaped and shade-matched based on the impression or scan taken at your first visit.
Checking Fit and Color
At your second visit, we confirm your new crown fits comfortably and blends in with your surrounding teeth.
Bonding the Permanent Crown
Once everything looks and feels right, the crown is bonded securely in place.
Caring for a New Crown
A dental crown is designed to function like a natural tooth, but it still requires consistent care to maintain its appearance and strength. Brushing twice a day, flossing around the crown, and keeping up with regular dental visits help protect the tooth underneath and the surrounding gums.
To keep your crown in good condition:
- Brush and floss daily to remove plaque around the crown and gumline.
- Avoid chewing ice, hard candies, or other extremely hard foods that may damage the crown.
- Do not use your teeth to open packages or bite non-food items.
- Maintain routine dental cleanings and exams
- Contact our team if your crown feels loose, uncomfortable, or different when you bite.
With proper care and regular dental checkups, your crown can continue protecting your tooth and supporting your smile for many years.
How Long Crowns Last
With good care, a dental crown typically lasts ten to fifteen years, and many crowns continue functioning even longer. The lifespan of a crown depends on several factors, including the condition of the underlying tooth, your bite pressure, oral hygiene habits, and how well you protect your restoration.
Regular visits to All About Smiles Dentistry in Durant allow our team to monitor your crown and check for early signs of wear, damage, or changes around the tooth. Addressing small concerns early can help extend the life of your restoration and protect your overall oral health.
Protect a Weakened Tooth Before It Gets Worse
A cracked or heavily filled tooth tends to get more fragile over time, not less. Call our Durant, OK, team at 580-924-0660 or request an appointment online, and we will let you know whether a crown is the right fit for your tooth.
Book a VisitFrequently Asked Questions About Dental Crowns
Most dental crowns are completed in two visits at All About Smiles Dentistry. During the first appointment, our Durant, OK, dental team prepares the tooth, takes impressions or digital scans, and places a temporary crown. At the second visit, your custom crown is checked for fit and bonded securely in place.
The tooth is numbed before the crown procedure begins, so most patients experience little to no discomfort during treatment. Some mild sensitivity or tenderness after the appointment is normal and usually improves within a few days. Our team at All About Smiles Dentistry in Durant, OK will provide guidance to help you stay comfortable during recovery.
A dental crown can often last ten to fifteen years or longer with proper care. Patients who maintain good oral hygiene and visit All About Smiles Dentistry in Durant for regular exams and cleanings can help protect their crown and the tooth underneath.
Yes. At All About Smiles Dentistry in Durant, OK, crowns are designed to match the color, shape, and appearance of your surrounding teeth. Ceramic and porcelain materials allow your crown to blend naturally with your smile.
A filling may not provide enough support when a tooth has extensive decay, large damage, or a crack. A crown covers the entire visible portion of the tooth, helping restore strength and protect the remaining tooth structure. Our Durant dental team will recommend a crown only when it is the right solution for your specific needs.
Although dental crowns are made to be durable, they can become loose or damaged due to wear, injury, or habits that place excessive pressure on the tooth. If you notice movement, discomfort, or changes in your bite, contact All About Smiles Dentistry in Durant, OK for an evaluation.
Yes. All About Smiles Dentistry welcomes patients from Durant and nearby communities, including Calera, Colbert, Bennington, and surrounding Bryan County areas. Our team provides custom dental crowns to help restore damaged, weakened, or heavily treated teeth.
Many dental insurance plans provide coverage for crowns when they are needed to restore a damaged or weakened tooth, though coverage varies by plan. The team at All About Smiles Dentistry in Durant can review your benefits and help you understand your options before beginning treatment.