May
Dental crowns are a versatile tool that can support damaged or broken teeth, and in many cases, avoid the need for extraction. However, not everyone has the time to make multiple trips to the dentist when they need treatment. Dr. Emily Andre and Dr. Frankie Thatcher at Gentle Dental Care in Durand, WI, offer same-day crowns to restore your oral health without the need for a follow-up appointment.
Dental crowns are a cap-like cover that can provide support for damaged teeth and seal out bacteria to prevent decay. Traditional dental crowns can take up to three weeks to get from the lab, while same-day crowns used are crafted in as little as 15 minutes with CEREC technology. Traditional crowns also rely on the use of dental molding, an unpleasant tasting putty that doesn’t always provide accurate results. With CERAC, Gentle Dental Care can create digital impressions in seconds with a small, handheld device.
These porcelain crowns come in eight different shades, allowing your dentist to choose the shade the best matches your teeth for a restoration that blends in with your natural teeth seamlessly. This same technology can also be utilized to create inlays or onlays, a more conservative treatment option to support damaged teeth that don’t require the full support of a crown. Porcelain crowns are durable and can last up to 15 years or more as long as you take care of your teeth.
Your dentist may recommend a crown if you have extensive tooth decay, fractured teeth, or after a root canal, or to replace an existing crown. Some patients may want a dental crown to improve the look of a chipped or stained tooth or help an uneven tooth blend in with your other teeth. If you need a crown, your dentist will begin by treating any underlying health issues, such as decay or gum disease.
Because the crown rests tightly over your tooth, the dentist will have to remove some of the outer layers of enamel and work the tooth into a smooth, round shape for a tight fit that can seal out bacteria. During the procedure, your mouth will be numbed using a local anesthetic. Though the process is painful, some people with dental anxiety may be nervous, and we choose nitrous oxide for the procedure to help them relax. Once the tooth is prepared, your dentist will take a digital impression of your tooth and use the CEREC machine to design your restoration. A blank block of ceramic will be loaded into the machine, and your restoration will be milled into shape in a matter of minutes.
Your dentist will check the fit for comfort and bond it into place using dental cement. You can resume your regular eating routine the next day. The team at Gentle Dental Care will continue to work with you to prevent further decay and infections from taking the shine out of your smile. To learn more about dental crowns, contact our offices in Menomonie and Durand, WI, today at (715) 600-9004 and (715) 230-3838 to set up an appointment.
Dr. Emily Andre, DMD, NMD, IBDM, is a trusted practitioner at Gentle Dental Care. A Durand, Wisconsin native, she completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, and earned her DMD from the University of Florida, College of Dentistry. Dr. Andre specializes in mercury-free dental practices, ensuring a safe, toxic-free environment for her patients. Her commitment to high standards and patient safety underscores her reliability and expertise in dental care. Dr. Andre is eager to provide exceptional care and build lasting relationships with the Menomonie community.
Dr. Frankie Thatcher, DDS, is a dedicated practitioner at Gentle Dental Care. Hailing from Glenwood City, WI, she earned her bachelor’s degree from Concordia University St. Paul and her DDS from the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry. While in dental school, Dr. Thatcher was actively involved in student groups and served as vice president of her class. Having been a patient of Dr. Andre for years and shadowing her, Dr. Thatcher chose Gentle Dental Care for its exceptional standards. You can trust Dr. Thatcher to provide expert and compassionate dental care.