Welcome to Deer Creek Dental, your premier destination for dental crowns in Harlowton and Lewistown, Montana. Led by Dr. Tyson C. Smith, our practice has been at the forefront of restoring smiles with the highest quality dental crowns. Whether you’re from Harlowton, Lewistown or surrounding areas like Lewistown, Judith Gap, or Ryegate, we’re here to ensure your dental health is in the best hands.
What Are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are custom-made restorations that fit over the entire part of a tooth above the gum line, essentially becoming the tooth’s new outer surface. Think of a crown as a protective cap that completely encases a damaged or weakened tooth. They are used to restore the shape, size, strength, and appearance of a tooth while providing long-lasting protection. At Deer Creek Dental, we utilize the latest technology and materials to craft crowns that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, ensuring both function and aesthetics are perfectly balanced.
Modern dental crowns can be made from various materials including porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, or a combination of materials. Dr. Tyson C. Smith carefully selects the most appropriate material based on the location of the tooth, your bite pattern, and aesthetic preferences to ensure optimal results for each patient.
When Are Crowns Recommended?
Dr. Tyson C. Smith may recommend a dental crown for several important reasons. Crowns are ideal for protecting a weak tooth from breaking or cracking, especially after root canal treatment or when a tooth has been significantly weakened by decay. They’re also essential for restoring an already broken tooth, covering and supporting a tooth with a large filling when there isn’t enough natural tooth structure remaining, or holding a dental bridge securely in place.
Additionally, crowns are excellent solutions for covering misshapen or severely discolored teeth that don’t respond well to whitening treatments, and they’re necessary to cover dental implants. Our aim at Deer Creek Dental is to preserve your natural teeth whenever possible, and crowns often provide the perfect solution for doing just that while maintaining your oral health and smile aesthetics.
The Dental Crown Process
The process of getting a dental crown at our Harlowton or Lewistown dental office is straightforward and typically involves two comfortable visits. During your first appointment, our dentist will thoroughly examine the affected tooth and may take X-rays to assess the tooth’s root and surrounding bone structure. A detailed impression or digital scan of your mouth is taken to ensure your crown fits perfectly.
The tooth receiving the crown is then carefully reshaped by removing a small amount of enamel to make room for the crown. This process is performed under local anesthesia to ensure your complete comfort. A temporary crown is placed to protect the prepared tooth while your custom crown is being crafted in our trusted dental laboratory.
During your second visit, typically 2-3 weeks later, the temporary crown is gently removed, and your new permanent crown is carefully fitted and adjusted to ensure proper bite alignment and comfort. Once Dr. Smith confirms the perfect fit and appearance, the crown is permanently cemented into place, giving you a fully restored, functional tooth.
Benefits of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns offer numerous significant benefits that extend far beyond simple tooth restoration. They provide exceptional protection to weakened teeth, preventing further damage and potentially saving you from more extensive treatments in the future. Crowns restore full chewing function, allowing you to enjoy all your favorite foods without discomfort or concern.
From an aesthetic standpoint, crowns can dramatically improve the appearance of your smile by correcting shape, size, and color irregularities. They’re also incredibly durable and long-lasting with proper care, making them an excellent investment in your oral health. At Deer Creek Dental, we believe in providing solutions that not only meet your immediate needs but also contribute to your long-term oral health and confidence.
Pros and Cons
Advantages: Dental crowns offer remarkable durability, often lasting 10-15 years or more with proper care. They provide excellent protection for weakened teeth and can significantly improve both function and appearance. Crowns are also versatile, suitable for front and back teeth, and can be color-matched to blend seamlessly with your natural smile. The treatment has a high success rate and can prevent the need for tooth extraction.
Considerations: The crown placement process does require permanent alteration of the natural tooth structure, as a small amount of enamel must be removed. There’s a brief adjustment period as you get used to your new crown, and very rarely, some patients may experience temporary sensitivity. Additionally, while crowns are durable, they may eventually need replacement after many years of service. At Deer Creek Dental, Dr. Tyson C. Smith takes every precaution to minimize any risks and ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients from Harlowton, Lewistown and surrounding communities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Crowns
How long do dental crowns last?
With proper care and regular dental visits, dental crowns typically last between 10 to 15 years, and many last even longer. Factors that influence longevity include oral hygiene habits, diet, and whether you grind your teeth. Regular check-ups at Deer Creek Dental help our dentist and team monitor your crown and extend its lifespan through preventive care.
Are dental crowns painful?
The crown procedure itself is not painful. Dr. Smith uses local anesthesia during tooth preparation to ensure your complete comfort throughout the process. Some patients may experience mild sensitivity for a few days after the procedure, but this typically resolves quickly. We provide detailed aftercare instructions to minimize any discomfort.
How do I care for my dental crown?
Caring for a crown involves the same excellent oral hygiene practices as caring for your natural teeth: brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing regularly, and maintaining regular visits to Deer Creek Dental for professional cleanings and check-ups. Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice or using your teeth as tools.
Will my dental insurance cover the cost of a dental crown?
Most dental insurance plans, including the PPO plans accepted by Deer Creek Dental, provide partial coverage for dental crowns, typically covering 50-80% of the cost after your deductible. Coverage varies by plan, so we recommend checking with your specific insurance provider. Our team is happy to help verify your benefits and discuss payment options.
How do I know if I need a dental crown?
Common signs that you might need a dental crown include persistent tooth pain, a large filling that’s failing, a cracked or broken tooth, or significant tooth wear. If you’re experiencing any dental discomfort or have concerns about a tooth’s appearance or function, the best way to determine if a crown is right for you is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Tyson C. Smith at Deer Creek Dental.
Can I eat normally with a dental crown?
Yes! Once your permanent crown is placed and you’ve adjusted to it (usually within a few days), you can eat normally. Crowns are designed to withstand normal chewing forces and restore full function to your tooth. However, we recommend avoiding extremely hard foods like ice or hard candy to protect both your crown and natural teeth.
At Deer Creek Dental, we’re committed to providing our patients from Harlowton and the surrounding areas including Lewistown, Judith Gap, and Ryegate with exceptional dental care. If you’re considering dental crowns or have questions about restoring your smile, let us help you achieve optimal oral health with confidence. Contact us today at 406-632-4511 to learn more about our comprehensive dental crown services or to schedule your consultation with Dr. Smith.