FAQs About Dental Crowns: What You Need to Know from Dr. Wayne Suway

Dental crowns are one of the most common restorative procedures in dentistry, offering both cosmetic and functional benefits. Whether you’re dealing with a weakened tooth, a large cavity, or a tooth that’s had a root canal, a dental crown can provide the protection and support your tooth needs.

At Dr. Wayne Suway’s dental practice in Marietta, we’ve helped countless patients restore their smiles with high-quality dental crowns. With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Wayne Suway is a trusted expert in cosmetic and restorative dentistry. Here are the most frequently asked questions we receive about dental crowns.

1. What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that is placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. It completely encases the visible portion of the tooth above the gumline, offering a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution.

Crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, or a combination of these. Porcelain and ceramic crowns are popular for their natural appearance, as they can be color-matched to your existing teeth.

2. When Would I Need a Dental Crown?

There are several reasons why Dr. Suway may recommend a dental crown, including:

• To protect a weakened tooth: If a tooth is cracked, decayed, or structurally compromised, a crown can protect it from further damage.
• After a root canal: Following a root canal, a tooth can become fragile, and a crown helps protect it from breakage.
• To restore a broken tooth: Crowns can rebuild the structure of a tooth that’s been chipped or broken.
• For cosmetic improvements: Crowns can cover misshapen or severely discolored teeth to enhance your smile’s appearance.
• To support a dental bridge: Crowns can hold a dental bridge in place, filling gaps left by missing teeth.

3. How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

With proper care, dental crowns can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years, and sometimes even longer. It’s important to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly and visiting your dentist for routine checkups. While crowns are durable, habits like grinding your teeth or chewing on hard objects can shorten their lifespan.

Dr. Wayne Suway provides crowns that are built to last, using high-quality materials to ensure durability and aesthetic appeal. He takes into account your specific needs and lifestyle to recommend the best crown material for you.

4. What Is the Process for Getting a Dental Crown?

The process of getting a dental crown typically requires two visits to Dr. Suway’s Marietta office. Here’s what you can expect:

• First Visit: Preparing the Tooth
  • Dr. Suway will begin by examining and preparing the tooth. This may involve removing any decay and shaping the tooth to make room for the crown. If necessary, a temporary crown will be placed over the tooth while your permanent crown is being crafted in a dental lab.
• Second Visit: Placing the Permanent Crown
  • Once your custom crown is ready, Dr. Suway will remove the temporary crown and fit the permanent one onto your tooth. He will make any necessary adjustments to ensure a perfect fit and then cement the crown into place.

Dr. Suway’s meticulous approach ensures that your crown not only looks natural but also functions like a real tooth.

5. Do Dental Crowns Require Special Care?

Caring for a dental crown is much like caring for your natural teeth. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using an antibacterial mouthwash can help keep your crown and surrounding teeth healthy. Additionally, avoid biting down on hard objects, like ice or pens, which could damage your crown.

Dr. Suway emphasizes regular dental checkups to monitor the health of your crowns and catch any potential issues early on.

6. What Makes Dr. Wayne Suway the Best Choice for Dental Crowns?

With over three decades of experience, Dr. Wayne Suway has become a leading dentist in the Marietta area for cosmetic and restorative dentistry. He is dedicated to providing personalized, high-quality care for each of his patients, ensuring that their crowns are not only functional but also beautiful. Dr. Suway’s extensive training and commitment to patient satisfaction have earned him a reputation as one of the best dentists in the region.

Dr. Suway holds certifications in implant and cosmetic dentistry, making him well-equipped to handle complex dental issues that require crowns. His attention to detail, combined with his use of the latest dental technology, ensures that every crown he places is of the highest quality.

7. Are There Alternatives to Dental Crowns?

In some cases, alternatives like veneers, inlays, or onlays may be considered, depending on the specific issue with your tooth. However, crowns are often the best solution for teeth that are severely weakened or damaged. Dr. Suway will work with you to determine the best treatment plan for your needs.

Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Wayne Suway Today

If you’re considering a dental crown or need a dental evaluation, contact Dr. Wayne Suway in Marietta today. With his vast expertise in restorative dentistry, Dr. Suway is committed to helping you achieve a strong, healthy, and beautiful smile.