Category :

What is a Dental (Tooth) Crown?

 It is estimated that approximately 15 million Americans have dental crowns or dental bridges. A dental crown is also referred to as a cap. A dental crown is a type of dental restoration that is used to cover, stabilize, strengthen,  and protect a damaged tooth. Here’s what to know about dental crowns including why you need one, and what to expect when getting a crown.

Reasons You May Need a Dental Crown

Your dentist will recommend a dental crown for a variety of reasons. Teeth that have significant decay that can not be treated with a dental filling may require a crown. Likewise, teeth that have small cracks, and have become weakened may be held together and fortified with a dental crown.  

Severely worn down teeth, or teeth that are broken may also be restored with a dental crown.  In other cases, a discolored or misshapen tooth may be covered with a crown.  

Dental crowns are also used in conjunction with other cosmetic or restorative dental treatments. For example, if decay reaches the interior of the tooth, or if you develop an infection in the pulp of the tooth, you’ll need a root canal. The placement of a permanent crown is necessary following a root canal. 

If you are replacing missing teeth with a dental bridge, you may need to have dental crowns placed on the adjoining teeth to support the bridge. Finally, dental crowns are affixed to dental implants if you undergo dental implant surgery.

Types of Dental Crowns

All dental crowns serve the same purpose: to protect your natural tooth beneath it. However, not all dental crowns are made of the same material. Your dentist will go over the options most appropriate for your unique situation. Dental crowns may be made of:

  • Ceramic

Ceramic dental crowns are a popular choice because they can be color-matched to match your other teeth. 

  • Porcelain Fused to Metal

These crowns are durable and strong and also look very natural.

  • Gold Alloys

Gold alloys may be recommended for those who grind their teeth at night. These crowns may be best suited for patients requiring a stronger type of restoration.

  • Base Metal Alloys

These dental crowns may be needed if there is severe wear of a tooth, resulting in less existing tooth structure.

What to Expect When Getting a Dental Crown

If you need a dental crown, don’t panic. The procedure is not painful. But it can require two visits. During your first visit,  painless digital imaging tests will be performed so that your dentist can confirm there is no existing infection that needs to be treated before placing the crown.

Next, your existing tooth will need to be shaped to place the crown. The area surrounding the tooth to be treated will be completely numbed. Your dentist will then remove all decay, and shave down the tooth. You will not feel any pain during this process.  

Once the tooth has been shaped to hold the crown, an impression of your tooth will be made, using a state-of-the-art digital intraoral scanner. This scan is completely painless, as it only involves a handheld wand being swabbed around in your mouth. The impression will be used to create your new dental crown. To complete your initial visit you’ll have a temporary crown placed on the treated tooth. 

You’ll return to the dentist once your crown has been received from the lab. During this appointment, your dentist will ensure that your new crown fits perfectly before permanently attaching it. Your dentist may make minor adjustments to the crown, to ensure that your bite is aligned and the crown fits snugly. Then the crown will be permanently bonded to your tooth, and your treatment will be complete.

Schedule a Dental Exam in Vilonia, AR

Lane Family Dentistry provides comprehensive dental treatment including restorations such as dental crowns in Vilonia, convenient to Mount Vernon, Enola, and Rose Bud. Request an appointment online or call 501-796-3903 today.

t is estimated that approximately 15 million Americans have dental crowns or dental bridges. A dental crown is also referred to as a cap. A dental crown is a type of dental restoration that is used to cover, stabilize, strengthen,  and protect a damaged tooth. Here’s what to know about dental crowns including why you need one, and what to expect when getting a crown.
Reasons You May Need a Dental Crown
Your dentist will recommend a dental crown for a variety of reasons. Teeth that have significant decay that can not be treated with a dental filling may require a crown. Likewise, teeth that have small cracks, and have become weakened may be held together and fortified with a dental crown.

Severely worn down teeth, or teeth that are broken may also be restored with a dental crown.  In other cases, a discolored or misshapen tooth may be covered with a crown.

Dental crowns are also used in conjunction with other cosmetic or restorative dental treatments. For example, if decay reaches the interior of the tooth, or if you develop an infection in the pulp of the tooth, you’ll need a root canal. The placement of a permanent crown is necessary following a root canal.

If you are replacing missing teeth with a dental bridge, you may need to have dental crowns placed on the adjoining teeth to support the bridge. Finally, dental crowns are affixed to dental implants if you undergo dental implant surgery.
Types of Dental Crowns
All dental crowns serve the same purpose: to protect your natural tooth beneath it. However, not all dental crowns are made of the same material. Your dentist will go over the options most appropriate for your unique situation. Dental crowns may be made of:

Ceramic

Ceramic dental crowns are a popular choice because they can be color-matched to match your other teeth.

Porcelain Fused to Metal

These crowns are durable and strong and also look very natural.

Gold Alloys

Gold alloys may be recommended for those who grind their teeth at night. These crowns may be best suited for patients requiring a stronger type of restoration.

Base Metal Alloys

These dental crowns may be needed if there is severe wear of a tooth, resulting in less existing tooth structure.

What to Expect When Getting a Dental Crown
If you need a dental crown, don’t panic. The procedure is not painful. But it can require two visits. During your first visit,  painless digital imaging tests will be performed so that your dentist can confirm there is no existing infection that needs to be treated before placing the crown.

Next, your existing tooth will need to be shaped to place the crown. The area surrounding the tooth to be treated will be completely numbed. Your dentist will then remove all decay, and shave down the tooth. You will not feel any pain during this process.

Once the tooth has been shaped to hold the crown, an impression of your tooth will be made, using a state-of-the-art digital intraoral scanner. This scan is completely painless, as it only involves a handheld wand being swabbed around in your mouth. The impression will be used to create your new dental crown. To complete your initial visit you’ll have a temporary crown placed on the treated tooth.

You’ll return to the dentist once your crown has been received from the lab. During this appointment, your dentist will ensure that your new crown fits perfectly before permanently attaching it. Your dentist may make minor adjustments to the crown, to ensure that your bite is aligned and the crown fits snugly. Then the crown will be permanently bonded to your tooth, and your treatment will be complete.

Schedule a Dental Exam in Vilonia, AR
Lane Family Dentistry provides comprehensive dental treatment including restorations such as dental crowns in Vilonia, convenient to Mount Vernon, Enola, and Rose Bud. Request an appointment online or call 501-796-3903 today.

How Long Does A Dental Cleaning Take?

There are certain steps you need to take in order to maintain your oral health. Brushing and flossing your teeth every single day is a great place to start, but you can’t stop there. Professional dental cleanings at your dentist’s office at least every six months can mean the difference between good oral hygiene and great oral hygiene. 

It is one thing to know that you need a dental cleaning – it is another to make and keep your appointment. Truth is, it doesn’t take very long and you walk out of the office with so many benefits. 

Why You Need Professional Cleanings

Just as you go to your primary care doctor for routine follow-ups and to get routine blood work, you need to visit your dentist, too. Consider it the best way to ensure your oral health is at its optimal level. 

Dental cleanings are part of caring for your health. Without them, you will have plaque buildup that will lead to decay and infection. In turn, not only will your oral health be impacted, but your overall health, too. When you see your dentist every six months, as recommended by the American Dental Association, you are able to keep your teeth clean and free of buildup. Plus, you will have an examination by the dentist which allows any problem areas to be caught before they turn into something more concerning down the road. 

Cleanings are too important to put off or dismiss and should be considered an integral part of your health regimen. 

What Happens During a Dental Cleaning?

Dental cleanings are preventative measures to protect against cavities and more complex dental issues. At these appointments, the teeth are cleaned thoroughly and monitored for any changes. 

Each dental office may have slight variations in its routine cleanings, but they generally consist of a combination of cleaning, dental x-rays, a comprehensive oral examination, and an oral cancer screening.  

If it is time for x-rays, this may be done at the beginning of your appointment. This is used as a diagnostic tool to ensure there are no issues or areas that need to be addressed that may not be visible to the naked eye. Note that x-rays are not taken at every cleaning appointment unless there is a concern that needs to be addressed. 

The cleaning itself is pretty routine in its attempt to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth. Your teeth will also be polished and flossed during the visit, too. And, of course, a good rinse to top off your clean mouth. Depending on your dentist or need, a fluoride treatment may be administered and dental sealants may be applied. 

Once your pearly whites are feeling fresh and clean, the dentist will do a comprehensive oral evaluation to examine your teeth and perform an oral cancer screening. If there are any areas of concern, your dentist may suggest a treatment. Otherwise, you can simply book your 6-month  cleaning appointment and be on your way.

How Long Does a Dental Cleaning Take? 

Dental cleanings are designed to be convenient so that you are in and out of the office quickly – and won’t hesitate to make the appointment twice each year. This crucial step in your oral hygiene routine typically lasts less than an hour – and you get to reap the benefits.

If you are in need of a dental cleaning, Lane Family Dentistry is available. We offer preventative care and a comprehensive list of dental services for your entire family. 

To learn more or to schedule an appointment, contact us today at 501-796-3903. Or, request an appointment online. 

There are certain steps you need to take in order to maintain your oral health. Brushing and flossing your teeth every single day is a great place to start, but you can’t stop there. Professional dental cleanings at your dentist’s office at least every six months can mean the difference between good oral hygiene and great oral hygiene.

It is one thing to know that you need a dental cleaning – it is another to make and keep your appointment. Truth is, it doesn’t take very long and you walk out of the office with so many benefits.

Why You Need Professional Cleanings

Just as you go to your primary care doctor for routine follow-ups and to get routine blood work, you need to visit your dentist, too. Consider it the best way to ensure your oral health is at its optimal level.

Dental cleanings are part of caring for your health. Without them, you will have plaque buildup that will lead to decay and infection. In turn, not only will your oral health be impacted, but your overall health, too. When you see your dentist every six months, as recommended by the American Dental Association, you are able to keep your teeth clean and free of buildup. Plus, you will have an examination by the dentist which allows any problem areas to be caught before they turn into something more concerning down the road.

Cleanings are too important to put off or dismiss and should be considered an integral part of your health regimen.

What Happens During a Dental Cleaning?

Dental cleanings are preventative measures to protect against cavities and more complex dental issues. At these appointments, the teeth are cleaned thoroughly and monitored for any changes.

Each dental office may have slight variations in its routine cleanings, but they generally consist of a combination of cleaning, dental x-rays, a comprehensive oral examination, and an oral cancer screening.

If it is time for x-rays, this may be done at the beginning of your appointment. This is used as a diagnostic tool to ensure there are no issues or areas that need to be addressed that may not be visible to the naked eye. Note that x-rays are not taken at every cleaning appointment unless there is a concern that needs to be addressed.

The cleaning itself is pretty routine in its attempt to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth. Your teeth will also be polished and flossed during the visit, too. And, of course, a good rinse to top off your clean mouth. Depending on your dentist or need, a fluoride treatment may be administered and dental sealants may be applied.

Once your pearly whites are feeling fresh and clean, the dentist will do a comprehensive oral evaluation to examine your teeth and perform an oral cancer screening. If there are any areas of concern, your dentist may suggest a treatment. Otherwise, you can simply book your 6-month  cleaning appointment and be on your way.

How Long Does a Dental Cleaning Take?

Dental cleanings are designed to be convenient so that you are in and out of the office quickly – and won’t hesitate to make the appointment twice each year. This crucial step in your oral hygiene routine typically lasts less than an hour – and you get to reap the benefits.

If you are in need of a dental cleaning, Lane Family Dentistry is available. We offer preventative care and a comprehensive list of dental services for your entire family.

To learn more or to schedule an appointment, contact us today at 501-796-3903. Or, request an appointment online.

What is Dental Implant?

Dental implants are the gold standard when it comes to artificial tooth replacement. They look and function much like a real tooth – and unless you say otherwise, no one will ever know it’s fake.

As the world of dental implants continues to grow, more and more people are taking advantage of what they have to offer. If you have a missing tooth – or teeth – and you are wondering what all the hype is about, you’ve come to the right place.

What is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant consists of a titanium post that is implanted into your jaw bone – and a dental crown that is attached. Together, they create the perfect finished product.

The titanium post that is placed in the jaw bone is designed to act as an artificial root. This ‘root’ becomes a strong anchor for the tooth. After implantation, it will take several weeks for the post to fuse with the jaw bone. Once it does, you will move forward with the next step – adding an abutment to the post and attaching the dental crown. This is all that is needed for the tooth to be ready to go.

The jaw bone must have the right density to be able to securely hold the implant. In certain cases, bone grafting may need to be done to add extra bone structure before the implantation can take place. Keep in mind that this will extend the amount of time necessary for the treatment to be completed.

Benefits of a Dental Implant

As you can probably tell, dental implants come with a long list of benefits. And, while a boost of confidence is a big one, there are other benefits, too, including:

  • It blends perfectly with the real teeth that surround it
  • Prevents bone loss
  • Will not change the shape of your face (which can happen with tooth loss)
  • Allows you to speak naturally
  • Supportive to the surrounding teeth
  • Promotes good oral health
  • Functions like a real tooth – even its bite force
  • Not susceptible to decay or other oral health concerns
  • Easy to care for, fitting right in with your oral hygiene routine
  • A permanent solution to tooth loss

A Lifelong Solution

Dental implants are a lifelong solution. The implant itself will never have to be replaced, as it is fused with your bone. On the other hand, dental crowns do often succumb to wear and tear after about 10 to 15 years – longer for those who take exceptional care of it. These are simple enough to replace as the old one will get detached and the new one will be placed in its spot.

It is important to note that the initial cost for dental implants may seem steep, but unlike other alternatives, they are a long-term solution. In fact, dental implants are one of the best solutions to replace missing teeth.

Dental Implants at Lane Family Dentistry

At Lane Family Dentistry, we want our patients to feel as though they can smile and feel confident every single time. For many, dental implants may be just what they need for the transformation.

Ready to get started? Contact us today at 501-796-3903 . Or, request an appointment online.

Dental implants are the gold standard when it comes to artificial tooth replacement. They look and function much like a real tooth – and unless you say otherwise, no one will ever know it’s fake.

As the world of dental implants continues to grow, more and more people are taking advantage of what they have to offer. If you have a missing tooth – or teeth – and you are wondering what all the hype is about, you’ve come to the right place.
What is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant consists of a titanium post that is implanted into your jaw bone – and a dental crown that is attached. Together, they create the perfect finished product.

The titanium post that is placed in the jaw bone is designed to act as an artificial root. This ‘root’ becomes a strong anchor for the tooth. After implantation, it will take several weeks for the post to fuse with the jaw bone. Once it does, you will move forward with the next step – adding an abutment to the post and attaching the dental crown. This is all that is needed for the tooth to be ready to go.

The jaw bone must have the right density to be able to securely hold the implant. In certain cases, bone grafting may need to be done to add extra bone structure before the implantation can take place. Keep in mind that this will extend the amount of time necessary for the treatment to be completed.
Benefits of a Dental Implant

As you can probably tell, dental implants come with a long list of benefits. And, while a boost of confidence is a big one, there are other benefits, too, including:

It blends perfectly with the real teeth that surround it
Prevents bone loss
Will not change the shape of your face (which can happen with tooth loss)
Allows you to speak naturally
Supportive to the surrounding teeth
Promotes good oral health
Functions like a real tooth – even its bite force
Not susceptible to decay or other oral health concerns
Easy to care for, fitting right in with your oral hygiene routine
A permanent solution to tooth loss

A Lifelong Solution

Dental implants are a lifelong solution. The implant itself will never have to be replaced, as it is fused with your bone. On the other hand, dental crowns do often succumb to wear and tear after about 10 to 15 years – longer for those who take exceptional care of it. These are simple enough to replace as the old one will get detached and the new one will be placed in its spot.

It is important to note that the initial cost for dental implants may seem steep, but unlike other alternatives, they are a long-term solution. In fact, dental implants are one of the best solutions to replace missing teeth.
Dental Implants at Lane Family Dentistry

At Lane Family Dentistry, we want our patients to feel as though they can smile and feel confident every single time. For many, dental implants may be just what they need for the transformation.

Ready to get started? Contact us today at 501-796-3903 . Or, request an appointment online.

What Do You Do if Your Tooth is Cracked Under Dental Crown?

If you have a tooth that has had decay and infection, you’ve likely undergone root canal treatment. This procedure works to clean out the bad stuff and then seals up a fresh, healthy tooth. So often, this process leaves quite a hole in the middle of the tooth, making a regular filling unfeasible. With its integrity in jeopardy, a dental crown is used to bring strength and restore functionality – but it doesn’t make the tooth invincible.

Sometimes your tooth may still crack under the dental crown. It is important to know the signs and what you should do if it happens.

Signs of a Cracked Tooth

You can’t always see a cracked tooth – especially when it is covered by a crown. The best thing you can do is to pay attention to any changes you feel and make an appointment with your dentist as soon as you notice them.

Below are the most common signs that you may have a cracked tooth:

  • Pain in the tooth when you bite down or chew.
  • Pain that is often intermittent and not constant. However, when referring to a fracture rather than a crack, you may experience chronic pain.
  • Sensitivity to temperatures, such as drinking or eating something cold or hot. Also, sugary foods, too.
  • Infection around the gum line. This area may become sensitive and you may have a small bump appear.

Sometimes there may be no signs at all of a cracked tooth.

What Causes a Cracked Tooth Under a Dental Crown? 

There are many reasons that you may be feeling signs of trouble due to a cracked tooth under your crown. It is easy to assume that a tooth is now strong because it looks and acts like it is – thanks to the crown’s protection. And, while it is much stronger than it would be without it, you still have a weak tooth underneath. If you don’t take the right care, you could risk cracking it.

You can encounter trouble if you:

  • Regularly grind or clench your teeth at night (known as bruxism)
  • Bite down on something hard or crunchy (popcorn kernels and ice are two common culprits)
  • Fall or otherwise suffer trauma to the mouth

Even normal wear and tear over time can cause things to weaken more.

How to Handle Your Cracked Tooth

The only proper way to handle your cracked tooth involves a visit to the dentist.

You cannot visibly see your tooth that is under a crown which is why if you experience any of the above signs – or any changes at all – you need to have the tooth thoroughly examined. After all, your cracked tooth may also cause damage to or dislodge your crown. By assessing the tooth and the surrounding area – through digital x-rays – it may be possible to see the crack.

Treatment can vary and may include the use of bonding and/or replacing the crown. As a last resort, if the dentist feels that the structure of the tooth is beyond salvaging, extraction may be warranted.

Cracked Teeth and Crowns at Lane Family Dentistry

Lane Family Dentistry offers a full, comprehensive list of dental services – including those that treat a cracked tooth under a dental crown. If you are experiencing any of the signs above or if something just doesn’t feel right, contact us today at 501-796-3903 . Or, request an appointment online.

 

How Much Does It Cost To Get A Full Mouth Of Dental Implants?

Although dental implants have been around for awhile, it seems like only in recent years have people started to understand their full power – that not only can a dental implant replace one missing tooth with a natural-looking, fully functional alternative tooth. But, dental implants can replace all teeth, giving you a mouth full of beautiful teeth.

Unlike dentures, dental implants are a more permanent, natural option. Though, it is no secret that dental implants can be quite costly – especially when seeking a full mouth of dental implants. So, how much does it cost?

The Cost of a Full Mouth of Dental Implants

Truth be told, there are a lot of factors that go into dental implants. Therefore, it is best to talk it over with your dentist to understand the specific costs for your personal situation. However, just to give you an idea, it is not unlikely for a full mouth of dental implants to cost $30,000 or more.

Thankfully there are some dental insurances that can help cover this cost, as well as financing options – often with 0% financing options for the first 6 months.

The cost of having a mouth of incredible teeth that give you an unforgettable smile — and work just like real teeth – is going to cost you. But there is a big difference between the real feel of dental implants and artificial teeth like dentures, for instance.

Factors That Impact the Cost

There are many factors that may impact the cost of your dental implants. Sometimes, depending on your personal situation, there will be additional services required to make your dental implants a possibility. These additional impacts include:

Consultation Fees. Whether or not you have an established relationship with a dentist or you are having an initial consultation for dental implants, you may incur a fee for this.

Imagining and Scans. For dental implants, it is important that your dentist has up-to-date x-rays before the implanting can commence. This gives your dentist an idea of the best place for the implants – and can even show just how healthy and strong the jawbone is.

Extractions. Teeth that are broken or decayed will have to be removed for the dental implants. If you are getting a full mouth of new teeth, then all of your old ones will need to be extracted. This, too, will add to the cost of the implants.

Bone grafts. Depending on how healthy your jawbone is, your dentist may recommend a dental bone graft. This procedure is used to add additional bone to ensure that your implants will be anchored securely for years to come. There are different types of bone grafts that range in price. Be sure to talk to your dentist about your pricing options if bone grafting is required.

Crowns. The tooth that goes on top of the implant is a crown. Each crown is custom-designed to match your mouth, your bite, etc.

Anesthesia. Not everyone requires full sedation for dental implants. But for a full mouth of dental implants – and depending on the patient – local anesthesia may not be the best option.

Keep in mind that these additional costs may or may not be needed. It is best to talk it over with your dentist to determine the best course of treatment to get you the dental implants you need, while working to keep everything as on budget as possible.

Dental Implants at Lane Family Dentistry

Getting dental implants is a personal decision, but one that can change your life. And the professional team at Lane Family Dentistry is here to help create your brand new smile. So, whether you have one missing tooth or a mouthful of missing teeth, we can help.

Contact Lane Family Dentistry at 501-796-3903. Or, request an appointment online.

Although dental implants have been around for awhile, it seems like only in recent years have people started to understand their full power – that not only can a dental implant replace one missing tooth with a natural-looking, fully functional alternative tooth. But, dental implants can replace all teeth, giving you a mouth full of beautiful teeth.

Unlike dentures, dental implants are a more permanent, natural option. Though, it is no secret that dental implants can be quite costly – especially when seeking a full mouth of dental implants. So, how much does it cost?

The Cost of a Full Mouth of Dental Implants

Truth be told, there are a lot of factors that go into dental implants. Therefore, it is best to talk it over with your dentist to understand the specific costs for your personal situation. However, just to give you an idea, it is not unlikely for a full mouth of dental implants to cost $30,000 or more.

Thankfully there are some dental insurances that can help cover this cost, as well as financing options – often with 0% financing options for the first 6 months.

The cost of having a mouth of incredible teeth that give you an unforgettable smile — and work just like real teeth – is going to cost you. But there is a big difference between the real feel of dental implants and artificial teeth like dentures, for instance.

Factors That Impact the Cost

There are many factors that may impact the cost of your dental implants. Sometimes, depending on your personal situation, there will be additional services required to make your dental implants a possibility. These additional impacts include:

Consultation Fees. Whether or not you have an established relationship with a dentist or you are having an initial consultation for dental implants, you may incur a fee for this.

Imagining and Scans. For dental implants, it is important that your dentist has up-to-date x-rays before the implanting can commence. This gives your dentist an idea of the best place for the implants – and can even show just how healthy and strong the jawbone is.

Extractions. Teeth that are broken or decayed will have to be removed for the dental implants. If you are getting a full mouth of new teeth, then all of your old ones will need to be extracted. This, too, will add to the cost of the implants.

Bone grafts. Depending on how healthy your jawbone is, your dentist may recommend a dental bone graft. This procedure is used to add additional bone to ensure that your implants will be anchored securely for years to come. There are different types of bone grafts that range in price. Be sure to talk to your dentist about your pricing options if bone grafting is required.

Crowns. The tooth that goes on top of the implant is a crown. Each crown is custom-designed to match your mouth, your bite, etc.

Anesthesia. Not everyone requires full sedation for dental implants. But for a full mouth of dental implants – and depending on the patient – local anesthesia may not be the best option.

Keep in mind that these additional costs may or may not be needed. It is best to talk it over with your dentist to determine the best course of treatment to get you the dental implants you need, while working to keep everything as on budget as possible.

Dental Implants at Lane Family Dentistry

Getting dental implants is a personal decision, but one that can change your life. And the professional team at Lane Family Dentistry is here to help create your brand new smile. So, whether you have one missing tooth or a mouthful of missing teeth, we can help.

Contact Lane Family Dentistry at 501-796-3903. Or, request an appointment online.

Load More