Dental Crowns in Merrimack

Crowns may be placed to protect a decaying tooth to keep it from chipping, or they can hold together a cracked tooth. Crowns can also fix a worn-down or loose tooth. They can be utilized to support a tooth with a lot of decay that will not take a normal filling, serve as part of a dental bridge, or mask discolored or misshapen teeth. Crowns may be glued to the tooth or connected to an implant. The material of the crown is selected with consideration to the location of the tooth. Porcelain fused to metal (PFM) or metal are typically stronger, which makes them better suited for the less visible molars and pre-molars. Porcelain or ceramic crowns are often selected for the visible teeth and customized to match the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth. In your consult, Dr. Boulard will discuss your options and help you choose the best dental crown for your needs and budget.

There are many reasons patients choose dental crowns at Something To Smile About in Merrimack, NH, including:

• Improved appearance: Our crowns match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth. This means your smile will appear completely natural.
• Improved oral health: Dental crowns can cover and protect a damaged tooth, preventing further damage to the area.
• Improved function: We can restore your ability to bite and chew properly with dental crowns.
• Improved self-esteem: Show off your smile with confidence, knowing that your teeth look great.

At your consultation in Merrimack, NH, Dr. Boulard will take dental impressions so your crown can be custom made. A temporary crown will also be made to cover your tooth while your permanent crown is being made. Once your dental crown is ready, the area to be treated will be given a local numbing anesthetic. Stronger sedation techniques may be available to soothe any dental fears or anxieties. When you are ready, Dr. Boulard will prepare the tooth by cleaning away any decay, then file down the tooth to make room for the crown. Your dental crown will be cemented to your tooth. Once set, Dr. Boulard can adjust the fit so your bite is correct.

You will be able to leave our office once your crown is placed and get back to your day. Dr. Boulard or a member of his team will teach you how to care for your dental crown, including any foods that should be avoided and how to clean your crown. During your yearly examinations at Something To Smile About in Merrimack, NH, Dr. Boulard will evaluate your dental crown and adjust it for comfort. He will let you know when your crown needs to be replaced; however, with proper care, it may last for many years. If you have any problems with your crown (it becomes loose or falls out), call our office immediately. Do not try to repair it or re-attach it because this can lead to a bad fit or infection.

What tooth problems can a dental crown fix?
There are many cosmetic and functional problems that dental crowns can fix, including teeth that are:

• Decayed
• Cracked
• Worn down
• Chipped
• Discolored
• Misshapen

Dental crowns not only give you a beautiful new tooth, but they also help to protect the tooth from damage and hold it together. If you need a dental bridge, a dental crown can also help place the bridge in your mouth, holding it in place.

Do dental crowns look like real teeth?
Yes, they do. Dr. Boulard will ensure that the color of your dental crown matches the rest of your natural teeth so that the only person who knows you have a dental crown is you.

Is getting a dental crown painful?
Getting a dental crown placed at our Merrimack, NH office is very similar to getting a filling. Dr. Boulard will numb the treatment area before he begins to make sure you are comfortable during the procedure. If pain is a concern, we also have sedation options at Something To Smile About to relieve any anxiety you may have and ensure optimal comfort. After having a crown placed, some people may experience a little tooth sensitivity, but this usually goes away after a few days and is easily soothed with over-the-counter pain relievers (always check with your physician before taking any medications).

How long does a dental crown last?
Dental crowns can be made from a variety of materials, each with its own strengths and lifespans. Typically, a dental crown can last up to 10 years and, in some cases, for 15 years or longer before needing maintenance. Good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups at Something To Smile About will greatly extend the life of your dental crown.

A single damaged or decayed tooth can be treated with a custom dental crown at Something To Smile About. Talk to Dr. Boulard about how a dental crown can shield your tooth from continued harm and keep your other teeth healthy. With a wide variety of materials available, a custom-made crown can blend with your teeth to keep your smile beautiful. Contact our dentistry team in Merrimack, NH to make an appointment with Dr. Boulard.