A dental crown is a cap that fits over a tooth to restore its shape, strength and appearance. Dr. Brittany Pierpont uses crowns at Pier Dental for teeth with large fillings or decay, weakened or cracked teeth, discolored or misshapen teeth, and to support bridges or cover implants.
Crowns are made to match your natural teeth, so when you smile or chew, the repaired tooth should look and feel like it belongs. Dr. Pierpont will discuss the best material for your tooth and your needs, whether porcelain, ceramic or metal.
From first visit to final fitting
A crown visit begins with an evaluation and a discussion of options. Then the tooth is reshaped to make room for the crown. We capture the shape with a digital scan, using our TRIOS scanner in place of messy molds, so the crown can be custom made.
You wear a temporary crown while the permanent one is made, then return for the final fitting, where Dr. Pierpont bonds it in place and gives you care instructions. Crowns can last 10 to 15 years or longer with good care.
Learn more: Dental Crowns at Pier Dental
Crowns after a root canal
A root canal removes infected or damaged tissue from inside a tooth so you can keep your natural tooth instead of losing it. The treated tooth is then sealed, and a crown is typically placed afterward to restore its strength and function.
If a tooth hurts when you bite or has become sensitive for no clear reason, an exam can show whether it needs a root canal, a crown or both. Early treatment often means a simpler fix.
Learn more: Root Canals at Pier Dental
Inlays and onlays: when a crown is more than you need
Sometimes a tooth has too much damage for a filling but does not need a full crown. Inlays and onlays are custom restorations made of porcelain or composite resin that repair moderate decay or damage while preserving more of your natural tooth.
After removing decay, we take a digital impression, the piece is made in a dental lab and bonded to the tooth. Dr. Pierpont will recommend the most conservative option that will do the job.
Learn more: Inlays and Onlays at Pier Dental
About St. Pete Beach
St. Pete Beach covers 19.9 square miles, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, but only 2.2 of those are land. The city occupies all of Long Key on the Gulf of Mexico, and Clearwater Beach is about 20 miles to the north. A dental office close to home makes follow-up visits easier.
Crowns usually take more than one visit, so convenience matters. Pier Dental is at 8351 Blind Pass Rd, and we treat patients from St. Pete Beach, Treasure Island, Madeira Beach, Gulfport, South Pasadena and Pass-A-Grille.
If a tooth is cracked, worn or heavily filled, do not wait for it to break. Call Pier Dental at (727) 363-6169 for an exam. If you already have pain or a broken tooth, ask for a same-day emergency appointment.
