Cracked, chipped, or misshapen teeth can be damaging to your appearance. Dental crowns are a versatile and effective cosmetic modification that can improve the look of your smile while also protecting and restoring strength to your teeth. If you have decayed or damaged teeth, Dr. Hatcher and the team at Triad Dentistry in Greensboro, explain how dental crowns may be the solution for you.
Initial examination
During this appointment, Dr. Hatcher will evaluate the tooth to determine the cause of the issue and formulate a treatment plan. Teeth that have small cavities may only require a filling to be restored. Sometimes the cavity can appear small, but has actually gone deep into the tooth, necessitating a crown. Once it is determined that a crown is the best method for restoration, preparation for the crown can begin.
Preparation
Most of the time, your custom crown can be fabricated in our office using state of art prime scan technology. In these cases, only one visit is needed to both design and permanently cement your new crown. However, sometimes the Doctor may decide to use a different material that would require your crown to be made in an offsite lab.
In these cases, impressions are taken and sent to a lab for custom fabrication of a permanent crown. In the meantime, you will be fitted with a temporary restoration. This allows us to protect the tooth and gives you the functionality to chew and speak properly while waiting for the permanent crown.
Permanent placement
Once your permanent crown has arrived at our office, we will schedule you to have it placed. Dr. Hatcher will begin by removing the temporary restoration and will clean and prepare the tooth. He will evaluate the fit, alignment, and color of your new crown before adhering it permanently with special dental cement.
With proper dental care and hygiene, dental crowns can last as long as fifteen years. Avoiding habits such as grinding your teeth will help ensure they don’t crack or chip. Porcelain crowns are a biocompatible material that looks similar to natural tooth enamel. Porcelain is durable and provides patients with a healthy and natural looking restoration. Crowns can be used for a variety of reasons including anchoring a dental bridge, covering a dental implant, or cosmetically for patients who are unable to receive porcelain veneers.
If you have teeth that are broken, damaged, or decayed, call Triad Dentistry today to schedule an appointment. We will be happy to perform an initial evaluation and decide on the best solution to restore beauty and functionality to your smile.
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Dr. Steven L. Hatcher is a skilled dentist with extensive expertise in oral health and
patient care. A
University of North Carolina alumnus with a background in biology and cancer research, Dr.
Hatcher's military service at prestigious locations, including Fort Meade and the Pentagon, underscores his
commitment to excellence. He is a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry and an active member of several
professional associations. Recognized for his dedication through numerous awards, including Army
Commendation Medals, Dr. Hatcher continually advances his knowledge through ongoing education. His
patient-centered approach ensures personalized, long-term oral wellness.
Dr. Chad T. Merrell, a dedicated dentist with 16 years of experience, combines his deep
expertise and advanced training to provide exceptional care. A
Temple University School of Dentistry alumnus
and Advanced Education in General Dentistry resident at UNC-Chapel Hill, Dr. Merrell is skilled in advanced
dental techniques. His commitment to patient care, treating each as family, underscores his trustworthiness.
His background includes a B.S. in Zoology from
N.C. State University and an Eagle Scout honor, highlighting
his long-standing dedication to excellence. You can trust Dr. Merrell for compassionate, cutting-edge dental
care.
Dr. Sona J. Isharani is a board-certified pediatric dentist renowned for her compassionate
care and expertise. With a background that combines hands-on parenting experience and specialized training,
Dr. Isharani excels in creating a comforting, home-like environment for children and their families.
Affectionately known as "Dr. Sona," she emphasizes education and preventive care to ensure lifelong dental
health. At Triad Pediatric Dentistry, she provides exceptional dental care and maintains continuity of care
as children transition to adulthood, reflecting her commitment to building trust and fostering long-term
relationships with her patients.
Dr. Bailey Walker is a dedicated general dentist known for her compassionate care and
patient-centered approach. With a B.Sc. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biology from
Illinois State University and a Doctor of Medical Dentistry degree from
Southern Illinois University, she
combines extensive academic knowledge with hands-on expertise. Dr. Walker is pursuing a fellowship with the
Academy of General Dentistry, underscoring her commitment to professional excellence. Her community
engagement includes dental mission trips and volunteering for underserved populations. Dr. Walker’s emphasis
on patient education and her caring nature foster a trusted, positive dental experience.
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