Understanding the Types and Cost of Dental Crowns in Fort Mill, SC

Core Dentistry • March 9, 2022

Did you know that as many as 120 million people in the United States lack at least one tooth? When you lose one or even a few teeth, you won't have to worry about getting dentures, but you may be interested in getting dental crowns. These artificial teeth come in many shapes, sizes, and materials so they can fit your bite as well as your expectations and lifestyle.

It's not difficult to get dental crowns from your local dentist in Fort Mill, SC, but you may be worried about the types you can choose from. And, of course, the cost is also an important topic, especially if you're on a tight budget. Keep reading and learn more about dental crowns pricing and types.

The Types of Dental Crowns You Should Know About

When you're in the market for dental crowns, you have many options to choose from. Most are designed to resemble real teeth as closely as possible. However, there are some that are made out of certain metals such as gold.

To answer the question, "What do dental crowns do?" they are important for ensuring that you can bite and speak properly. Without a tooth or several teeth, you might have trouble chewing food or pronouncing certain words. They are also important for restoring self-confidence since may can get embarrassed about having a missing tooth.

Even if you still have all your teeth but some of them are damaged, you can get crowns to cover them. Doing this will protect the original tooth (because it acts much like a cap over your old tooth) and it will also improve your smile. The first type of crown you should know about is made of gold.

These, as you can imagine, are the most expensive type (they might cost several thousand dollars). They are also not perfect for everyone since some may not want the extra attention a gold crown might provide. However, gold offer the advantage of being very durable.

In fact, gold seems to be as strong as tooth enamel which is the strongest tissue in the body. For that reason, even though a gold crown might be expensive, you will certainly get the most out of your investment since it will last such a long time. Beyond the appearance, the other downside is that some people may have allergic reactions to the gold.

So, what if you want a crown that is durable but also looks like a real tooth? Your best bet might be porcelain.

Porcelain Crowns

Porcelain is one of the most popular types of crowns since they are able to look so realistic. As such, most dentists, including your local dentist, Fort Mill, SC, use them.

Porcelain crowns are also known as ceramic crowns and they are very flexible in terms of appearance. Your dentist will be able to help you pick the right porcelain that most closely resembles the color of your teeth.

The closer your artificial tooth resembles the color of your teeth, the more realistic the result. Most people won't even be able to tell that you have an artificial tooth unless you tell them. Porcelain crowns are also great for matching the shape and size of the rest of your teeth.

You also don't have to worry about any metal allergies or toxins because porcelain does not contain any kind of metal. However, if you are missing a tooth, you may need to have a metal post put into your gums to support the artificial tooth. Posts are usually made out of titanium or surgical steel to reduce any irritation and prevent allergies.

While porcelain crowns are very strong, they are not quite as strong as metal. However, you shouldn't let that deter you from getting porcelain crowns. As long as you take care of them, they should still last you a very long time.

The main downside is the cost. Because porcelain looks so realistic, it tends to be more expensive than metal. You may end up spending several thousand dollars per porcelain tooth. However, if you only need a couple of crowns, this might not be a problem.

Zirconia Crowns

What are dental crowns if not stronger and better versions of your real teeth? Zirconium is a new material that many dentists are starting to use because it is so strong. Some argue that zirconia is as strong as metal.

The advantage is that not only are zirconia crowns very strong but they are also very realistic in appearance. This is because of how the zirconium material is layered over itself to give it a translucent appearance like real teeth. If you tend to be a bit rough with your teeth, zirconia may be the best option for you.

They have a very low likelihood of chipping or cracking even if you eat hard foods. This, of course, doesn't mean you should be crunching on ice all day to see how durable your artificial teeth are. The main downside is that because zirconia crowns are so strong, they may end up damaging your surrounding teeth over time.

Zirconia crowns can also be quite expensive and are often more than porcelain.

Everything You Need to Know About the Different Types of Dental Crowns

It can be hard to decide on dental crowns if you aren't familiar with the types. By knowing the difference between metal, porcelain, and zirconia, you can be confident that you'll be able to make the right dental choice for yourself.

To learn more about dental crowns and other dental services, click here.

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How Teeth Whitening Can Brighten Your Smile for Special Occasions

By Core Dentistry • February 26, 2025

It's an unfortunate fact that all kinds of factors can lead to unsightly yellow teeth . Are you wondering what can be done to quickly upgrade your smile? Teeth whitening services can be the perfect solution. Whether it's for a wedding, graduation, or an important work event, a bright smile can leave a great impression. With the right teeth whitening solutions, you can achieve a stunning smile makeover just in time for your special occasion. Read on to learn more about it. The Vital Importance of a Bright Smile A whiter smile can make a vast difference in how people perceive you. White teeth are often associated with the following: Good health Confidence Success When you feel good about your smile, you naturally exude more self-confidence. This can help in social settings, professional environments, and even during photographs that capture your special moments. Cosmetic dental services , such as dental whitening treatments, can give you the smile you have always wanted. A white smile is more than just a surface-level improvement; it can also have great psychological benefits. Many people feel more outgoing and sociable when they aren't self-conscious about their teeth. Smiling more often can: Improve mood Reduce stress Make you appear more approachable A great smile can positively impact personal relationships , career opportunities, and first impressions, making it a valuable asset in various aspects of life. How Teeth Whitening Works Teeth whitening is a simple yet amazing way to get rid of stains and discoloration. Over time, certain foods, drinks, and habits can cause teeth to lose their brightness. Common culprits include: Coffee Tea Red wine Tobacco use Teeth whitening solutions help to lift these stains, leaving your teeth several shades whiter. While over-the-counter products may provide some improvement, they often take weeks to show any effect. Professional dental whitening treatments, like those offered at Core Dentistry , use stronger whitening agents that deliver faster and longer-lasting results. There are several kinds of teeth whitening treatments to choose from, including: In-office whitening Take-home whitening kits Over-the-counter products In-office treatments are done by dental experts and often provide the most dramatic results in the shortest amount of time. Take-home kits, on the other hand, involve using custom-made trays and professional-grade whitening gel, allowing patients to whiten their teeth at their own pace. Over-the-counter products like whitening toothpaste, strips, and gels can offer mild improvements but are generally not as effective as professional treatments. Undeniable Benefits of Professional Teeth Whitening One of the most phenomenal benefits of professional teeth whitening is the speed of results. In-office whitening treatments can make your teeth several shades lighter in just one visit. Another advantage is the long-lasting effects. Professional whitening lasts much longer compared to at-home kits, especially when you maintain good oral hygiene. Safety is another major benefit, as a trained dentist ensures that your gums and teeth are protected during the procedure. Plus, professional whitening allows for a customized treatment plan . Your dentist can fine-tune the strength of the whitening agent to suit your needs. Remember, a whiter smile can elevate your confidence like nothing else. It makes you feel more attractive and self-assured in social and professional settings. Beyond aesthetics, professional whitening can also encourage better oral hygiene. When people invest in their smiles, they tend to take better care of their teeth by brushing, flossing, and attending regular dental check-ups. This can lead to improved overarching dental health, reducing the risk of: Cavities Gum disease Other oral issues Additionally, professional whitening can remove stubborn stains that regular brushing and over-the-counter products may not be able to tackle. When to Whiten Your Teeth Before a Special Occasion Timing is important when planning your smile makeover. If you have an upcoming event, it is best to schedule your teeth whitening treatment at least one to two weeks in advance. This allows any minor sensitivity to subside and ensures you get the best results. If you opt for at-home whitening, you need to give yourself more time as it takes longer to see noticeable changes. Planning ahead ensures your smile looks its best for your special day. It is also important to consider any dental work you may need before whitening your teeth. Do you have cavities, gum disease, or other oral health issues? If so, these should be addressed before undergoing a whitening treatment. Your dentist can help assess your teeth and provide the best course of action to ensure that you achieve optimal results. Also, if you have dental restorations like crowns or fillings, it's important to note that these materials respond differently to the treatment. Maintaining Your White Smile for the Long Haul After your teeth whitening treatment, you have to take care of your teeth if you want them to retain their brightness. Avoiding foods and drinks like coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored sauces can help preserve your results. Maintain good oral hygiene, including brushing twice a day, flossing, and using a dependable toothpaste . Consistent dental check-ups and cleanings also help support your white smile. Using a straw when drinking dark beverages can reduce contact with your teeth, thereby shrinking the chances of staining. Another tip for maintaining your white smile is to rinse your mouth with water after consuming staining foods or beverages. This helps prevent pigments from settling into the enamel. You may also consider using a whitening mouthwash to enhance your results. If you notice that your teeth are beginning to stain again over time, touch-up treatments may be recommended by your dentist to keep your smile bright. Keeping up with professional cleanings and avoiding habits like smoking can also contribute to long-lasting results. It's Time to Take Advantage of Dependable Teeth Whitening Services With proper teeth whitening services , you can have an amazing smile in no time. Core Dentistry provides high-quality cosmetic dental services to help you get the smile you've always wanted. Their dental whitening treatments are safe, effective, and customized. Our team members not only have medical degrees, but they're also members of the Academy of General Dentistry, the American Academy of Clear Aligners, and more. Don't wait to schedule a teeth whitening appointment with Core Dentistry today.