Freeport ME Dental Crowns at Alta Dental of Maine

Damaged or worn teeth can make it difficult to chew or speak comfortably. Dental crowns offer a reliable way to strengthen and restore your teeth so they look and function naturally again. At Alta Dental of Maine, we use durable materials and precise techniques to ensure your crowns fit comfortably and last for years.

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How Dental Crowns Restore Tooth Strength and Function

Dental crowns are protective caps placed over a damaged or weak tooth. They help restore the tooth’s shape, size, and strength so you can chew and speak normally again. Crowns are often made from durable materials like porcelain or metal, which are designed to last for many years with proper care.

When a tooth is cracked or worn down, it can become sensitive and painful. A crown acts as a shield, covering the damaged part and protecting the tooth from further harm. It also helps hold the tooth together, especially when large fillings or decay have weakened it.

Crowns don’t just make your tooth stronger; they also make it look natural. The color and shape of the crown are matched to your surrounding teeth, so it blends in seamlessly. Dental crowns are a great way to protect your natural teeth and prevent more serious dental issues in the future. With good oral care, your crown can last 10–15 years or even longer.

At Alta Dental of Maine, we make sure every dental crown fits comfortably, looks natural, and helps you regain full use of your teeth.

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Common Reasons You May Need a Dental Crown in Freeport ME

A dental crown is often recommended when a tooth is too weak or damaged to be fixed with a regular filling. It can also be used for cosmetic improvements or to protect teeth after other treatments. Here are some common reasons you might need a crown:

• Cracked or broken teeth: Crowns cover the damaged tooth and prevent further damage.
• Large fillings: When a cavity is too big for a filling, a crown provides added support.
• After root canal treatment, the crown seals and strengthens the treated tooth.
• Worn-down teeth: Grinding or aging can wear down teeth, and crowns help restore their shape.
• Cosmetic reasons: Crowns can improve the look of discolored or misshapen teeth.

Getting a crown is about keeping your mouth healthy. Crowns protect your teeth from future damage and make it easier to eat and speak comfortably. At Alta Dental of Maine, our team carefully examines your teeth and recommends the best crown option for your specific needs, ensuring a natural, long-lasting result.

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Step-by-Step Process of Getting a Dental Crown

Getting a dental crown usually takes two visits, but with modern technology, some crowns can be done in one appointment. Here’s what to expect:

• Examination: The dentist examines your tooth with X-rays to ensure it’s healthy enough for a crown.
• Tooth preparation: A small layer of enamel is gently removed to make space for the crown.
• Impression: A digital scan or mold of your tooth is taken to design your custom crown.
• Temporary crown: You’ll wear a temporary crown while the permanent crown is being made.
• Final placement: The new crown is adjusted for fit and cemented securely in place.

After your crown is placed, it will feel just like a regular tooth. You can chew normally and clean it as you would your natural teeth. At Alta Dental of Maine, we use advanced tools to make the process smooth and comfortable from start to finish. Our team ensures your crown fits perfectly and helps protect your smile for years to come.

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Exploring the Different Types of Dental Crowns and Their Benefits

Not all dental crowns are the same. The type you choose depends on your tooth’s location, needs, and budget. Here are some common types and their benefits:

• Porcelain crowns: Best for front teeth because they look very natural.
• Metal crowns: Extremely strong and long-lasting, great for back teeth that do most of the chewing.
• Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns: Combine durability with a natural look.
• Zirconia crowns: Offer strength and beauty.
• Resin crowns: A budget-friendly option, though they may wear faster.

Each type has its own purpose, and your dentist will help you pick the one that works best for you. Factors like comfort, appearance, and durability all play a role in making the right choice. Dental crowns are an investment in your oral health. They protect your natural teeth and help restore normal function for many years when properly cared for.

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Advanced Technology Behind Modern Dental Crowns

Modern dentistry has made getting dental crowns faster, easier, and more precise. At Alta Dental of Maine, we use advanced tools and digital technology to create crowns that fit perfectly and look completely natural.

Digital scanners take exact images of your teeth, removing the need for messy molds. This allows our team to design your crown with incredible accuracy. We also use CAD/CAM (Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing) technology to create crowns right in our office, often in a single visit.

This technology also helps reduce human error, making your dental treatment more predictable and efficient. Whether you need one crown or several, these digital tools help us deliver reliable, high-quality results.

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Meet Dr. Joseph Wetherhold, DMD

Dr. Joseph Wetherhold, DMD obtained his undergraduate degree from the University of San Diego and graduated from dental school at Tufts University in Boston. At the beginning of his career, he served in the Peace Corps in Honduras, where he taught fish farming and supported community development initiatives.

He continuously seeks to expand his knowledge and has recently finished advanced training in implants in the Dominican Republic, where he provided essential dental care to those in need. Furthermore, he is affiliated with CDOCS, SERE, and the American Dental Association (ADA). Located in Freeport, Dr. Wetherhold offers expert dental services to patients in his community and its neighboring areas.

Restore your teeth with durable, custom-fit dental crowns from Alta Dental of Maine in Freeport ME. Call today to schedule your appointment!