What Is A Dental Crown?
Dental crowns are used to help protect a weak tooth from breaking down further. Crowns also restore damaged or broken teeth. Typically, after a root canal procedure crowns are placed to help seal out any infection. The crown is similar to a cap and fits snug over the tooth. Crowns can change the shape, size, and color of a tooth and look natural in the mouth. Crowns are durable, and can give patients a beautiful natural looking smile.
Who Can Benefit From A Crown?
Patients that have damaged or broken teeth can benefit from a crown. The crown can help to cover the damaged tooth and seal out any infection, preventing bacteria from entering. Crowns help to prevent future damage to the already compromised tooth. Patients with large areas of decay, or teeth that are misshapen or discolored may be in need of a crown. During our consultation process, our team will evaluate the areas of concern, and determine treatment as well as what type of crown will work best.
What Types Of Crowns Are Available?
Ceramic Crowns
Ceramic crowns are typically used to restore the front teeth, and are made out of a porcelain material. Ceramic crowns are durable, and blend in nicely with your natural teeth.
Porcelain Crowns
Porcelain crowns are made out of porcelain fused to metal. This type of crown is stronger compared to the other types of crowns available. This is due to the metal structure beneath the crown. Porcelain crowns also blend in well with your natural teeth.
Same Day CEREC (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) Crowns:
CEREC crowns can be completed in one appointment and are a popular choice for patients today. CEREC crowns are made out of a solid block of ceramic or resin, and can be shaped and sized to match your existing teeth. Using computer aided technology, CEREC crowns are made conveniently in our office using our on-site milling unit. CEREC crowns are highly durable, and are built to last between 10-15 years.
How Does The Crown Process Work?
During a crown procedure our team uses local anesthetic to keep patients relaxed and comfortable. The tooth is filed down to ensure the crown fits perfectly. Impressions are taken of your teeth and those are sent off to a lab where the custom crown is made. We use temporary crowns if necessary, while patients wait for the permanent crown to be installed.
Once the permanent crown is ready, we have patients return to our office and affix the crown to the tooth. Crowns do require multiple appointments in our office unless you have opted for the same day CEREC crowns. CEREC crowns can be completed in just one visit to our office. We advise patients to wait at least one hour to eat after their crown is installed. Patients should avoid any hard or sticky foods, and follow good oral hygiene at home to keep the crown looking and feeling healthy.
If you think you may be in need of a crown, or would like more information on the crown process, contact us to schedule your appointment.