Dental Crowns

Crowns

Crowns: Revolutionizing Dental Restorations

What is a Dental Crown? A dental crown is a cap that is placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns can be made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, or a combination of materials.

When are Dental Crowns Needed? Dental crowns are recommended in the following situations:

  • To protect a weak tooth from further damage.
  • To restore a broken or severely worn-down tooth.
  • To cover and support a tooth with a large filling.
  • To anchor and complete a dental bridge.
  • To cover a dental implant.
  • To improve the appearance of misshapen or discolored teeth.

The Crown Placement Process:

  1. Consultation: Your dentist will assess your oral health and discuss the need for a dental crown.
  2. Preparation: The tooth is prepared by removing a portion of the enamel to make room for the crown.
  3. Impressions: Traditional impressions or digital scans may be taken to create a mold for the crown.
  4. Temporary Crown (if needed): In some cases, a temporary crown may be placed while the permanent crown is being fabricated.
  5. Crown Placement: Once the crown is ready, it is securely bonded to the prepared tooth.

If you opt for dental crowns, our team at Dr. Matt Miller is dedicated to providing you with the highest standard of care and restorative solutions. If you have any questions or would like to explore your options for dental crowns, contact us to schedule a consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Traditional dental crowns are caps placed over damaged or weakened teeth to restore their shape, size, strength, and appearance. You might need a traditional crown to protect a weak tooth, restore a broken tooth, cover a tooth with a large filling, anchor a dental bridge, cover a dental implant, or improve the appearance of misshapen or discolored teeth.

The process involves a consultation where your dentist assesses your oral health and discusses the need for a crown. During the preparation stage, a portion of the enamel is removed to make room for the crown. Impressions, either traditional or digital, are taken to create a mold for the crown. In some cases, a temporary crown may be placed. Once the permanent crown is ready, it is securely bonded to the prepared tooth.

The process for a traditional dental crown usually takes two or more appointments. The first appointment involves tooth preparation and impression-taking, while the second appointment is for the placement of the final crown. This can span over a couple of weeks. In contrast, CEREC crowns are designed and placed in a single appointment, saving time.

Traditional crowns can be crafted from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, or a combination of these. The choice of material depends on factors such as the location of the tooth, the function it serves, and aesthetic considerations. Your dentist will discuss the most suitable option for your specific needs.

The process of getting dental crowns is not inherently painful. Local anesthesia is administered during the tooth preparation phase to ensure you are comfortable. Some patients may experience mild discomfort after the procedure, but this is typically temporary and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

With proper care and maintenance, traditional crowns can last for many years. Maintaining good oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, is crucial for their longevity. It’s also advisable to avoid excessive force on the crowned tooth, such as grinding or biting on hard objects, to ensure the durability of the crown. Regular dental visits will allow your dentist to monitor the condition of the crown and address any issues promptly.