Dental Crowns
A dental crown is a tooth shaped “cap” that is placed over a tooth to cover/protect the tooth and restore its shape and size for optimal esthetics and function.
Key Benefits of Dental Crowns
- Offers support/strength to compromised or broken teeth
- Looks completely natural
- Fixes functional chewing problems
- Improves esthetics
What are the capabilities of crowns?
Crowns can be a very reliable solution for dental problems caused by trauma, decay, or occlusal disease. Materials used in these repairs is usually either high-grade porcelain, porcelain bonded to zirconia or a cast metal.
Many people have unexplained chewing discomfort from large fillings on back teeth, which is usually due to hairline cracks in the chewing part of the tooth. Placing crowns on these teeth may relieve the pain and allows a return of full dental function for these teeth. In front teeth, older fillings can both weaken the teeth and cause esthetic issues due to staining or chipping. Porcelain crowns may be suitable in cases where porcelain veneers are not. In teeth with root canal fillings, crowns may be recommended to prevent breakage.
How long does it take to fit a dental crown?
Preparing a tooth for a crown requires at least two visit to our office. Initially, we will examine the tooth and surrounding gum tissue/bone support, remove decay, shape the tooth, take an impression and fit the prepared tooth with a temporary crown made of plastic.
On the subsequent visit, we will remove the temporary crown and then fit and adjust the final crown. Finally, we will cement the crown into place and you have a new, beautiful looking tooth.
How should I care for my temporary crown?
- avoid sticky/chewy foods (i.e. caramels, taffy), which have the tendency to grab and pull off the temporary crown.
- avoid chewing very hard foods (i.e. ice, hard taco shells, croutons, peanut brittle), which could dislodge or break the temporary crown.
- slide floss out the side rather than lifting it up when cleaning your teeth; lifting it up as you normally would do may pull off the temporary crown.
How do I maintain my new crown?
Although a crowned tooth does not require any special care, it is important to remember that the underlying tooth is still susceptible to dental decay and periodontal disease. Therefore, it is imperitive to continue good oral hygiene practices which include brushing at least twice a day, flossing once a day and the use of an antispectic mouthrinse. Dr. Hardy and his staff will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding the care and mainenance of your new crown.