Dental Crowns Restore Structurally Compromised Teeth
A dental filling can adequately restore a tooth with mild to moderate decay, but for larger cavities, fractures, or failed fillings, a dental crown may be required. A tooth has two main parts: a root (below the gum line) and a crown (the visible portion). A dental crown covers a tooth’s natural crown to restore structural integrity, as well as shape and appearance. In some cases, a crown is the preferred treatment to hide permanent tooth stains. Our dentists, Dr. David Ijams and Dr. Clarissa Turner, use only the highest quality materials to ensure your restoration is durable and indistinguishable from your natural teeth. To learn more about the benefits and applications of dental crowns, schedule a consultation at Cordova Dental today.
Types of Dental Crowns
While dental fillings are direct restorations, created and placed by a dentist in a single office visit, crowns are indirect, lab-made restorations. Dental crowns have been fabricated from metal for many years. Today, however, we have cosmetic materials that mimic the white color of natural tooth enamel. Porcelain, also called ceramic, is a common material for anterior crowns, or those that are placed on front teeth. For molars that must withstand the pressure of chewing, zirconia makes a durable, yet esthetic, restoration. Crowns may also be made from porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM), so that their foundation is solid, but their appearance mimics natural tooth enamel. In some cases, we may recommend a crown made entirely of metal, for the strongest, longest-lasting restorative solution.
How Do Crowns Work?
Crowns typically take two appointments to complete. To place a dental crown, the dentist will first prepare your tooth by reshaping it to fit beneath the restoration. We will then take an impression so that the new crown will fit perfectly between surrounding teeth and with opposing teeth. You will be provided with a temporary crown while our lab crafts your restoration. At your second visit, the dentist will replace your temporary with the final dental crown, check your bite, and make any necessary adjustments. A crown restores shape, structural integrity, appearance, and comfortable function to compromised teeth. Crowns are also used to anchor traditional dental bridges, to protect a tooth following root canal therapy, and to top a dental implant.
Why Choose Crowns?
All of our dental crowns are made in a lab, according to the dentist’s instructions. Our dentists consider the location of the damaged tooth, the patient’s cosmetic preferences, and the tooth’s health when determining whether a crown is advisable. Crowns can be cleaned just like your natural teeth. With proper care, they can last for many years. They require no special aftercare other than brushing and flossing, and regular cleanings at our office.
Contact Our Practice
If you are suffering from a toothache or other indication that you may be a good candidate for a crown, reach out to us to schedule your appointment at Cordova Dental. Dr. Ijams or Dr. Turner can assess your situation and let you know exactly which treatment options to consider.
