Crowns

A dental crown (or cap) is a covering that encases the entire tooth's surface, restoring it to its original shape and size.

A crown protects and strengthens tooth structure that cannot be restored with fillings or other types of restorations. A crown may become necessary or desired, for one or more of the following reasons:

  • Broken/fractured teeth
  • Cosmetic enhancement
  • Decayed teeth
  • Fractured fillings
  • Large fillings
  • Root canal

Dental crowns are durable and strong. They can be expected to last many years, but as with most dental restorations, a crown may eventually need replacement (especially when maltreatment of a crown has taken place). Crowns are made and customized in size, shape, and color to match your natural teeth. This is done to restore full functionality to your teeth and to provide optimal cosmetic results for your smile.

Procedure

The procedure will usually take place over the course of two appointments. The first appointment will consist of taking several highly accurate molds (impressions). These molds will be used to help create both your finalized porcelain crown and a temporary crown. Once the molds have been taken, your porcelain crown will be custom-created in a dental laboratory over the course of approximately three weeks. During this time, you will wear a temporary crown. In preparation for the temporary crown, the dentist will numb your tooth, and clean any decay. Your tooth will be shaped to properly fit the crown.

At your second appointment, the temporary crown will be removed. The doctor will prepare your tooth for the final crown by carefully cleaning your tooth again. The new crown will be carefully placed to ensure that full functionality will be restored to your mouth.

Instructions will be given from your dentist regarding your new crown. You will be encouraged to have regular dental visits to ensure your new crown remains in good shape.

Call 918.456.4441 for lasting dental health.