If you have a damaged, decayed, or weakened tooth that needs extra protection or restoration, a dental crown may be the perfect solution. A crown is a custom-made cap that covers your entire tooth, restoring its size, shape, strength, and appearance. At Kids & Adult Dental, we offer high-quality crowns that help preserve your natural tooth, protect it from further damage, and enhance the beauty of your smile.
What Are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are tooth-shaped caps that fit over a natural tooth, covering it completely to restore its function and appearance. Crowns are typically recommended for teeth that are severely decayed, broken, or weakened, often due to extensive fillings or root canal therapy. They can also be used to improve the aesthetics of a tooth that is discolored or misshapen.
Crowns are made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, and composite resin. The material choice depends on the location of the tooth, the level of strength required, and your aesthetic preferences.
Types
Types of Dental Crowns
At Kids & Adult Dental, we offer several types of dental crowns to suit your specific needs and preferences. The most common types of crowns include:
Porcelain Crowns
Porcelain crowns are an excellent choice for patients seeking a natural look. They closely mimic the appearance of natural teeth and are ideal for visible teeth, such as the front teeth. Porcelain crowns are durable, stain-resistant, and provide a highly aesthetic result.
Ceramic Crowns
Ceramic crowns are similar to porcelain crowns in appearance but may offer slightly greater durability. They are commonly used for front teeth due to their excellent aesthetic qualities.
Metal Crowns
Metal crowns are made from alloys, such as gold or other durable metals. While they are highly durable and resistant to wear, they are not as aesthetically pleasing as porcelain or ceramic crowns. Metal crowns are typically used for back teeth where strength is a priority over appearance.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
PFM crowns combine the durability of metal with the aesthetics of porcelain. The inner portion of the crown is made from metal, while the outer layer is covered in porcelain. These crowns are ideal for patients who want a balance of strength and aesthetics, and they are commonly used for back teeth.
Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia crowns are made from a highly durable, tooth-colored material that offers both strength and beauty. They are a great option for patients who need a crown that can withstand heavy biting pressure while still blending in with the natural teeth.
Process
The Dental Crown Process
The process of getting a dental crown typically involves two visits to our office. Here’s what to expect:
Step 1: Initial Consultation and Tooth Preparation
During your first visit, we will thoroughly examine your tooth to determine if a crown is the best option. We may take X-rays to assess the extent of the damage and ensure there is no underlying infection or issue. If a crown is appropriate, we will begin by preparing the tooth. This involves removing any decay or damaged portions and shaping the tooth to fit the crown.
If necessary, we may apply a local anesthetic to ensure your comfort during the procedure. In some cases, we may take impressions or digital scans of your tooth to create a custom crown that fits precisely.
Step 2: Temporary Crown
After preparing the tooth, we will place a temporary crown over it to protect it until your permanent crown is ready. The temporary crown is designed to fit comfortably and restore basic functionality.
Step 3: Custom Crown Creation
We will send your impressions or digital scans to a dental laboratory, where your custom crown will be created to fit your tooth perfectly. Depending on the type of crown you choose, this process may take a few days to a couple of weeks. During this time, your temporary crown will protect your tooth.
Step 4: Final Placement
Once your permanent crown is ready, you’ll return to our office for the final placement. We will remove the temporary crown and check the fit and appearance of the new crown. If everything looks good, we will bond the crown to your tooth using a strong dental adhesive. We will make any necessary adjustments to ensure a perfect fit and comfortable bite.
After the crown is in place, we will polish it to give it a smooth, natural appearance.
Benefits of Dental Crowns
- Restoration of Tooth Function: Crowns restore the normal function of a damaged tooth, allowing you to chew and bite without discomfort.
- Protection: They provide protection for weak or cracked teeth, preventing further damage and potentially avoiding the need for extraction.
- Enhanced Aesthetics: Crowns can be color-matched to your natural teeth, making them ideal for restoring the appearance of your smile.
- Durability: Crowns are designed to be long-lasting and durable, with some types lasting 10-15 years or longer with proper care.
- Versatility: Crowns can be used for a wide range of dental issues, from covering large fillings to restoring teeth after root canal therapy.
- Comfort: With advancements in dental technology, crowns are now more comfortable and precisely fitted than ever before.
Caring for Your Dental Crown
With proper care, your dental crown can last for many years. Here are some tips to help extend the lifespan of your crown:
- Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss regularly to maintain your crown and the surrounding teeth.
- Avoid Hard Foods: While crowns are durable, avoid biting down on very hard foods, such as ice or hard candy, which can cause damage.
- Wear a Mouthguard: If you grind your teeth, consider wearing a nightguard to prevent damage to your crown and natural teeth.
- Regular Check-ups: Visit Kids & Adult Dental for regular check-ups to ensure that your crown is in good condition and functioning properly.
Is a Dental Crown Right for You?
If you have a damaged or weakened tooth, a dental crown could be the perfect solution to restore both function and appearance. Dental crowns are suitable for patients who:
- Have a tooth with a large filling or significant decay
- Have undergone root canal therapy
- Want to enhance the appearance of a misshapen or discolored tooth
- Need protection for a fragile tooth that is at risk of breaking
During your consultation at Kids & Adult Dental, we will assess your specific needs and help you determine if a dental crown is the best option for restoring your smile.
Get the Protection and Aesthetic You Deserve
Dental crowns are an effective, long-lasting solution for protecting and restoring damaged teeth while enhancing your smile. At Kids & Adult Dental, we use advanced materials and techniques to create crowns that provide both strength and beauty, ensuring your smile looks and feels great.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn more about how dental crowns can restore your smile.
