Crowns

What is a crown?

A dental crown is also called a "cap." It's placed on top of a damaged tooth. It is sculpted to the shape of the original tooth and can enhance the tooth's appearance and stability. The crown fits over the tooth and is cemented into place so that the original tooth is completely encased.

Are dental crowns a good fit for me?

Dr. Creese may suggest a crown for many reasons. A crown can cover a dark or misshapen tooth or a dental implant.

A crown can do more than improve the appearance of a tooth. It can protect and hold together a weak tooth. Teeth with large fillings and little natural tooth remaining are especially susceptible to breaking, but a crown can prevent this from happening.

Whether you need a crown for cosmetic reasons or to strengthen weakened or broken teeth, a dental crown can protect teeth.

Are there different kinds of crowns?

There are a variety of dental crown materials to consider. Crowns can be made from:

• Stainless steel
• Gold or another alloy
• Porcelain fused to metal
• Resin
• Ceramic

The material used for your crown will depend on your situation and the crown's purpose. For example, stainless steel is the most common material for temporary crowns. It's common for dentists to use prefabricated stainless steel crowns to cap children's baby teeth.

Metal crowns are sturdy and able to withstand the force of biting and chewing, but due to their color, they're commonly used on teeth in the rear of the mouth.

Porcelain fused to metal crowns are closer in appearance to natural teeth than stainless steel crowns; however, they do have some disadvantages. For instance, the opposing teeth may endure more wear than they would with other types of crowns, and the metal portion of the crown may show as a dark line near the gums.

All-resin crowns are generally a less expensive option, but are also more prone to cracking, whereas all-ceramic crowns are the best option for people who have metal allergies.

What's involved with a dental crown procedure?

A dental crown procedure generally requires at least two visits to the dentist. During the first appointment, Dr. Creese will take X-rays to determine the health of the tooth that needs a crown.

Next, Dr. Creese will use a local anesthetic to numb the tooth and its surrounding tissue. The tooth will be filed down or built up so that the crown will fit properly and securely. After that, he will take an impression of your teeth. The impression will be sent to the lab and used to custom-make the crown. Dr. Creese will place a temporary crown over your tooth until the permanent crown is completed.

Getting a dental crown can be a simple, easy process. To discuss your crown options, contact Richard D. Creese, DDS, or make an appointment online.