Crowns

Teeth with defective restorations, cracks, broken structure or unaesthetic appearance can be restored with dental crowns. Teeth with large alloys or metal fillings sometimes need stronger material or full coverage because overtime chewing and biting forces wear teeth and can lead to fracture of the tooth structure. Teeth with large white fillings also may need full coverage due to recurrent dental decay or defective margins. Dental crowns can enhance the appearance of teeth with defective tooth structure, such internal dental stains, enamel defects, asymmetrical smile or teeth with cracks. Dental crowns protect and restore the structure, function and enhance cosmetic appearance. Two appointments are usually needed to make a crown. In the first appointment, the tooth structure is prepared and shaped so the crown has room to fit, an impression is taken of the modified tooth, a provisional or temporary crown is placed to keep the tooth functioning. The impression is used to make a model of the shaped tooth and to fabricate a crown. Dental crowns can be metal, all ceramic or a combination of both. At the second appointment the provisional or temporary crown is removed and the final crown is fitted to restore the tooth to a healthy and functional state. Every case varies, the dental crown material dictates how the tooth structure is shape and the type of tooth, location of the tooth in the mouth and or extend of tooth damage determines what type of crown will be best. Understanding and appreciation for dental function, structure and aesthetics is paramount to maintain, protect and restore our patients dental smiles. The most conservative and predictable approach is used to best serve our patients and help them maintain their healthy smiles.