Having a healthy smile builds confidence
What are crowns?
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that restores a decayed, broken, weak or worn-down tooth. Crowns are also used to cover dental implants and root canal-treated teeth. Made from a variety of materials, including metal, resin, and porcelain.
What is the procedure for getting crowns?
Under normal circumstances, dental crown placement usually requires two appointments. However, we utilize an E4D in-office mill to reduce that to one visit! Just like a typical dental crown appointment, the dentist will perform any necessary fillings or root canals before preparing your tooth. To prepare your tooth, they will file it down so the crown can fit over it.
The doctor then uses a specialized camera to create a 3D model that is reviewed on a computer to make sure it is accurate. Then an appropriate color is selected to match the rest of your teeth. The information is then sent to the in-office E4D mill which takes 10-20 minutes to create the crown. Once complete, the permanent crown is seated and cemented in place and adjusted to make a perfect fit with your bite.
When are Crowns used?
Crowns are used if the original tooth is cracked, chipped, or broken. Other applications also include when the tooth requires a filling that's too large for the tooth to support; if it has too much decay, is too worn or if it's extremely discolored or misshapen.
A tooth is also crowned to cover a dental implant or hold a bridge in place. Once the crown has been placed, it immediately provides support for damaged teeth. The extra support helps to preserve the functionality of the teeth themselves. It also prevents further damage from occurring or from forcing the mouth to adapt to a damaged tooth, which can lead to misalignments or a bite that is out of alignment.
Crowns can occasionally be confused with veneers, but they serve different purposes. Veneers are typically applied to relatively small areas and serve a more cosmetic function.
Crown Care Best Practices
One of the biggest benefits of crowns is their durability. With proper care, your new crown can last for many years. Whether you have one or several crowns, following these simple tips can help ensure your crowns provide you with years of beautiful smiles. Follow your dentist’s recommendations, avoid sticky or hard foods, brush, and floss, and see your dentist regularly. If you grind or clench your teeth, the dentist may recommend a night guard.