Dental Crowns
A dental crown, also called a tooth cap, is a tooth-shaped restoration that your dentist places over a tooth to improve its shape, size, structure, and appearance. The crown is cemented into place and fully covers the visible part of the tooth at and above the gum line. A crown fits just like a natural tooth because it’s created from an impression, often digital. After your crown is in place, your tooth will be stronger and last longer. Dental Associates offers a variety of materials for your dental crown, and your dentist will discuss the best option for your individual case.
Your Dental Associates dentist may recommend a dental crown to...
- Replace a large filling that no longer has enough tooth structure to continue to fill the cavity
- Protect a weak tooth from further chipping, breaking or fracturing
- Restore a fractured or cracked tooth
- Cover a poorly shaped tooth or discolored tooth
- Attach a dental bridge
- Protect and restore a tooth that has had a root canal
- Cover a dental implant
A crown will make your damaged tooth stronger and more stable. Your Dental Associates dentist will also help you choose the best material for a crown for your individual case.
Types of Dental Crowns
Temporary dental crowns are acrylic or metal alloy and are made right in your dentist’s office. It will cover the tooth while your permanent crown is being created in a dental lab.
Stainless steel dental crowns are prefabricated crowns that are used on permanent and baby teeth. Stainless steel crowns are generally used for children's teeth because they are cost-effective and are completed in one visit.
Metal dental crowns can be made from cast gold alloys or cast silver palladium alloys. With a metal crown, less tooth structure needs to be removed before installation and the wear on opposing teeth is minimal. Metal crowns withstand biting and chewing well and rarely chip or break.
Porcelain-fused-to-metal dental crowns contain an inner metal casting with porcelain baked over it. They look natural and blend in with surrounding teeth, but occasionally may chip and show the underlying metal. They may wear the natural enamel of the opposing teeth over time.
All ceramic or all porcelain dental crowns are the most aesthetic option since they most closely resemble a tooth’s natural shade. Like all porcelain dental options, they can wear the opposing teeth over time.
Request a Consultation
If you’re interested in improving your smile with a dental crown or bridge, click on the button below to schedule a consultation at Dental Associates.
