Crowns

As we get a little older, our teeth begin to change and become more prone to decay. There are many possible reasons for these changes. Included are: bruxism (teeth grinding), general decay, cracked fillings and root canals. If one of your teeth is beyond repair with a conventional filling, we may recommend a crown. A crown will restore a tooth’s durability, cosmetic appearance, and chewing function.

Types of Crowns

If we decide that you need a crown, there are a few different options. They include creating a full porcelain crown, a porcelain fused to metal crown, or a full gold crown. We’ll determine which of these options is the most appropriate for your situation. You can be comfortable knowing that your new crown will be virtually unnoticeable and will flawlessly complement the rest of your smile.

Procedure

When we have decided to proceed with a full crown restoration, we may set aside another appointment or two for the entire process. While many crowns can be made during your first visit, sometimes another visit or two may be needed to ensure proper fit.

The procedure begins with the removal of all decay in the tooth. Once we have removed the decay, we will take an impression of the tooth. Using our CEREC machine, we may be able to create your new crown while you wait! Or, if necessary, the impression will be sent to our lab where your new restoration will be crafted. If we need the lab’s help, we may provide you with a temporary restoration. Our temporary restoration will closely resemble your natural teeth so you can continue your daily life without worrying about a missing or incompatible tooth.

When the crown is ready, we will fit it comfortably into your mouth. We’ll make every effort to ensure that the new tooth feels exactly like one of your natural teeth. The final step in the process is to cement the crown into place, leaving you with a beautifully restored smile!

To watch a short video about crowns, click the play button.