Years of wear and tear on our teeth can weaken them. This is why most people will require dental restorations at some point in their lifetime. When it comes to protecting damaged teeth, a dental crown is a versatile treatment option. This type of restoration can extend the life of your tooth while restoring its shape and size.
The Basics on Dental Crowns
A crown is like a cap. It’s hollowed on the inside and custom made to fit over a tooth. Once placed, a dental crown will cover an entire tooth’s structure above the gum line.
Each dental crown is custom made so that it fits perfectly over a tooth. Dental crowns may be recommended to treat extensive tooth decay, cracks and chips, or if a tooth has developed significant wear from acid exposure or bruxism.
Patients have options when it comes to the appearance of their crowns. For those desiring an affordable and durable restoration, silver, gold, or zirconia are great options. If maintaining a natural aesthetic is preferred, patients can choose between porcelain or porcelain fused to metal. Porcelain makes for beautiful, lifelike restorations because it comes in an array of white shades and has a luster similar to biological tooth structure.
How Crowns Are Placed
Receiving a dental crown takes a couple office visits. After your initial visit, your dentist will need to prepare your tooth. This involves reducing its structure to make room for your restoration.
Molds will be taken to develop the precise measurements necessary to produce a restoration that fits perfectly over your tooth and between adjacent teeth. These specifications will be sent to a dental laboratory where the crown is fabricated from a patient’s chosen material(s). When the crown is ready, you will return to our office for the placement process.
Receiving a crown is not overly invasive or uncomfortable. Once the process is complete, you can enjoy a beautiful restoration that can protect your teeth for years to come.
We offer a number of restorative dentistry services. Call the office of Dr. David Kuban today to reserve an appointment.
