Crowns
As we get a little older, our teeth begin to change and are prone to cracking. This occurs because normal use of our teeth causes wear of the enamel and stress lines will form which eventually become cracks. If you had cavities in the past and had fillings placed, the tooth is weaker and will eventually begin to crack and either a new larger filling or a crown will need to be placed to prevent a full fracture of your tooth. If you have had a root canal on a tooth, a crown is needed to rebuild and protect the tooth from fracture. The reasons for this type of restoration are durability, cosmetic appearance, and overall support of the chewing function. If cared for correctly, crowns can last a lifetime. Decay (cavities) can form at the margin (gum line) of a crown if your oral hygiene is not sufficient. Regular brushing and flossing is still needed.
Types of Crowns
If we decide that you are in need of a full crown, there are a few different options for the repair of your tooth. These options include a full porcelain crown, a porcelain fused to metal or gold crown, or a full gold crown. We will make the determination as to which of these options is the most appropriate for your situation, allowing you to make an informed decision on which material you chose. You can be comfortable in knowing that your new tooth will be virtually unnoticeable and will flawlessly compliment the rest of your smile.
Procedure - Crowns usually take 2 visits.
1. The tooth that needs a crown will be precisely reshaped (drilled) and the old filling and any decay will be removed and a new stronger filling (core) will be placed. An impression (exact mould) of the tooth will be taken and a temporary crown will be cemented. Our temporary restorations will resemble your natural teeth so that you can continue with your daily life without worrying about a missing or incompatible tooth. A shade (color) match will be taken and confirmed with you. This impression will be sent to our lab where your new restoration will be crafted.
2. During your second visit to the office, we will try in your new crown and ensure that the fit is exact and the esthetics are correct. We will adjust the crown to be comfortable to your bite. The final step in the process is to cement the crown permanently, leaving you with a beautifully restored smile. You may experience a slight sensitivity to cold for a short period of time.
Types of Crowns
If we decide that you are in need of a full crown, there are a few different options for the repair of your tooth. These options include a full porcelain crown, a porcelain fused to metal or gold crown, or a full gold crown. We will make the determination as to which of these options is the most appropriate for your situation, allowing you to make an informed decision on which material you chose. You can be comfortable in knowing that your new tooth will be virtually unnoticeable and will flawlessly compliment the rest of your smile.
Procedure - Crowns usually take 2 visits.
1. The tooth that needs a crown will be precisely reshaped (drilled) and the old filling and any decay will be removed and a new stronger filling (core) will be placed. An impression (exact mould) of the tooth will be taken and a temporary crown will be cemented. Our temporary restorations will resemble your natural teeth so that you can continue with your daily life without worrying about a missing or incompatible tooth. A shade (color) match will be taken and confirmed with you. This impression will be sent to our lab where your new restoration will be crafted.
2. During your second visit to the office, we will try in your new crown and ensure that the fit is exact and the esthetics are correct. We will adjust the crown to be comfortable to your bite. The final step in the process is to cement the crown permanently, leaving you with a beautifully restored smile. You may experience a slight sensitivity to cold for a short period of time.