At Tooth Matters, we offer high-quality dental crowns to restore the function, strength, and appearance of damaged or weakened teeth. Dental crowns are a versatile solution that can address a range of dental concerns, helping you preserve your natural teeth and improve your smile.

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown, commonly referred to as a “cap,” is a custom-made restoration that fits over a tooth, covering it entirely. Crowns are typically used when a tooth is too damaged to be restored with a filling but still has enough structure to avoid extraction. Once placed, the crown protects the tooth from further damage and restoring its normal function.

When Is a Crown Recommended?

Dental crowns may be recommended in several situations, including:

• Extensive Tooth Decay: If a tooth has been severely damaged by decay, a crown may be necessary to restore its structure and protect it from further deterioration.
• Broken or Fractured Teeth: Teeth that are cracked or fractured due to trauma or biting on hard substances can be reinforced with crowns.
• Worn or Chipped Teeth: Teeth that have been worn down by grinding (bruxism) or have become chipped can be restored to their original shape and size with a crown.
• Root Canal Therapy: After root canal treatment, a crown is often placed to protect the treated tooth, as it becomes more fragile without the natural pulp inside.
• Cosmetic Enhancement: Crowns can be used to improve the appearance of discolored, misshapen, or mal-positioned teeth, giving you a more even and aesthetically pleasing smile.
• Support for Dental Bridges: Crowns are often used to anchor dental bridges, filling the space left by missing teeth and ensuring stability and function.

Types of Dental Crowns

At Tooth Matters, we offer several types of crowns to suit your specific needs:

• Porcelain Crowns: Ideal for restoring front teeth, porcelain crowns are designed to match the natural color of your teeth, providing a seamless, aesthetic solution.
• Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns: These crowns combine the strength of metal with the natural look of porcelain, offering a durable and cosmetically appealing option for both front and back teeth.
• Metal Crowns (Gold or Silver): Highly durable and resistant to wear, metal crowns are often recommended for molars where strength is a priority.
• Zirconia Crowns: Zirconia crowns are incredibly strong and highly aesthetic, making them an excellent choice for both front and back teeth. They are known for their longevity and natural appearance.

The Crown Procedure

1. Initial Consultation: During your first visit, the dentist will assess your tooth and determine if a crown is necessary. X-rays or scans may be taken to evaluate the tooth’s structure and surrounding bone.
2. Tooth Preparation: The tooth is reshaped to accommodate the crown. This involves removing some of the tooth’s outer structure to ensure a proper fit for the crown.
3. Impressions or intral-oral scan, and Temporary Crown: Once the tooth is prepared, an impression or a scan of the tooth is taken to create a custom-fit crown. A temporary crown is placed over the tooth to protect it while the permanent crown is being made.
4. Crown Placement: On your second visit, the temporary crown is removed, and the permanent crown is fitted. The dentist will ensure the crown fits perfectly and securely bonds it to the tooth.

How Long Does the Procedure Take?

Typically, the dental crown process requires two appointments. The first visit is for tooth preparation and impressions, and the second visit is for the fitting and placement of the crown. Each appointment typically takes about 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the complexity of the case.

Benefits of Dental Crowns

• Restores Function: A dental crown restores the tooth’s ability to function normally, allowing you to chew, bite, and speak with ease.
• Protects Weakened Teeth: Crowns provide a protective barrier, preventing further damage to fragile or decayed teeth.
• Long-lasting: With proper care, crowns can last many years, making them a durable, cost-effective solution for tooth restoration.
• Improves Aesthetics: Crowns can enhance the appearance of your smile by addressing discoloration, misshapen teeth, or gaps.

Caring for Your Dental Crown

Maintaining your dental crown is simple and involves the same care as your natural teeth:

• Brush and floss regularly to prevent plaque buildup around the crown.
• Avoid chewing hard foods or objects (such as ice or pens) that could damage the crown.
• Visit your dentist for regular check-ups to ensure the crown remains in good condition.