Broken or decayed teeth can cause pain, difficulty chewing and speaking, and feelings of self-consciousness.
A dental crown can be placed over the tooth to restore form and function, allowing you to chew, speak, and smile with confidence.
So why should I consider a dental crown?
A dental crown is placed over the affected tooth after treatment for trauma or decay, protecting it from further damage and often preventing the need for extraction.
Dental crowns are made of strong materials that are designed to withstand normal biting forces. With proper care, they can last up to a decade or more.
Dental crowns are made from high-quality materials that can be matched to the shade of your surrounding teeth. They also mimic the light-reflecting properties of enamel.
Show me how dental crowns are placed...
Crowns are a tried and true treatment for repairing damage and decay...
What problems can a dental crown solve?
It is important to note that crowns require a certain amount of healthy dental tissue for support. For this reason, an extraction might be necessary if your tooth is too compromised to support a dental crown. If this is the case, your doctor can replace your tooth with a dental implant and custom crown.
Crowns can strengthen teeth that have been significantly damaged by tooth decay or trauma. They provide coverage when a tooth cannot be repaired with a filling, inlay, or onlay.
If decay has reached the inner portion of your tooth, your doctor may recommend root canal treatment. Following a root canal, your doctor will typically cover your tooth with a dental crown to protect the remaining tissue.
Dental crowns can conceal cosmetic imperfections such as intrinsic stains and disproportionately sized teeth. Although porcelain veneers and dental bonding also hide flaws, they may not provide enough coverage in some cases.
Single missing teeth can be replaced with implant-supported dental crowns. Unlike traditional dental bridges, implant-supported crowns do not require modification of your adjacent teeth. Implants also prevent jawbone recession following tooth loss.
Aren't fillings, inlays, and onlays cheaper?
In most cases, yes – however, they may not be the best solution for your needs. Fillings, inlays, or onlays can be used to replace a decayed or damaged portion of a tooth. While these solutions may be a suitable option for minor cavities or trauma, a dental crown is needed for more severe issues because it can provide much greater protection.
Because most crowns are considered medically necessary and not cosmetic, most insurance plans cover at least part of this cost.
Show me how dental crowns work...
What can I expect during the procedure?
If the practice has an in-office milling machine, such as CEREC, you can receive your personalized dental crown in a single appointment.
How should I take care of my crown after treatment?
Although crowns are made with high-quality materials, they are not indestructible. You will eventually need to replace the restoration, but there are a few things you can do to help your crown last, including:
Poorly manufactured crowns are also more likely to break early on, which is why it is important to choose a reputable dentist. Your dentist should also ensure that your crown fits properly in your smile. Crowns are not designed to bear the brunt of your bite. If your bite force is not evenly distributed across your dental arch, your crown can sustain irreparable damage.
Show me what the results can look like...
Modern dental crowns are virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth. After receiving a permanent crown, many patients find they are able to speak more clearly and chew more comfortably. If you received a dental crown to achieve a cosmetic upgrade, the results can provide improved self-confidence.
I think I may need a crown...
Dental crowns are available in a variety of materials that can be customized to provide a natural appearance while restoring your ability to speak clearly and chew properly.
Neglecting to treat a weakened tooth can result in many serious oral health issues requiring expensive and invasive treatment. Schedule an appointment today to determine whether a crown or another solution is the best way to meet your needs.
