Crowns

What is a dental crown?

A crown is a piece of metal, plastic, ceramic, or porcelain that covers a damaged tooth. It's designed in the shape of the original tooth and can strengthen the tooth and restore its appearance. The crown acts as a protective covering, as it's fitted over the original tooth so that the visible portion of the tooth is encased. It's sealed in place with dental cement.

Why would I need a crown?

The experienced dentists at Tenth Street Family Dental may suggest a crown for many reasons. A crown can cover a dental implant or a discolored or oddly-shaped tooth.

In addition to making a natural tooth look better, a crown can provide support to a tooth. Crowns can strengthen teeth that are at risk of breaking or that have weakened as a result of large fillings.

Whether you need a crown for cosmetic reasons or to strengthen weakened or broken teeth, a dental crown can protect teeth.

Are there different kinds of crowns?

Dental crowns can be constructed from many materials, including:

• Stainless steel
• Gold or another alloy
• Porcelain fused to metal
• Resin
• Ceramic

The choice of material depends on multiple factors. For example, stainless steel is usually the preferred material for temporary crowns. Stainless steel crowns are often prefabricated and are a frequent choice for children who need crowns on baby teeth.

Metal crowns are durable and able to withstand the force of chewing and eating, but because of their noticeable color, they’re usually reserved for use in the back of the mouth.

Porcelain fused to metal crowns are more aesthetically pleasing than stainless steel crowns, but they aren't perfect. For example, the metal portion of the crown might show as a dark line close to the gums. The opposing teeth may also experience more wear than they would with another type of crown.

All-resin crowns are more affordable, which makes them an appealing choice for many patients, but they're also more prone to fractures. All-ceramic crowns are the best choice for men and women with metal allergies.

What are the steps in a dental crown procedure?

A dental crown procedure typically involves two visits to the dentist, at a minimum. The first visit will include X-rays so that your Tenth Street Family Dental dental professional can determine the health of the tooth that needs a crown.

Next, the dentist will administer anesthesia to numb the tooth and surrounding tissues. The tooth is built up or filed down so that the crown will fit snugly. After the tooth is prepared, the dentist will take an impression of your teeth. The impression will go to the dental lab and be used to create a custom crown. Your dentist will create a temporary crown to protect your tooth until the permanent crown can be placed.

To learn more about dental crowns, call Tenth Street Family Dental or make an appointment online.