What Are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns, sometimes called caps, are a sheath that can completely cover the part of the tooth above the gum line. They give a damaged tooth an entirely new exterior, protecting and supporting the vital tooth structure within. We use this type of crown to:
- Protect a cracked tooth
- Support a tooth weakened by a large filling
- Protect a tooth treated with root canal therapy
- Improve the appearance or shape of a tooth
- Support a dental bridge
In addition, a variation on a dental crown is used to top a dental implant that is replacing a single lost tooth.
In the past, crowns were made of metal, or porcelain fused to metal (PFM). Modern dental materials allow us to use crowns made of advanced ceramic on any tooth, even the back teeth that must deal with high bite forces. But metal and PFM crowns remain an alternative.
The Dental Crowns Procedure
First, Dr. Wolfe will evaluate your situation to determine whether a dental crown is the right restorative dentistry procedure for you. Then he prepares the tooth or teeth to receive the crown or crowns. This means removing the damaged part of the tooth or teeth and shaping the remainder to provide a sturdy platform for the crown.
Once prepared, we will take impressions of your teeth. You don’t have to bite into a tray, we just wave a wand over your teeth to create 3D digital impressions. We send these impressions to a dental lab, where they craft your crown. Meanwhile, you will wear a temporary crown. These look attractive but aren’t as strong as your permanent restoration.
When your permanent restoration is ready, we will invite you back to the office. We will check it for fit and color match. If it’s right, we’ll bond it in place.
Then you can enjoy your beautifully restored smile.
Restore Your Smile with a Crown in Rochester Hills
If you have a badly damaged tooth or even a missing tooth, a dental crown might be able to restore your smile. You will enjoy a beautiful smile and the full function of biting and chewing with your crown.
