Crowns
If you’ve suffered from cracked, broken, or otherwise damaged teeth as a result of either decay or trauma, you might be a candidate for dental crowns. These devices have a number of uses, all of which are helpful in restoring the look and feel of your natural teeth. Watsonville Dental Wellness Center brings our industry leading expertise in dental health to the craft of dental crowns. Let us restore your smile!
What Are Dental Crowns?
A crown (or cap) is a covering that encases the entire tooth surface restoring it to its original shape and size. A crown protects and strengthens tooth structure that cannot be restored with fillings or other types of restorations.
Types of Dental Crowns
Although there are several types of crowns, porcelain (tooth colored crown) are the most popular. They are highly durable and will last many years, but like most dental restorations, they may eventually need to be replaced. Other commonly used crowns include:
Porcelain-fused to metal
This crown forms a stronger bond than just using porcelain thanks to the support of the metal structure. The metal fusing also makes these more durable.
Gold alloys
A mix of gold, copper, and other metals are used to make these crowns. The combination of these materials makes them durable, resistant to fracture, and do not wear away at the tooth. These are also among the most expensive types of crowns.
Base metal alloys
These crowns are made out of less expensive metals that are also resistant to corrosion. Their affordability and durability make this type of crowns the preferred choice among many patients.
Do You Need Dental Crowns?
Your dentist might recommend dental crowns if you have suffered any of the following conditions:
- Broken or fractured teeth
- Cosmetic enhancement
- Decayed teeth
- Fractured fillings
- Large fillings
- Tooth has a root canal
Dental Crown Procedure
A crown procedure usually requires two appointments. The first step is a dental impression. A temporary crown is then placed to protect the tooth while the impression is sent to an offsite laboratory to create the final restoration. In some cases, same-day crowns are possible, so be sure to inquire.
Your first appointment will include taking several highly accurate molds (or impressions) that will be used to create your custom crown. A mold will also be used to create a temporary crown which will stay on your tooth for approximately two weeks until your new crown is fabricated by a dental laboratory.
While the tooth is numb, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping the surface to properly fit the crown. Once these details are accomplished, your temporary crown will be placed with temporary cement and your bite will be checked to ensure you are biting properly.
At your second appointment your temporary crown will be removed, the tooth will be cleaned, and your new crown will be carefully placed to ensure the spacing and bite are accurate. You will be given care instructions and encouraged to have regular dental visits to check your new crown.
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Are Your Ready to Restore Your Teeth?
Don’t let damaged teeth keep you from looking and feeling great! If you are ready to repair your smile, come to the experts at Watsonville Dental Wellness Center.
