Dental Crowns

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Crowns Q & A

What is a crown?

A crown is a cover for a damaged tooth. It’s crafted to look like the original tooth and can improve its appearance and strength. The crown is placed on top of the original tooth, completely covering the area of the tooth that can be seen above the gum line. It’s sealed in place with a special cement.

Why would I need a crown?

There are a variety of reasons Dr. Hahn may suggest a crown. A crown can cover a dark or misshapen tooth or a dental implant.

In addition to making a tooth more aesthetically appealing, a crown can serve a practical purpose by strengthening a natural tooth. Crowns can strengthen teeth that have been weakened by excessively large fillings or that are in danger of breaking.

Many patients are great candidates for dental crowns, for both cosmetic and restorative reasons. Whether you need a crown to fix the appearance of a tooth or strengthen a weak tooth, a dental crown can protect teeth for years to come.

Which kind of crown is right for my teeth?

Crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including:

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

The material used depends on a range of factors. For instance, stainless steel is typically the go-to material for temporary crowns. Stainless steel crowns are incredibly durable. Prefabricated stainless steel crowns are commonly used for children who need crowns on baby teeth.

Metal crowns are durable and able to withstand the force of biting and chewing, but due to their color, they’re commonly used on teeth in the rear of the mouth.

Porcelain fused to metal crowns are closer in appearance to natural teeth than stainless steel crowns; however, they do have some disadvantages. For example, the metal portion of the crown might be visible as a dark line close to the gums, and the opposing teeth might endure more wear than with other types of crowns.

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 generally requires at least two visits to the dentist. During the first appointment, your Family Dental Choice professional will take digital X-rays to ascertain the condition of the tooth that’s getting a crown.

Next, Dr. Hahn will use a local anesthetic to numb the tooth and its surrounding tissue. The tooth will be filed down or built up so that the crown will fit properly and securely. After, he will make an impression of your teeth, which a lab will use to manufacture the crown. Dr. Hahn will fabricate a temporary crown to safeguard your tooth until the permanent crown is completed and in place.

Would you like to learn more about dental crowns? Think you might need a crown replaced? Contact the experienced professionals at Family Dental Choice or make an appointment online.