Dental Crowns

Dental Crowns

A dental crown is a cap-like dental appliance that fits over a tooth. It looks exactly like a real tooth as it is made up of tooth colored ceramic material. Crowns are used to restore teeth that are badly damaged and require an aesthetic makeover.

Are you an ideal candidate for crowns?

Crowns can be used to treat a variety of dental issues. Patients with the following conditions would be ideal candidates for crowns.

• Misshapen teeth:Misshapen teeth are those which are naturally out of shape. Getting a crown for such a tooth would help to bring it to a proper shape.
• Teeth with large fillings: Sometimes, cavities can become so severe that a large filling or an inlay would be used to fill it. This may cause the tooth to weaken and crumble, which can be prevented by fitting it with a crown.
• Missing teeth:A missing tooth can be replaced by a dental bridge. But, the bridge will be held in place with the help of two crowns on either side which act as anchors. Also, when a patients is getting a dental implant, a crown will be used to replace the missing tooth.
• Worn out or damaged teeth: Teeth tends to wear out over time for certain patients with bruxism. Also, when patients suffer an external trauma to the mouth, the teeth may undergo chipping or cracks. A crown can be used to restore such teeth.
• Discolored teeth: Severely discolored teeth which can’t be treated using whitening techniques may require a crown to restore the aesthetics.
• Root canal infection: A root canal therapy is used to treat a badly infected tooth due to cavities or periodontitis. After the treatment, the tooth is usually vulnerable and could easily crumble under excessive forces. In such cases, a crown may be used to hold the tooth intact and prevent its failure.

What is the procedure for getting a crown?

Getting a crown would require a few visits to the dentist’s office. Initially, your dentist would examine your teeth and check for any signs of infection, cavities, injuries, and underlying issues. Next, x-rays of your mouth may have to be taken to check for any cracks, bone deterioration, wear of the teeth, etc. and to determine the exact positioning of the crown.

Next, the tooth receiving the crown would have to be prepared before a mold is taken. For this, the teeth are thoroughly cleaned and the tooth is buffed gently to remove a thin layer of the enamel. This creates a spacing for the crown to be bonded on to the tooth. A highly precise mold is taken by the dentist and sent to a laboratory for manufacturing the crown, where dental grade ceramic will be used for this purpose.

Until the permanent crown is fabricated, which may take a few days’ time, a temporary crown may be recommended by the dentist. It will be fitted in place with the help of mild adhesives and removed once the permanent crown is available. The permanent crown will firmly be bonded on to the surface of the tooth with the help of adhesives or dental cement. The dentist checks for perfect fit and comfort and finally polishes it to provide the best aesthetics.

Why should you choose crowns?

• They are strong and long-lasting. 
• They restore the functionality of the damaged tooth.
• They look exactly like natural teeth.
• They preserve the natural tooth and prevent it from being extracted.

Dr. Roland Elazegui has treated several patients with damaged and misshapen teeth and helped them regain their lost smile. Visit us for the best solution to all your dental issues.