Crowns Specialist

What is a dental crown?

A crown is a tooth-shaped "cap" that's used to cover a damaged or weak tooth. It's designed in the shape of the original tooth and can enhance its strength and appearance. The crown fits over the tooth and is cemented into place so that the original tooth is completely encased.

Do I need a crown?

Dr. Lee may recommend a crown in a variety of situations. A crown can cover a dental implant or a discolored or oddly shaped tooth.

In addition to making a tooth more aesthetically appealing, a crown can serve a practical purpose by strengthening a natural tooth. Teeth with large fillings and little natural tooth remaining are especially susceptible to breaking, but a crown can prevent this from happening.

Dental crowns can restore your smile's beauty. They can also be a reliable solution for teeth that need strengthening as a result of severe decay, cracks, fractures, or fillings.

What type of crown is best for my teeth?

There are a variety of dental crown materials to consider. Crowns can be made from:

• 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 often used to make 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 endure the impact of biting and chewing, but because of their color, they're commonly reserved for rear molars.

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 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 happens when I get a crown?

A majority of the time, a minimum of two appointments is required to complete a dental crown procedure. The first visit includes X-rays so that your dental professional at Denton Oak Dentistry can ascertain the condition of the tooth that’s getting a crown.

Next, Dr. Lee administers anesthesia, then build up or file down the original tooth so that the crown attaches securely. Once the tooth has been prepared, he takes an impression of your teeth. The impression is sent to the lab and used to custom-make the crown. Dr. Lee covers your tooth with a temporary crown until the permanent custom crown is finished.

If you think you may need a crown or would like to discuss your dental needs, contact the professional team at Denton Oak Dentistry or schedule an appointment online.