Crowns Specialist

What is a 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 strengthen the tooth and restore its appearance. The crown acts as a protective covering, as it's fitted over the original tooth so that the visible portion of the tooth is encased. It's sealed in place with dental cement.

Why would I need a crown?

There are a variety of reasons the experienced dentists at Lansdale Family Dentistry may suggest a crown. A crown can cover a dental implant or stained or worn tooth.

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.

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.

Which kind of crown is right for my teeth?

Dental crowns can be constructed from many materials, including:

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

Different materials are used for different purposes. For example, stainless steel is the most common material for temporary crowns. Stainless steel crowns are often prefabricated and are a frequent choice for children who need crowns on baby teeth.

Metal crowns are strong and able to endure the impact of chewing and biting, but due to their striking color, they're commonly used on teeth in the rear of the mouth.

Porcelain fused to metal crowns looks more like natural teeth than metal crowns but have some drawbacks. For instance, the metal portion of the crown might show as a dark line close to the gums. The opposing teeth may also experience more wear than they would with another type of crown.

All-resin crowns are generally a less expensive option, but are also more prone to cracking, whereas all-ceramic crowns are the best option for people who have metal allergies.

What should I expect when I get a crown?

A dental crown procedure typically involves two visits to the dentist, at a minimum. During the first appointment, your Lansdale Family Dentistry professional will take X-rays to ascertain the condition of the tooth that’s getting a crown.

Next, your dentist will administer anesthesia, then file down or build up the tooth so that the crown can be attached properly. Once the tooth has been prepared, the dentist will make an impression of your teeth, which a lab will use to manufacture the crown. Your dentist will fabricate a temporary crown to safeguard your tooth until the permanent crown is completed and in place.

To learn more about dental crowns, call Lansdale Family Dentistry or make an appointment online.