Dental Crowns FAQ

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What is a dental crown?

A crown is a cap that looks like the visible part of a tooth and can cover one that has been damaged, holding it together and protecting it from further harm, whether that resulted from grinding teeth while sleeping or having been chipped or cracked. When cavities are so large that a filling is not adequate, a crown can be placed over it, instead. If you have a root canal, once the cleaning of the canals is completed, a crown is often placed on top to provide a strong, new artificial tooth. It can also be the replacement for a tooth that was lost due to an accident or poor dental hygiene, either attached to a dental implant anchored in the jawbone or attached by a dental bridge to hang between the teeth next to the gap that was left when the tooth was knocked or fell out or extracted.

What is a crown made of and how is it created?

Dental crowns can be made of a wide variety of biocompatible materials, including dental ceramic, porcelain fused to metal, or a gold alloy. Your dentist will conduct a full exam to determine which teeth need some form of a crown and the best material. Soothing Dental only uses those that are durable and typically can last, with proper care, 10-20 years. An impression mold is made of the area where the crown is to be placed to create a temporary cap, while another is sent to a top dental laboratory to craft a crown that can be made to match the shade of the teeth next to the gap. On the second visit, about two weeks later, the crown will be fitted and adjusted.

How soon should a dental crown be placed after it is needed?

People often assume that whatever damage has been done is as far as it will go and they will get around to having a cap when it is convenient or more affordable. Actually, the longer you wait, the worse the problem is likely to get, including damage to other teeth because of bite misalignment. We can discuss not only whether your dental insurance covers some or all of a new cap, but the discounts available through our membership plan.

Are there cosmetic benefits?

One or more crowns can be central to a cosmetic smile makeover, along with veneers, teeth whitening, implants, and other procedures. A new and more attractive smile will give you new confidence, whether at work or socially.

Call for an appointment to discuss what a dental crown could do for you.

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