When your tooth has extensive decay, fractures, cracks, or large fillings, a crown might be your best restorative option. A crown (also known as a cap) is permanently placed over a tooth to restore its function, shape, strength, and improve its appearance. Dental crowns are used to repair or preserve a tooth from breaking, or restore one that’s already broken.
There are several materials to select from. While we like the long term wear and biocompatibility of gold, we love the strength and realistic esthetics of tooth-colored zirconia. We are happy to guide you through the options.
The crown typically includes two separate appointments – the first appointment is to prepare the tooth by removing decay, filling in any voids with bonding material, shaping the tooth for the crown, and using 3D scans to send a virtual replica of your mouth to the lab. When leaving the first appointment, you will not go without a space holder! We send you out with a temporary crown placed with temporary cement. Approximately two weeks later, when the lab has finished creating your crown, you would have your second appointment to adjust and cement your new permanent crown.
Our 3D scanner allows us to take virtual impressions. These digital impressions are more accurate, and less messy than the gooey materials used in the past. The lab prints out 3D models of your mouth, which they use to create beautiful and strong crowns. Trusted expert lab technicians have the ability to create high quality, strong, esthetic permanent crowns specifically for your mouth. We choose to use expert technicians instead of an in-house crown milling system. We want to ensure you are happy with your smile. So, for front teeth we’ll schedule one extra step where you can visit the lab and have the technician perform a custom tooth color match.
There are several materials that can be used to create your crown including porcelain, ceramic, and gold. While we like the long-term wear and biocompatibility of gold, we love the strength and realistic esthetics of tooth-colored zirconia. But don’t’ worry, we’ll guide you through the options.
After finalizing your dental procedure, the new crown may seem slightly foreign. After taking some time getting used to your new crown, it should feel and function like a regular tooth. If you have any questions regarding your procedure, please do not hesitate to reach out!