Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are more common than you might think. According to findings from the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, 15 million people in the United States have crowns put in place of missing teeth. Dr. Daniel Butensky and the team at the Dental Studios are experienced professionals, so if you think you may need a crown, book an appointment online or call today. Our offices are conveniently located in Summit and Westfield, New Jersey.
What is a crown?
A dental crown is also called a “cap.” It’s placed on top of a damaged tooth. It is sculpted to the shape of the original tooth and can enhance the tooth’s appearance and stability. The crown goes over the original tooth and is bonded into place, so the tooth is completely covered, from the gum line up.
Are dental crowns a good fit for me?
There are a number of reasons Dental Studios’ knowledgeable dentists might recommend a crown. A crown can cover a strangely-shaped or dark tooth, or a dental implant.
In addition to making a natural tooth look better, a crown can provide support to a tooth. Teeth with large fillings and little natural tooth remaining are especially susceptible to breaking, but a crown can prevent this from happening.
Whether you need a crown to improve the look of your smile or the functionality of a tooth, a dental crown can safeguard teeth.
Are there different kinds of crowns?
Crowns can be made from a variety of 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 usually the preferred 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 sturdy and able to endure the impact of chewing and biting, but because of their color, they’re usually reserved for use on back molars.
Porcelain fused to metal crowns looks more like natural teeth than metal crowns but have some drawbacks. For instance, the opposing teeth may suffer more wear and tear than they would with other types of crowns. The metal portion of the crown might also be visible as a dark line near the gums.
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’s involved with a dental crown procedure?
A dental crown procedure typically involves two visits to the dentist, at a minimum. The first visit will include X-rays so that your Dental Studios’ dental professional can evaluate the condition of the tooth in question.
Next, the dentist will administer anesthesia to numb the tooth and surrounding tissues. The tooth is built up or filed down so that the crown will fit snugly. After, 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.
Would you like to learn more about dental crowns? Think you might need a crown replaced? Contact the experienced professionals at the Dental Studios or make an appointment online.