Crowns

What is a dental crown?

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped covering used to restore a tooth’s strength, shape, size, or aesthetic appearance. When cemented in place, a crown covers the entire visible portion of your tooth that sits above the gumline. 

What types of issues can dental crowns correct?

Dental crowns are incredibly versatile and can correct a number of problems. The team might recommend a dental crown to: 

• Restore a damaged tooth
• Protect a weak tooth
• Hold a bridge in place
• Support a tooth
• Cover a dental implant

Your dentist may also recommend a dental crown to treat a cosmetic issue such as a chipped or discolored tooth. 

What types of dental crowns do you offer?

Whenever possible, the team uses all-ceramic crowns to restore patients’ teeth. All-ceramic crowns mimic the color and light-reflecting properties of your tooth enamel. In addition, they’re long-lasting and ideal for people who suffer from metal allergies. 

How many appointments does getting a dental crown take?

Getting a dental crown requires two separate appointments. 

At your first appointment, your dentist performs an oral exam, reviews your medical history, and takes a series of X-rays. If there are signs of an infection in your affected tooth, your dentist may also recommend a root canal before moving forward with treatment. 

If there’s no infection present, your Daniella Perez Simon, DMD provider prepares your tooth for a crown. First, the team administers a local anesthetic to numb your teeth and gums. Next, they carefully file down the tooth that’s receiving the crown. After reshaping your crown, your dentist uses putty to make a series of impressions. Lastly, your tooth is covered with a temporary crown. Your dentist sends your impressions to a dental lab that manufactures your permanent ceramic crown.

A week or two later, you return for your second appointment. At your second appointment, your dentist administers a local anesthetic and cements your permanent ceramic crown in place. The process typically takes between 45-60 minutes. 

How do I protect my dental crown from damage?

Caring for your dental crown is easy and hassle-free. Simply brush and floss like you regularly would, and visit the team at Daniella Perez Simon, DMD every six months for a professional cleaning and exam. You should also avoid bad habits like biting your fingernails or chewing on ice. If you follow these instructions, your all-ceramic crown can last up to 15 years. 

If you have a cracked, chipped, or decaying tooth, a dental crown is worth considering. Call the office or click the online scheduling tool to request your appointment at Daniella Perez Simon, DMD today.