Dental Crowns
Dental Crowns
Get That Smile You've Always Wanted
A dental crown is a cap that fits over an existing tooth. Its purpose is to restore the tooth to its original shape, size and function. Ultimately, a crown will improve look of a tooth while making it stronger and more productive.
Reasons You Might Need a Crown
- A cavity that is too big for a filling.
- A tooth that is cracked, worn down or weak.
- Protection for a tooth that has had a root canal.
- Covering for a discolored or poorly shaped tooth
If you need a crown, contact us today to schedule your appointment.
With a proper dental crown designed to blend in, it is hard to detect which of your teeth have crowns.
How Crowns Are Made
Crowns can be made from several different types of materials, including porcelain, metal alloys, ceramics, a resin composite or porcelain fused to metal. We typically make ceramic crowns to achieve the best cosmetic result.
To determine which material to use, the dentist will take the following factors into consideration:
- The location and function of the tooth.
- The position of a patient’s gum tissue.
- The patient’s preference.
- The amount of tooth that shows when the patient smiles.
- The color and shade of the tooth.
What to Expect
Getting a crown is a multi-step process that requires two trips to the dentist’s office. If you need to get a dental crown for any reason, you can expect the dentist to perform the following steps:
- The dentist will prepare the tooth by removing the outer portion of the tooth and any decay. If necessary, the dentist will also build up the core of the tooth.
- Digital scans are taken of the tooth from which the lab will make the permanent crown.
- A temporary crown is placed in the mouth for two weeks until the permanent one is ready.
- The permanent crown is put in the mouth, adjusted to the perfect fit and cemented into place.
Caring For Your Teeth After Getting a Crown
Caring for a tooth with a crown is the same as caring for your natural teeth. It is crucial that you clean around the crown by brushing and flossing. Even a tooth with a crown can get a cavity. Although crowns are very strong, they can break. You should avoid chewing the same things you shouldn’t chew on natural teeth, e.g. ice and hard candy. Follow these simple steps for proper care or your crowns:
- Brush teeth twice daily.
- Clean between teeth once a day.
- Use products that have the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance.
- Avoid chewing hard foods like ice and objects like pencils.
- Get oral exams regularly.
Whether you’re looking to schedule a routine cleaning or to enhance your smile with a new crown, the Ellicott Mills Dental staff is excited to create the perfect smile for you. Fill out our appointment request form or give us a call at 410-461-3311
