Dental Crowns

Posted by Legacy Dental Clinic Mar 01, 2023

A dental crown refers to a tooth-shaped cap that is placed over a tooth in order to restore its shape, size, strength, and improve its appearance. Crowns protect teeth from further damage and help restore their shape, size, and appearance.

What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown covers the entire visible tooth above the gum line. They provide exceptional protection and strength to damaged teeth, and they can also be used to anchor a dental bridge into place.

During the procedure, your dentist will prepare the tooth by slightly reducing its size so that the crown can fit on top. Once the restoration has been fabricated, it will be affixed to your tooth using a strong bonding agent. Porcelain crowns can be color matched to blend in seamlessly with your smile.

Why is a Dental Crown needed?

A dental crown will repair a broken, chipped or fractured tooth. It will also restore a tooth that is worn down from grinding or erosion. Sometimes, a crown will be used to cover a large filling when there isn’t a lot of remaining tooth structure left. Other reasons include covering an implant post and protecting a tooth treated with root canal therapy.

If you grind your teeth at night, your dentist may recommend a night guard to protect your teeth from damage as you sleep. If it is determined that you are clenching and grinding your teeth during the day as well, we can discuss orthodontics as an option to help correct the problem. An examination can help determine whether you require a dental crown or another treatment option.

You can keep yourself from getting crowns by practicing good oral hygiene habits. Brushing and flossing will help remove plaque, bacteria and other debris that can cause decay or infection in your tooth. Be sure to schedule regular checkups with Legacy Dental Clinic so we can monitor your oral health and recommend any preventive treatments that you may need.

How are Dental Crowns made?

To create a custom crown, your dentist will first need to prepare the tooth for the crown. This means that the enamel will be filed down to make room for the crown. Then an impression of the tooth will be made and sent to a laboratory to create your custom-fit restoration. Once the crown has been created, it will be bonded in place using an adhesive. During the procedure, it is common that your natural tooth may be altered in size or shape to ensure a proper fit. Rest assured that the restoration will fit you perfectly and look extremely lifelike.

Contact Legacy Dental Clinic today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Jennifer Nguyen! Call us at (825) 467-8888.