Dental Crowns Protect and Preserve Damaged Teeth

Traditional Dental Crowns

A traditional crown is sometimes referred to as a cap because it is bonded over the tooth's structure, covering the flat chewing surface and extending all the way down the sides. There are a number of reasons that your doctor may recommend a dental crown:

• You have a cracked or weakened tooth
• You have just undergone root canal treatment
• You have a tooth with extreme discoloration or other cosmetic imperfections
• Tooth erosion has affected your appearance or the force of your bite
• You are going to receive a dental bridge to replace a missing tooth or teeth

Placing a Traditional Crown

Before placing your crown, your doctor may recommend teeth whitening. By offering this treatment in advance, we can ensure that your restoration matches your newly brightened smile. In some cases, we can offer discounted or complimentary whitening if it is combined with your restorative treatment. Before your crown is bonded in place, your dentist will reshape your tooth, using careful techniques that will result in minimal discomfort. He will then send impressions of your newly shaped tooth to our partner lab and provide you with a temporary crown. Because we have worked with the same lab for a decade, we can ensure top-quality results. Roughly ten days later, you will return to our office. During this appointment, your dentist will attach your lifelike restoration and make any minor adjustments needed for a precise fit.

Implant-supported Crowns

If you are missing a single tooth, an implant-supported crown offers several benefits. This type of dental restoration is the most realistic and durable restorative option. During the first stage of treatment, your doctor will surgically place a dental implant in the space left by your missing tooth. If needed, he can perform a bone graft or sinus lift in preparation for your implant surgery. After your jaw heals, several months later, your dentist will attach a custom-crafted crown on top of the permanent post. Your crown will remain firmly rooted to its foundation. You can eat normally, and the restoration will not affect your nearby teeth. Perhaps most significantly, the implant will prevent the bone recession that results from missing teeth and can cause additional tooth loss.

Dental Crown Materials

Both traditional and implant-supported crowns are crafted from several different materials, including metal, porcelain-fused-to-metal, all-porcelain, and zirconia. Our dentists will help you select the type that matches your cosmetic goals and budget. No matter which material you choose, your dentist will also make sure that your restoration maintains the normal force of your bite.

Schedule an Appointment

At NÜVA Smile, we are committed to personalized care, and we will always make treatment recommendations that are in your best interests. Contact us to learn more about dental crowns and your restorative options.