Crowns
What Are Dental Crowns?
If a tooth is damaged from trauma or dental treatments, the structure can be weakened. A dental crown is a tooth restoration that fits over the damaged tooth to provide a protective covering and durable surface for chewing. Dental crowns come in a variety of materials, including metals like silver and gold, as well as porcelain to match tooth color. At The Smile Lounge, we provide dental crowns that can protect a damaged tooth or improve the appearance of your smile.
Why Are Dental Crowns Needed?
A cracked or broken tooth may need a dental crown to restore its function and appearance – without a crown, many damaged teeth may need to be removed. Dental crowns are also beneficial if a tooth has had a significant amount of tooth material removed due to a root canal or large fillings. In some cases, dental crowns are used in restorative or cosmetic dentistry treatments, including dental bridges and dental implants.
Who Is a Candidate for Dental Crowns?
Almost anyone who has a damaged tooth can be a good candidate for a dental crown. A crown prevents further damage to a tooth, and we design the crown to fit comfortably in your bite. Dental crowns are cemented in place and can last for decades, depending on the type of material used, where the crown is placed and how well a patient cares for their teeth. Metal crowns will last longer than porcelain in most cases, but many patients prefer tooth-colored crowns made from porcelain for their appearance.
What Happens During a Dental Crowns Procedure?
To cover the damaged tooth with a dental crown, the existing tooth must be filed smaller to fit inside the crown. During your first visit for a dental crown, we will numb the area and reshape the tooth. We will also create a mold or impression of your tooth to make a dental crown that is the right size and shape to match your bite. We can use a temporary crown on your tooth to protect it while your permanent dental crown is created in a dental lab. On your second visit, the dental crown will be cemented to the tooth and checked to ensure it fits properly.
If you need a dental crown to repair a tooth, come see us at The Smile Lounge in Grand Prairie.
