Dental Crowns in Boca Raton, FL
If you have a badly decayed or damaged tooth that you want to restore, a stained or discolored tooth that you want to cover, or a tooth that needs to be strengthened, a dental crown may be the best solution. A crown is a tooth-shaped cap placed over an existing tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made tooth restoration designed to fit an entire tooth. It is made from various materials, including porcelain, metal, and composite resin. The crown covers the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gum line and is held in place with dental cement.
Crowns are an ideal option if you want to:
- Strengthen a damaged or weak tooth.
- Restore the shape, size, and appearance of a tooth.
- Improve the alignment of teeth.
- Protect a decayed tooth from further damage.
- Enhance the overall appearance of your smile.
- Provide support for a dental bridge or denture.
- Cover a dental implant or a tooth that’s been treated with a root canal therapy.
Types of Dental Crowns
There are several types of dental crowns available, and the right one for you will depend on the condition of your tooth and gum tissue, your budget, and the desired aesthetic result.
1. All Metal
All metal crowns are combined with gold, platinum, and other metals. They are strong and durable, making them an ideal choice for molars that experience a lot of wear and tear. All metal crowns may not be aesthetically pleasing for front teeth, so they are ideally used for posterior teeth.
2. All Ceramic
All ceramic crowns provide a natural-looking restoration that blends in with your existing teeth, making them an ideal choice for front teeth. They are made of porcelain, so they are resistant to staining. This type is suitable for people who have allergic reactions to metals.
3. Porcelain-Fused-To-Metal
Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are made of a combination of metal and porcelain. They provide a strong and durable restoration that is also aesthetically pleasing. The metal base provides strength and support, while the porcelain layer gives the crown a natural-looking finish.
4. Stainless Steel
Stainless steel crowns are a type of dental crown made from a combination of stainless steel and other metals such as nickel and chrome. Stainless steel crowns are ideal for children’s dentistry as they don’t require multiple visits to the dentist. They are also a cost-effective option for primary tooth restoration.
5. All Resin
All resin materials are made from composite resin, a material that matches the color of your adjacent teeth. They are not as strong or durable as other types of crowns, so they are usually used for temporary restorations.
Steps Involved in Getting a Dental Crown
Step 1: Preparing Your Tooth
During your first visit, your dentist will prepare your tooth for the crown. This involves removing any tooth decay or damaged areas of the tooth and shaping it to make room for the crown. Your dentist will then take a digital impression of your prepared tooth, which will be used to create a model of your mouth. This model will be sent to a dental laboratory to create a custom-fitted crown that fits perfectly in your mouth.
Once your tooth is prepared, your dentist will place a temporary crown over it using temporary cement. This crown is made from a material that looks and feels like natural teeth and is used to protect the tooth while the permanent crown is being made. The temporary crown can also be used to help you get used to the feel of the new restoration.
Step 2: Placement of Permanent Crown
Once your permanent crown is ready, your dentist will remove the temporary crown and place the permanent one over your tooth on your second visit. The crown is then secured in place using special dental cement.
Once the crown is in place, your dentist will check to make sure it fits properly and that it looks natural. If everything looks good, your dentist will give you instructions on how to care for your new restoration.
Schedule a Consultation with Us Today!
If you’re considering getting a dental crown, schedule a consultation with us today. Our experienced team of dentists will help you decide which type of treatment is best for your oral health needs and provide you with the highest quality care. Contact us today to get started on your journey to a healthier, more beautiful smile!