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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Crowns
Can a dental crown help if I have a tooth that feels sensitive when chewing?
Yes. Teeth with cracks, worn enamel, or weakened structure can sometimes become sensitive when biting or chewing. A dental crown may help by covering the damaged tooth and distributing bite forces more evenly. Your dentist will determine whether a crown or another treatment is most appropriate for the source of the sensitivity.
Will a dental crown change the way my bite feels?
A properly fitted crown should feel comfortable and function naturally within your bite. Some patients notice a brief adjustment period as they get used to the restoration, but the goal is to create a crown that works harmoniously with surrounding teeth and allows comfortable chewing and speaking.
Can teeth grinding affect the lifespan of a dental crown?
Teeth grinding and clenching can place significant pressure on both natural teeth and restorations. Patients who grind their teeth may experience increased wear over time. In some situations, a custom nightguard may be recommended to help protect the crown and surrounding teeth.
Are dental crowns used for cosmetic improvements as well as repair?
Yes. While crowns are commonly used to restore damaged teeth, they may also be recommended to improve the appearance of teeth that are severely worn, irregularly shaped, or difficult to enhance with more conservative cosmetic procedures. The treatment plan depends on the condition of the tooth and the patient’s goals.
What should I do if my temporary crown comes loose before my next appointment?
If a temporary crown becomes loose or falls off, contact your dental office as soon as possible. Temporary crowns help protect the prepared tooth until the permanent restoration is ready. Prompt attention can help prevent sensitivity, discomfort, or damage to the exposed tooth.
Can a crowned tooth still develop dental problems?
Although the crown itself cannot decay, the natural tooth underneath remains susceptible to issues such as cavities and gum disease. Maintaining good oral hygiene and attending regular dental checkups are important for protecting both the restoration and the underlying tooth.
How do dentists ensure a crown looks natural in my smile?
Creating a natural appearance involves considering factors such as tooth color, shape, size, and position. Dentists evaluate how the restoration will blend with neighboring teeth so the final result complements the overall smile rather than drawing attention to a single tooth.
Can a dental crown be recommended for a tooth that has become worn down over time?
Yes. Teeth can gradually wear down from years of chewing, grinding, or acid exposure. When significant wear compromises the tooth’s structure or appearance, a crown may be recommended to rebuild strength, restore proper contours, and improve overall function.
What foods should I avoid immediately after receiving a crown?
Your dentist may recommend avoiding very sticky, hard, or chewy foods for a short period after treatment. Following these instructions helps protect the restoration while you adjust to it and allows any dental cement to fully stabilize according to your dentist’s recommendations.
How can regular dental visits help protect my dental crown investment?
Routine dental appointments allow your dentist to monitor the condition of the crown, surrounding gum tissue, and supporting tooth structure. Professional evaluations can identify small concerns before they become larger problems, helping patients maximize the lifespan and performance of their 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!
