Crowns

Why would I need a dental crown?

Dental crowns are placed to cover an existing tooth. They serve the function of:

• Protecting teeth damaged by trauma or decay
• Strengthening teeth weakened by excessively large fillings
• Protecting cracked teeth or teeth in danger of breaking
• Covering misshapen or discolored teeth
• Topping dental implants used to replace missing teeth

Dental crowns may be the only treatment you need or part of a comprehensive cosmetic dentistry plan.

What are dental crowns made of?

Porcelain 

Dental crowns are most often made from natural-looking porcelain. These match the color and sheen of your natural teeth and blend in beautifully with your existing smile. 

They can replace any missing teeth in your mouth but are especially good for front teeth that are visible every time you smile. 

All-metal 

The providers at WestCare Dental also provide traditional all-metal crowns. The advantage of these crowns is that they are exceptionally strong and won’t wear down with aggressive chewing and biting. 

Metal dental crowns are usually set on the very back teeth where they aren’t as noticeable. 

Porcelain-fused-to-metal 

You may also choose a porcelain-fused-to-metal crown. These are a hybrid of porcelain and metal crowns and consist of a metal core covered with a thin porcelain sheet. 

However, these crowns are vulnerable to chipping, revealing the metal beneath. They may also show up as slightly darker than your natural teeth. 

What happens during a dental crown placement?

Crown placement happens in just a few dental visits. During your first visit at WestCare Dental, your provider shaves a minimal amount of the affected tooth’s enamel away to make room for the crown. This step isn’t necessary in cases of implants, large fillings, or root canals. Removing some enamel makes sure the crown will sit in line with the rest of your smile. 

Next, your provider takes impressions of your teeth and sends it to a lab to manufacture the crown. You get a temporary crown to protect the vulnerable tooth as you wait a week or two for the permanent crown to come in. 

At your next visit, the temporary crown is removed and the permanent one bonded into place. Your provider checks your bite meticulously to ensure the crown feels and looks natural.

To find out more about dental crowns offered at WestCare Dental, call the office or book a consultation on this website.