One of the key restorative treatments offered at Dr. Pranati Chokshi Family Dentistry is the dental crown, commonly known as a dental cap. A dental crown is a type of restoration that covers the damaged, decayed, or broken portion of a tooth, protecting the remaining healthy tooth structure.
Book OnlineWhen is a dental crown needed?
There are several instances when a tooth requires a crown. The most common reason is after a tooth has undergone root canal treatment. Post-treatment, the tooth can become more fragile and needs the added protection of a crown to prevent further damage. Additionally, we may choose to restore a tooth with a crown in the following situations:
- Extensive Decay: When a tooth has severe decay that cannot be adequately restored with a filling.
- Large Old Amalgam Fillings: If a tooth has large, old amalgam fillings that compromise its structure.
- Damage from Wear or Trauma: Teeth that have been worn down by grinding or damaged by an injury.
Types of Dental Crowns
Dr. Chokshi uses various high-quality materials to create dental crowns, ensuring the best match for your needs. The materials we commonly use include:
- Zirconia: Known for its strength and durability.
- Emax (Lithium Disilicate): Offers excellent aesthetics and strength.
- Porcelain Fused to High Noble Metal: Combines the aesthetic appeal of porcelain with the strength of metal.
- Gold: Highly durable and suitable for molars that require strong support.
The Crown Procedure
The process of getting a dental crown typically requires two appointments:
- First Appointment: Dr. Chokshi will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping it to fit the crown. An impression of the tooth is then taken to create a custom crown. A temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth until the permanent crown is ready.
- Second Appointment: The temporary crown is removed, and the permanent crown is fitted, adjusted, and cemented into place. We ensure that the crown is perfect in fit and appearance before finalizing the procedure.
Our Commitment to Quality
Dr. Chokshi and our team take pride in delivering high-quality dental work and strive to ensure that every crown meets our patients’ satisfaction. We do not finalize the crown until the patient approves it, guaranteeing a comfortable fit and a natural appearance. We are dedicated to preserving your smile and enhancing your dental health with precision and care, all from the convenience of our Winter Garden dental office. If you think you might need a dental crown or have any questions, please contact us to schedule an appointment
Over time our teeth begin to weaken and become more susceptible to problems such as decay, cracks, discoloration and others. If you feel your smile isn’t what it once was, crowns can help you recover your smile. If your dentist notices that a tooth is decayed or seems weakened/cracked a crown may be necessary to make sure that there are no additional problems with the tooth. In cases like this a filling or bonding will not be sufficient.
Crowns can be made from porcelain, porcelain fused to metal, or a full gold crown. To maintain a natural look and feel a porcelain finished crown is best, as it can be matched to the shade of your other teeth. This will allow it to blend in and appear just like one of your natural teeth.
The process of installing a crown takes 2-3 visits to the dentist. On the first visit the tooth will be reshaped by filing down the enamel so that the crown can be placed over it. You will be given a local anesthetic before this part of the procedure so that you do not experience any discomfort. Once the tooth has been reshaped, a mold will be taken of that tooth and the surrounding teeth. This mold will be sent to a dental lab so that your new crown can be made so that it fits in the spot created for it and looks the same relative to the surrounding teeth. Before leaving, your dentist will fit you with a temporary crown until your permanent crown is ready.
The crown takes about 2-3 weeks to be returned to your dentist. At this time you will have another appointment to place and fit the permanent crown. You will again have a local anesthetic to numb the area and the tooth will be placed using a cement to ensure the tooth sets in place. When you look in the mirror, you will see your old smile back. Crowns are durable and will usually last about 10-15 years. You should care for it as you would any of your other teeth with regular brushing and flossing. Call us today if you would like to learn more about how crowns can help restore your smile.