What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a restorative treatment that covers and protects a damaged or decayed tooth, restoring its strength, shape, and appearance. Also known as a “cap,” a crown is custom-made to fit over a tooth that is too compromised for a filling. It is often recommended after a root canal, for a large cavity, or to reinforce a fractured tooth. Crowns can be made from porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of materials, each offering varying levels of durability and aesthetics. By covering and stabilizing the natural tooth, a crown helps maintain both function and appearance, preserving your overall dental health.
The Dental Crowns Treatment Process
Getting a dental crown involves a few key steps to ensure a precise fit and natural look. After preparing the tooth, impressions are taken to craft a custom crown that is then placed securely over the affected tooth.
Tooth Preparation
During your visit to Dental Sanctuary of Fanwood, Dr. Tanvi Patel or Dr. Priya Patel will examine the damaged tooth to determine the best approach. Any decay is removed, and the tooth is reshaped to create a stable base for the crown. If the tooth is severely compromised, a filling material may be used to build up its structure. Local anesthesia is administered to ensure a comfortable experience. This preparation is essential to ensure a snug, secure fit for the final restoration.
Taking Impressions
Once the tooth is prepared, the next step is taking impressions. These impressions serve as a mold for your custom crown, ensuring it fits precisely and aligns with your bite. Using either traditional putty material or digital scanning technology, the dentist captures the contours of the prepared tooth and surrounding teeth. The impressions are sent to a dental lab where technicians craft a crown that matches the shape and color of your natural teeth. While waiting for the permanent crown, a temporary crown may be placed to protect the tooth.
Crown Placement
When your custom crown is ready, you’ll return for the final placement. Dr. Tanvi Patel or Dr. Priya Patel will remove the temporary crown and check the fit and color of the new one. Once any necessary adjustments are made, the crown is permanently cemented onto the prepared tooth. This ensures a secure bond and allows the crown to function like a natural tooth. The dentist will check your bite to make sure it feels comfortable before completing the procedure.
The Benefits of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns provide long-term protection and improved aesthetics while restoring the function of a weakened tooth. They offer a reliable solution for patients looking to maintain a healthy, confident smile.
Structural Support
Crowns protect and strengthen compromised teeth, preventing further damage. By encasing the tooth, they reinforce its structure and reduce the risk of fractures, preserving natural teeth for longer.
Aesthetic Enhancement
Custom-designed to match natural teeth, crowns restore the appearance of misshapen, discolored, or damaged teeth. Porcelain and ceramic crowns blend seamlessly, creating a natural, radiant smile.
Durability and Longevity
Made from strong, wear-resistant materials, crowns can last many years with proper care. Regular dental visits, along with good oral hygiene, help maintain their integrity, making them a durable, cost-effective restoration.
