Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are among the most versatile dental treatments available. They offer both restorative and cosmetic benefits to patients and are also often used as a last-resort treatment to save a natural tooth.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a hollow tooth-shaped dental appliance that is typically made from porcelain or, sometimes, porcelain fused to metal. A dental crown is designed to fit snuggly over an existing tooth’s natural structure. Sometimes called a dental cap, dental crowns cover or cap the entire visible portion of a tooth.
Will My Dental Crown Be Visible?
Yes, you will be able to see your dental crown since they cover the exposed (above the gum line) portion of a tooth. However, dental crowns are color-matched to the patient’s natural teeth and designed to blend in seamlessly to create a natural look with the neighboring teeth. So, although you can see them, dental crowns look just like regular teeth.
Why You Might Need a Dental Crown
There are several instances when a patient might benefit from a dental crown:
- Preserving a natural tooth after a root canal procedure
- Strengthening a severely damaged tooth
- Covering up a significantly chipped tooth
- Covering up a permanently stained or discolored tooth
- Covering up teeth with old, silver-colored amalgam dental fillings
- Protecting a fractured tooth from infection
- Covering up a misshapen tooth or a tooth that is too small to achieve a more symmetrical look
- Replacing a natural tooth with a dental implant
- Permanently affixing a dental bridge in the mouth
Often, patients receiving a dental crown experience multiple benefits – both related to oral health and the appearance of their smiles.
What Is the Process of Getting a Dental Crown?
Getting a dental crown is a fairly simple process that begins with a consultation and examination.
Once we have determined that a dental crown is the right treatment option, the patient’s tooth is prepped for receiving a crown. This typically involves removing any decayed tissue, cleaning the tooth, filling the tooth if necessary, and shaving down the outer layers of the tooth so that a dental crown can fit comfortably over the surface without crowding the neighboring teeth.
We then take digital oral impressions. We use these 3D digital impressions to design and create a new dental crown that is custom-fitted to the individual patient. We then fit the patient with a temporary crown that protects the natural tooth until the permanent crown is ready.
Once the permanent crown is ready, we remove the temporary crown and affix the permanent crown to the tooth using dental cement.
Is Getting a Dental Crown Painful?
No, we ensure that getting a dental crown is a painless process. Throughout the procedure, we use local anesthetics to make sure patients experience no pain, discomfort, or sensitivity during their treatments.
If you have a history of suffering from dental anxiety, we welcome you to contact our office before your treatment to inquire about solutions to help you relax and mitigate stress during your appointment.
Dental Crowns at Northern Colorado Prosthetic Dentistry
Dr. Bock at NCPD is highly experienced in fitting patients with dental crowns for both restorative and cosmetic purposes. To learn more about dental crowns or to schedule a consultation with our dentist in Loveland, CO, we welcome you to contact our office today.
