Crowns
Dental crowns are recommended by dentists for a variety of reasons. If you have been told you need a dental crown (caps) and are unsure if it is the best option for you, please call today for a second opinion and consultation with our dental team.
Whatever your dental problem is, the first step is to schedule an appointment with your Cottonwood Smiles dentist. During a consultation, your caring and gentle dentist will examine your teeth, take pictures, show you the concerns and discuss the options to restore the tooth. A crown might be one of a couple options available. It will be up to you and your dentist to talk about the pros and cons of each options.
Ultimately, making the decision together so you are confident the best dental care and treatment is being provided to you or your loved one.
Porcelain dental crowns, sometimes called dental “caps” replace the exterior portion of a tooth to re–establish its original function. This dental procedure will create a natural appearance along with durability. Crowns are the treatment of choice in situations where tooth decay has destroyed most of the original tooth, when a traumatic injury has caused tooth damage, or in cases of severe enamel erosion. When a dental filling is not the best option, a dental crown is a conservative and safe option to restore your tooth to full function.
Dental crowns differ from a dental veneer. They are both make from porcelain, but a dental crown is used to cover the entire tooth. A dental crown can be all porcelain or re-enforced with a metal base for strength. Your dentist will help determine which is best for you for function and aesthetics. A porcelain dental veneer covers only the front surface of a tooth. Veneers cannot be used to restore back teeth, like bicuspids or molars because they are not strong enough to withstand the forces of biting and chewing. It is best to seek the advice of your local dentist near Cottonwood, Arizona.
Dental crowns generally require two appointments to complete the procedure. The first dental appointment the tooth is prepared by the dentist. This appointment can take about an hour and it is important to take the time to ensure the crown fits precisely. The intent of a crown is to restore the damaged tooth and to seal and protect the natural tooth structure underneath. The dentist will take an impression of the prepared tooth for a dental laboratory to fabricate your custom crown.
While your custom porcelain crown is being made by the lab, you will have a temporary crown on the tooth to protect it. It is important to keep your temporary crown clean and in place. They are designed to last approximately two weeks. Because your temporary crown will not seal the tooth properly you must return to the dentist for a second appointment. The new porcelain crown will be seated and sealed to your tooth. Often the dentist, will make slight adjustments so your bite feels even.
Maintaining porcelain dental crowns is quite simple. Much like your original teeth, they require routine brushing with non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste and regular flossing. Of course, regular routine care with your dental team is necessary to check the integrity of the natural tooth structure and gum tissue around your crown. It is important to remember a dental crown covers your natural tooth, it does not replace it.
If you have any questions or ready to schedule a consultation with the dentist voted the best in Cottonwood, give us a call.