A dental crown is a custom dental restoration that replaces the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gums. This prosthetic fits over the remaining part of the natural tooth and restores its function, size, and shape.
Dental crowns are used to fix teeth that are broken or decayed, to restore the appearance of cosmetically damaged teeth, and to provide support for a tooth with a large filling when there is not enough tooth structure left to keep it in place.
Dental crowns can be made of various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, composite resin, and more. At George J. Karr, DDS, our dentist will help you decide which type of dental crown is right for you based on the location of the tooth to be treated and your aesthetic and functional needs.
How Are Dental Crowns Applied?
During your first visit to the dentist’s office, the tooth will be prepared to receive the crown by removing any damaged parts. We will then take an impression of the tooth and surrounding gums to create a custom crown in a dental lab. A temporary crown will be attached to protect the tooth until your new crown is ready. Once your new crown arrives, we will bond it in place with dental cement. With proper care, crowns can last for several years before needing to be repaired or replaced.
The Benefits of Dental Crowns
A crown is a permanent cap that fits over a damaged tooth, covering it on all sides like a jacket. The crown prevents further damage to the tooth and restores its shape, size, strength, and appearance. It’s made from porcelain or ceramic materials that look like your natural teeth. It’s also customizable to match the exact shade of your teeth so that no one will even know you have a crown. They are made of solid materials that make them long-lasting and durable.
Dental crowns can restore a tooth that has suffered from a large cavity that is too damaged for a filling to correct. They can also protect a weak or cracked tooth from further damage. Sometimes a dentist will recommend a crown as part of a root canal treatment if the tooth can’t support a filling alone.
A crown is an effective way to restore a tooth that is damaged or decayed while allowing you to retain as much of your natural tooth structure as possible. Visit the dentist in Boca Raton, FL - George J. Karr, DDS, at 1590 NW 10th Ave #400, Boca Raton, 33486, or call (561) 368-9966 to learn more about dental crowns.