TREATMENTS

 
Dental Crown                                        
 
What is a crown?
A crown is a "cap" that is custom made to precisely fit over your tooth. There are several reasons for placing a crown on a tooth. If the tooth needs structural support, a crown can be placed to help protect it. This commonly occurs when the tooth has large fillings that over time weaken the tooth and result in fractures in the tooth. A crown can be placed over the tooth to preserve it and help hold it together. If a tooth has extensive decay that has destroyed too much tooth, a crown may also be needed. Crowns can also be placed on teeth to change their appearance and/or the occlusion(bite).

What are crowns made from?
Crowns can be fabricated from various materials such as porcelain, gold , and a combination of porcelain and metal. Which material is used depends on which tooth is being treated and for what reason. All of these materials work very well if used appropriately.

What do crowns look like?
The appearance of crowns vary depending on what type is being utilized. Crowns have changed significantly over recent years and it is possible to make them look so natural that they are virtually undetectable. If you are unhappy with the appearance of your crowns, ask Dr. Solar what options you have for improving your situation.

How long will a crown last?
Crowns are meant to be a long term restoration but it is difficult to give an exact lifespan for a crown. There are many variables which influence how long a crown will last. These include but are not limited to the following:
-How the patient cares for their teeth
-Whether the patient grinds their teeth
-The position of the tooth in the mouth
-The strength of the patient's bite

What is done to prepare a tooth for a crown?
It typically requires two appointments to have a crown placed on your tooth. During the first appointment, the tooth will be shaped so that a crown can fit over it. In most situations, existing fillings will be removed and the underlying tooth structure will be evaluated. In some situations, a core buildup will be placed if there is an inadequate amount of tooth to retain the crown. A precise impression will be taken of the tooth once it has been shaped and then a provisional (temporary) crown will be placed on the tooth. The laboratory will use the impression and other information recorded during the first appointment to fabricate a crown specifically for your tooth. At the second appointment, the provisional crown will be removed and the permanent crown will be tried on the tooth and after it is carefully checked the crown will be cemented on the tooth.