Crowns Specialist

What are dental crowns?

Dental crowns are synthetic caps bonded to a damaged or decaying molar or premolar (the teeth at the back of your mouth). Once placed, they restore your tooth to its near-original shape and appearance, allowing you to bite and chew confidently. 

Crowns are made of various materials, including metal alloys, ceramic, porcelain, and composite resin. The type of crown that will most benefit you depends on the amount of damage or decay, your budget, and goals for treatment. 

Why would I need a dental crown?

At Esthetic Partners Dental Group, the team uses crowns for various reasons, including to:

• Protect weak or decaying teeth
• Restore a broken or worn down tooth
• Cover teeth with deep decay that won’t respond to a filling
• Make cosmetic modifications
• Cover dental implants

You might also need a dental crown if you’re getting a dental bridge. A crown holds the bridge in place, preventing the surrounding teeth from shifting out of position. 

What is the process for getting dental crowns?

At Esthetic Partners Dental Group, getting dental crowns takes two appointments:

First appointment

During your first appointment, the team conducts an oral exam and takes a series of oral X-rays to assess the damage or decay affecting your tooth. After gathering the necessary information, they administer a local anesthetic, and carefully remove the decaying or damaged portion of your tooth.

Next, they take impressions of your tooth with an intraoral scanner. They send your impressions to a dental laboratory that uses them to design and manufacture a custom crown that fits perfectly. Before leaving the office, your provider bonds a temporary crown to the top of your tooth to prevent further damage.

Second appointment

When the laboratory finishes your permanent crown, you return to the nearest office. Your provider administers a local anesthetic, removes the temporary crown, and bonds the permanent crown in place. Then, they trim any excess material, polish your teeth, and provide care instructions.

How long do dental crowns last?

Dental crowns last an average of 12-15 years, but it’s possible to extend their lifespan with good oral hygiene. The team at Esthetic Partners Dental Group recommends visiting the nearest office at least two times a year for an oral exam and professional teeth cleaning and brushing and flossing daily.

To prevent chips, cracks, or other damage, avoid bad habits like chewing on ice cubes or opening objects with your teeth. If you clench your jaw or grind your teeth while sleeping, you might also want to wear a nightguard.

To learn more about dental crowns, make an appointment at Esthetic Partners Dental Group by calling the nearest office to speak with a friendly member of the administrative staff, or by clicking the online booking tool today.