A dental crown is a versatile restoration designed to address various dental needs, from strengthening damaged teeth to enhancing the aesthetics of your smile. A crown, sometimes referred to as a cap, is custom designed to cover the entire visible portion of a tooth, beginning at the gumline. This not only restores the tooth’s original shape and size but also helps protect it from further damage. Crowns can be made from materials such as gold, porcelain or porcelain fused to metal with porcelain being a popular choice for its natural appearance and ability to blend seamlessly with your surrounding teeth.
When a Dental Crown Can Benefit You
Dental crowns are commonly used when a tooth is severely damaged, impacting both the function and the appearance of the specific tooth and your overall smile and oral health. In addition to restoring compromised teeth, dental crowns serve a variety of other restorative and cosmetic purposes, making them a highly adaptable treatment option. For example:
- Crowns are often recommended after root canal therapy to protect and strengthen the treated tooth.
- They are also used to anchor and stabilize a dental bridge, ensuring that it stays securely in place.
- For patients with dental implants, crowns are an essential component, completing the restoration by providing a natural-looking replacement for the missing tooth.
- Additionally, crowns can enhance the appearance of your smile by covering discolored, misshapen or uneven teeth.
- If a tooth has a large filling and little natural structure remaining, a crown can provide the support needed to maintain its integrity.
- Crowns are also an excellent option for reinforcing teeth that are cracked or weakened, preventing further damage and reducing the risk of tooth loss.
The Dental Crown Process
The process of getting a crown typically involves two visits with our dentist. During the first visit, the tooth is prepared by removing any decay and reshaping it to accommodate the crown. An impression is then taken to create a custom-fitted restoration. While your permanent crown is being fabricated, a temporary crown will be placed to protect your tooth. At the second visit, the permanent crown is bonded securely in place, restoring your tooth’s strength and appearance.
If you are experiencing dental concerns or are looking for ways to improve your smile, a crown may be the ideal solution. Contact our office at 973-228-0200 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Stacy Oberfield and learn how dental crowns in Caldwell, New Jersey, can restore your oral health and confidence. Our team is here to guide you through the process and ensure that your treatment is tailored to your specific needs.