Crowns

When a large portion of your tooth breaks off or you have a very large, questionable old filling, a crown is the recommended treatment option.

As we get a little older, our teeth become more brittle and develop internal fracture lines from use so they are more prone to fracture. If you already have a large filling in your tooth, especially if the tooth had a root canal treatment or has decay, it is not uncommon for a part of the tooth to break off. This is even more common with people who grind or clench their teeth.

If your tooth is beyond repair with a filling material, the best option to save the tooth is a full crown. A crown will surround the tooth providing durability, cosmetic appearance, and overall support of chewing function.

Types of Crowns

If we decide that you are in need of a full crown, there are a few different options for the repair of your tooth. These options include a full porcelain crown, a porcelain fused to gold crown, or a full gold crown. We will make the determination as to which of these options is the most appropriate for your situation. You can be comfortable in knowing that your new tooth will be virtually unnoticeable and will complement the rest of your smile.

Procedure

A crown is usually done over 2 appointments. The first is the longer, harder one. The second is typically short and easy.

First you will be numbed with a local anesthetic. Then any large old fillings will be removed and replaced with a new 'core' filling. The tooth is then reduced to a smaller size to make room to cover it with a crown. Next a cord(small string) is temporarily placed under the gum and then an impression or mold is made of your teeth to send to the laboratory. Finally a temporary 'plastic' crown is placed over your tooth to last till you return.

On the shorter return visit you usually do not need to be numbed. We remove the temporary and try in the new crown. We make any adjustments necessary and check it for proper fit. We then permanently cement it to your tooth.

As long as you take care of your teeth with proper brushing, flossing and dental visits your crown should provide many years of worry free service.