CROWNS (CAPS)

Types of crowns: Among the several types of crowns, porcelain crowns (tooth-colored crowns) are the most popular and widely used. They are highly durable and will typically last many years, but like most dental restorations, they may eventually need to be replaced at some point in time. Porcelain crowns are purposely made to match the contour, size, and color of your teeth and give you a natural, long-lasting beautiful smile.

• Reasons for crowns:
• Broken or fractured teeth,
• Cosmetic enhancement,
• Decayed teeth,
• Fractured fillings,
• Large fillings,
• The tooth has a root canal.

What does getting a crown involve? A crown procedure usually requires two appointments or visits. During your first appointment, the dentist will take several highly accurate molds (or impressions) that will be used to create your custom crown and even a temporary crown which will stay on your tooth for approximately two weeks until your new crown is fabricated by a dental laboratory.

The procedure: Your dentist will administer a local anesthetic and when the tooth becomes numb, he will prepare the tooth by removing any visible decay and then outlining the tooth and shaping the surface to properly fit the crown. After this process your temporary crown will be placed with temporary cement and your bite alignment will be checked to ensure you are biting properly.

Your second visit: After two weeks, in your second appointment your temporary crown will be removed followed by cleaning the affected tooth and then placing your new crown carefully to make sure your teeth align accurately, and spacing and bite are accurate. And finally, your dentist will give your clear instructions that should be followed and there will be regular dental visits to check and monitor the condition of your new crown.