If you’re dealing with a damaged, weakened, or severely decayed tooth, a dental crown may be the ideal solution to restore both function and appearance. Dental crowns are custom-made caps that completely cover a damaged tooth, providing strength, protection, and a natural-looking result that can last for many years with proper care.
At Elite Dental Aesthetics, we understand the importance of preserving your natural teeth whenever possible. Our restorative dentistry approach focuses on providing high-quality, durable solutions that restore your oral health while maintaining the beauty of your smile. Dr. Adams and our experienced team take the time to ensure each crown is precisely crafted to match your natural teeth and provide optimal comfort and function.
What Are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped restoration that encases the entire visible portion of a tooth above the gum line. Think of it as a protective shell that covers and strengthens a damaged tooth while restoring its original shape, size, and appearance. Crowns are typically made from durable materials such as porcelain, ceramic, or porcelain-fused-to-metal, allowing them to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
Crowns can strengthen teeth with large cavities when there isn’t enough healthy tooth structure remaining to support a traditional filling. They also serve multiple purposes, including protecting weakened teeth from further damage, restoring broken or severely worn teeth, and improving the appearance of misshapen or discolored teeth.
When Do You Need a Dental Crown?
Several situations may require crown placement to restore optimal oral health and function. Large cavities that have compromised too much of the tooth structure often need crowns rather than fillings. After root canal therapy, teeth become more brittle and typically require crown protection to prevent fractures.
Cracked or broken teeth benefit significantly from crown placement, as the restoration provides structural support and prevents further damage. Severely worn teeth from grinding or acid erosion can be rebuilt and protected with crowns. Additionally, crowns play a crucial role in supporting dental bridges and covering dental implants.
Cosmetic concerns also warrant crown consideration. Teeth with significant discoloration that don’t respond to whitening treatments, misshapen teeth, or those with large, unsightly fillings can be dramatically improved with crown placement.
The Crown Placement Process
Traditional crown placement typically needs two separate appointments. During the first visit, we examine your tooth thoroughly and take detailed impressions. The tooth is prepped by removing any decay and reshaping it to accommodate the crown. A temporary crown protects the prepared tooth while your permanent restoration is crafted in a dental laboratory.
At your second appointment, we remove the temporary crown and carefully fit your permanent restoration. We check the bite, make any necessary adjustments, and permanently cement the crown in place.
However, our practice offers an advanced alternative through CEREC same-day dental crowns. This allows us to design, create, and position your crown in one visit, eliminating the need for temporary crowns and multiple appointments.
Types of Dental Crowns
Different crown materials offer various advantages depending on your specific needs and preferences. Porcelain crowns provide excellent aesthetics, making them ideal for front teeth. They resist staining and closely mimic the translucency of natural tooth enamel.
Ceramic crowns offer similar aesthetic benefits while providing exceptional durability. These metal-free restorations are perfect for patients with metal sensitivities and work well for both front and back teeth.
Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns blend the strength of metal with the natural appearance of porcelain. The metal substructure delivers durability, while the porcelain exterior ensures a realistic look.
Gold and other metal alloys offer superior strength and longevity, making them excellent choices for back teeth where aesthetics are less critical. These crowns require less tooth preparation and are very durable.
Caring for Your Dental Crown
Proper care ensures your crown provides years of reliable service. Keep excellent oral hygiene by brushing twice daily with toothpaste and flossing around the crown. Pay particular attention to the area where the crown meets your natural tooth, as this junction can accumulate plaque and bacteria.
Do not chew on ice, pens, or fingernails or other hard objects, which can damage both crowns and natural teeth. If you grind your teeth, wear a custom nightguard to protect your investment.
Routine checkups and cleanings allow us to monitor your crown’s condition and address any issues before they become serious problems. Professional cleanings clear plaque and tartar that home care might miss.
Benefits of Choosing Elite Dental Aesthetics
Our commitment to quality over quantity means you get personalized attention and meticulous care throughout your crown treatment. Dr. Adams takes the time to understand your unique needs and preferences, ensuring your crown not only functions properly but also enhances your smile’s appearance.
Our advanced dental technology includes CBCT imaging for precise treatment planning and CEREC technology for same-day crown fabrication. This means fewer appointments, greater convenience, and exceptional results.
We focus on conservative treatment approaches, keeping as much of your natural tooth structure as possible while providing the strongest, most durable restoration. Our attention to detail ensures proper fit, comfortable bite, and natural appearance.
Restore Your Smile with Confidence at Elite Dental Aesthetics
Dental crowns represent an excellent investment in your oral health and overall well-being. They restore function, protect damaged teeth, and can dramatically improve your smile’s appearance. With good care, crowns last many years, providing reliable protection and natural-looking results.
Don’t let damaged or weakened teeth compromise your oral health or confidence. Contact our office today at (775) 200-1956 to schedule an appointment to learn how dental crowns can restore your smile. Our experienced team at Elite Dental Aesthetics will deliver the highest quality care in a comfortable, welcoming atmosphere where your oral health and satisfaction are our top priorities.