Dental Crowns

A crown, or dental cap, is a type of dental restoration which completely caps or encircles a tooth or dental implant. A crown may be needed when a large cavity threatens the health of a tooth. They are typically bonded to the tooth by dental cement.

The Basics.

Perhaps you have a large cavity filling or maybe a tooth that had a root canal. Maybe your tooth is discolored and you want to improve the appearance, but a Veneer wasn’t the right choice for you. Maybe you took a bite on an olive pit a few months ago and the tooth has never felt the same. I think it’s time to consider a crown!

What are they?

Advances in the strength and appearance of porcelain crowns have made them the leading choice in restoring damaged teeth to their former splendor. A tooth that has been damaged by root canal, grinding, decay or fracture is likely to break from the stress of daily use. But a doctor-prescribed porcelain crown strengthens your tooth by providing 360 degrees of coverage.

What to expect?

FIRST APPOINTMENT

At your first appointment with us, we will administer full local anaesthesia for the tooth being treated. We will then prepare the tooth conservatively (1.5 to 2mm to be exact!) to create room for the porcelain crown. After careful assessment of the shape and contour, a 3d scan or impression of the affected tooth will be taken. This putty will allow the lab ceramist to create and calibrate a porcelain crown that looks and feels like your natural tooth.

A temporary crown is created, polished and cemented. During the next two weeks, you’ll want to avoid sticky foods near the treated tooth, so the temporary crown stays put. If the temporary crown dislodges, try to replace it as fast as possible, and come visit us at our office in Williamsburg, Brooklyn if you can’t get it back in. The purpose of temporary crowns is to protect you from sensitivity and keep the gums from rolling over the prepared margins of the tooth.

SECOND APPOINTMENT

During your second visit, the temporary crown will be removed and the final porcelain crown will be tried in and examined for perfection. We will take a dental X-ray to ensure quality fit and aesthetic approval. An adhesive is then applied to the tooth and a cement will be luted onto the interior of the porcelain crown. Any excess cement will be removed. You’ll be provided with all the necessary instruction to take proper care of your new crown!