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Crowns

A crown is a cover or cap for a damaged tooth that restores it to its normal shape and size. It is used when a tooth has extensive decay or has been fractured. Both the look and function of your crowns are considered when choosing the materials most suitable for you. We consider the tooth location, the position of the gum tissue, the amount of tooth that shows when you smile, the color or shade of the tooth and the function of the tooth. Crowns are made from a number of materials. Gold alloys or non-precious alloys, porcelain or ceramic, acrylic or composite resin or combinations of these materials may be used. Porcelain attached to a durable metal shell is commonly used because of its strength. Crowns made entirely of porcelain may look better; however, they aren't as strong and are not indicted in some circumstances. In the process of making the crown, the porcelain is colored to blend in with your natural teeth.

Usually two visits are involved in placing a crown. The tooth is prepared by removing the outer portion of your tooth to accommodate the thickness of the crown. If the tooth has a filling, part of the material may be left in place to serve as a foundation for the crown. In other cases, to provide a strong foundation a crown buildup is done prior to preparing the tooth for a crown. An impression is made to provide an exact model of the prepared tooth. Our dental laboratory will then make the crown from the model. "Temporary" crowns are placed while the permanent crown is made.

When the permanent crown is ready, the dentist puts it in place and makes necessary adjustments. To see how your crown will look, you can use a large mirror and observe in various types of lighting. When you are satisfied with your appearance, the crown is cemented in place.

Brushing twice a day and cleaning between your teeth daily with floss is especially important when you have crowns.