A damaged, weakened, or heavily restored tooth may need additional protection to restore its function and appearance. A dental crown is a custom-made restoration that covers the visible portion of a tooth, helping protect it while restoring its shape, strength, and appearance.
At Press & Berman in Clifton, NJ, we can evaluate your oral health and discuss whether a dental crown may be an appropriate treatment for your tooth.
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A dental crown, sometimes called a cap, is a custom-made restoration designed to fit over a damaged or weakened tooth. It covers the visible portion of the tooth above the gumline.
Crowns can be made from several materials, including tooth-colored ceramic, porcelain, metal, or other dental materials. The appropriate material depends on the location of the tooth, its function, your oral health, and your treatment goals.
A dental crown may be recommended when a tooth needs more protection or restoration than a filling or bonding can provide. Crowns may be used for teeth that are:
Your dental professional will evaluate the condition of your tooth before recommending a crown.
Schedule a ConsultationWhat to Expect
Getting a dental crown typically involves several stages.
Your tooth and surrounding gums are examined to determine whether a crown is appropriate. Any underlying dental or periodontal concerns may need to be addressed before restoration.
The tooth is carefully prepared to create space for the crown and provide an appropriate surface for the restoration. An impression or digital scan may be taken to create a crown that fits your tooth and blends with surrounding teeth. A temporary restoration may be placed while your permanent crown is being made.
Once the permanent crown is ready, it is fitted and checked for appearance, comfort, and bite. It is then securely bonded to the prepared tooth.
A tooth that has undergone root canal treatment may become more susceptible to fracture because of the amount of tooth structure that has been affected. In certain cases, a dental crown may be recommended after root canal treatment to provide additional protection. Your dentist can determine whether a crown is appropriate based on the condition of the tooth.
Dental crowns are designed to provide long-term restoration, but their lifespan varies from patient to patient. Factors such as oral hygiene, bite forces, tooth location, diet, and the health of the surrounding gums can affect how long a crown lasts.
Regular dental examinations and good oral hygiene can help maintain both your crown and the supporting tooth.
Benefits & Care
For appropriate patients, dental crowns can restore and protect damaged teeth. A crowned tooth should be cared for much like your natural teeth. If you have a history of periodontal disease, maintaining healthy gums is especially important. Your dental professional can recommend a personalized maintenance schedule.
If you have a damaged, weakened, or severely worn tooth, a dental crown may be an option for restoring its function and appearance. At Press & Berman in Clifton, NJ, we can evaluate your tooth and surrounding oral tissues and discuss whether a dental crown or another treatment may be appropriate for you. Contact our office to schedule an appointment and learn more about your restorative dental options.
Schedule an AppointmentThe tooth is typically treated with appropriate anesthesia during preparation. Some temporary sensitivity may occur after the procedure.
The process depends on the type of crown, the condition of the tooth, and the laboratory or digital workflow being used. Your dental professional can explain the expected timeline during your consultation.
A crown may help protect and restore certain damaged or cracked teeth. However, the appropriate treatment depends on the location and severity of the crack.
Yes. Tooth-colored materials can be used to create a crown designed to blend with the surrounding teeth. The appropriate material depends on your individual situation.
Continue brushing and flossing regularly, avoid using your teeth to bite hard objects, and attend recommended dental examinations and cleanings to help maintain your crown and oral health.
