Clear Aligners

What Are Dental Crowns?

A crown is a tooth-shaped “cap” that is placed over a tooth to cover it and restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. It fully encases the visible area of the tooth above the gum line. When a crown is adhered in place, it will fully cover the portion of the tooth that sits above the gum line. Because of this, it is sometimes referred to as an “indirect restoration.” The crowns can be made of a variety of materials, including porcelain, ceramic, resin, or metal alloys. Your dentist can help you choose which material is best for your tooth.

What Are the Benefits of Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns are a common restorative dentistry treatment that can improve a number of problems affecting the teeth, including chipped or broken teeth, cavities, and discoloration. When cemented into place, these restorations cover the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gum line, restoring both the health and aesthetics of the tooth. 

In addition to improving the appearance of a tooth, treatment with dental crowns can also improve the function of damaged teeth by providing increased strength and resilience to the tooth structure. This helps to prevent breakage in the future, which can contribute to further tooth loss. By addressing problems before they become severe, patients can help prevent the need for more extensive dental treatment in the future.

How Are Dental Crowns Applied?

A crown is a cap that is placed over a tooth to reinforce strength and appearance. In order to prepare the tooth for a crown, it is reduced in size so that the crown can fit over it. Your dentist will prepare the tooth by filing it down and buffing it to make room for the crown. Then an impression of the tooth and surrounding teeth is taken and sent to the lab, where the final restoration is made. In the meantime, a temporary crown will be placed over the prepared tooth. When the permanent crown is ready, it will be cemented to the prepared tooth.

How Do I Know if I Need a Dental Crown?

A crown is a type of cap that covers the entire tooth, and it’s typically recommended when your tooth is severely damaged or decayed. By fitting over the entire surface of your damaged tooth, a crown helps prevent bacteria from reaching the vulnerable inner part of your tooth and spreading infection throughout your mouth. In addition, crowns can also restore normal function to your teeth by making them stronger and more able to chew. For these reasons, many dentists recommend getting a dental crown when repairing a tooth that’s damaged by decay or injury rather than getting an extraction. 

To find out more about the dental services offered at Solace Dental, call (630) 759-3595 or schedule an online consultation. You can also visit us at 287 N Weber Rd, Bolingbrook, IL, 60490.