Our Denver prosthodontist may recommend a dental crown to restore a tooth that has sustained damage from decay, cracking or other problems. These “teeth caps” cover the entire visible portion of your teeth, giving you back a picture-perfect smile as well as preventing any additional damage from occurring.
What Are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are custom-made restorations that cover the entire surface of a tooth. They are designed to restore the shape, size, strength, and appearance of a tooth that has been damaged, decayed, or is aesthetically unpleasing. Teeth caps may be made from several different materials, including porcelain, metal, or a combination of the two. Porcelain crowns are particularly popular, as they mimic the natural appearance of teeth while providing durability and strength for the treated tooth.
The Dental Crown Process
The process of getting a dental crown typically involves two to three visits to our office. During the first visit, the tooth is examined and prepared. This involves reshaping the tooth to ensure a proper fit for the crown and taking impressions to create the custom crown. A temporary crown may be placed to protect the tooth while the permanent crown is being made. At the following visit, the temporary crown is removed, and the permanent crown is adjusted as needed and then cemented in place, restoring the tooth to its natural function and appearance.
Here at Cherry Creek Restorative Dentistry, we feature an in-house dental lab as well as advanced CAD/CAM technology, which can reduce the time you spend waiting for your final crown to be completed. In fact, we may even be able to complete your entire treatment in a single visit! Our Denver prosthodontist will discuss the timeline of your treatment with you during your initial consultation.
Benefits of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns offer several benefits, making them a popular choice for restoring damaged teeth. Crowns work to:
- Improve the appearance of your teeth, bringing back confidence in your smile.
- Restore the functionality of damaged teeth, allowing more normal eating and speaking.
- Protect your remaining tooth structure from further damage or decay.
- Offer a long-lasting solution – when properly cared for, crowns can last for many years.
- Provide a versatile solution – crowns may be used to restore damaged teeth, complete a root canal treatment, cap a dental implant, and improve misshapen or unsightly teeth, among other functions.
Schedule An Appointment
Give us a call today at 720-792-8227 to make an appointment with Dr. Nate Chertok or Dr. Brian Aguirre and learn more about dental crowns in Denver, Colorado.
FAQ
What are the main benefits of getting dental crowns compared to other restorative treatments?
Dental crowns offer a robust solution for restoring damaged or decayed teeth. They provide strength, protection and improved appearance. Crowns can also help preserve the natural tooth structure, prevent further damage and enhance your smile by covering imperfections.
How do dental crowns enhance the function and appearance of my teeth?
Dental crowns restore the shape, size and strength of damaged teeth. They improve function by allowing you to bite and chew normally. Aesthetically, crowns can be matched to the color of your natural teeth, creating a seamless and attractive appearance, effectively covering chips, cracks or discoloration.
Can dental crowns address issues like severe decay or large fillings?
Yes, dental crowns are an excellent solution for teeth with severe decay or large fillings. They provide complete coverage, protecting the remaining tooth structure and preventing further decay. Crowns can also restore the tooth’s shape and function when a filling is not sufficient.
What is the process for getting a dental crown and how long does it take?
Getting a dental crown typically involves two visits. During the first visit, we prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping it to fit the crown. An impression is taken to create a custom crown and a temporary crown is placed. At the second visit, the temporary crown is removed and the permanent crown is cemented in place. The entire process usually takes a few weeks.
How should I care for my dental crown to ensure its longevity?
Caring for a dental crown involves maintaining good oral hygiene. Avoid biting on hard objects like ice or pens and if you grind your teeth, consider wearing a night guard to protect the crown.
Are dental crowns a permanent solution and can they be replaced if needed?
Dental crowns are designed to be a long-lasting solution, typically lasting 10-15 years or longer with proper care. While they are not permanent, they can be replaced if they become damaged or worn over time. We will evaluate the condition of the crown and recommend replacement when necessary.