A crown (or cap) is a covering that encases the entire tooth surface restoring it to its original shape and size. Compared to fillings which just cover a small portion of a tooth, a crown (or cap) encases the entire visible portion of a tooth. Central Park Dentistry employs crowns to repair a cracked tooth, support large fillings, cover badly shaped teeth and protect weak teeth from fracturing. A crown protects and strengthens tooth structure that cannot be restored with fillings or other types of restorations. There are two types of common crowns: metal (specifically, gold) and porcelain. While gold crowns are stronger than porcelain crowns, they are not as cosmetically appealing. Porcelain crowns are still very durable and long lasting. Porcelain is usually the best cosmetic option because once the procedure is completed, no one will be able tell the tooth is different from the other teeth in your mouth. Central Park Dentistry specializes in porcelain crowns for patients in NYC.
Reasons for crowns:
- Broken or fractured teeth.
- Cosmetic enhancement.
- Decayed teeth.
- Fractured fillings.
- Large fillings.
- Tooth has a root canal.
Key Benefits of Porcelain Crowns
- Replaces missing teeth
- Offers support to misshapen teeth or badly broken teeth
- Looks completely natural
- Fixes “smile” and functional chewing problems
- Porcelain crowns are available in a wide variety of shades in order to perfectly color-match them to your existing teeth
What does getting a crown involve?
A crown procedure usually requires two appointments. Prior to the procedure, X-rays may be taken to check the tooth, the roots and the bone surrounding the tooth. The area will be anesthetized, and the tooth will be shaped to make room for the dental crown. Our experts may recommend a metal crown, a porcelain-fused-to-metal crown or a porcelain crown, and the amount of dental enamel removed can vary based on the type of crown being placed.
Your first appointment will include taking several highly accurate molds (or impressions) that will be used to create your custom crown. A mold will also be used to create a temporary crown which will stay on your tooth for approximately two weeks until your new crown is fabricated by a dental laboratory.
While the tooth is numb, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping the surface to properly fit the crown. Once these details are accomplished, your temporary crown will be placed with temporary cement and your bite will be checked to ensure you are biting properly.
At your second appointment, your temporary crown will be removed, the tooth will be cleaned, and your new crown will be carefully placed to ensure the spacing and bite are accurate.
You will be given care instructions and encouraged to have regular dental visits to check your new crown.
Dental Crowns (caps) require no more care than the rest of your teeth–just a simple regimen of brushing twice daily and flossing once daily. Crowns do not decay, but the teeth below them can, which is why it is important to continue to maintain good dental hygiene.
Central Park Dentistry helps dental patients throughout NYC to achieve optimal oral heath through cosmetic and restorative dentistry, regular checkups and cleanings. Contact us today to schedule your consultation appointment and learn more about metal and porcelain crowns.