Crowns

What is a Crown?

A crown, also called a cap, is a covering that encases the entire tooth surface restoring it to its original shape and size. When a tooth cannot be restored with filling or other procedures, a crown protects and strengthens the tooth structure. Porcelain (tooth-colored) crowns are by far the most popular although there are several types of crowns available. Crowns are highly durable and will last many years, but like most dental restorations, they may eventually need to be replaced. Porcelain crowns are made to match the shape, size, and color or your teeth giving you a natural, long-lasting beautiful smile.

Ask our staff about a newer crown we offer called the Zirconia crown. At Sherwood Family Dentistry, we highly recommend this type of crown for its strength, cosmetic appeal and lifetime guarantee. Zirconia is a synthetic tooth colored material and makes a very natural looking crown. The crowns have translucency and reflect the light much like a natural tooth. They are long-lasting and maintain original shade and color. The traditional porcelain-fused-to-metal crown (PFM) can chip allowing the metal to show through. Over time metal can discolor making the crown more noticeable

Why get a Crown?

Patients choose to get crowns to fix broken, decayed or fractured teeth. They are also used for fractured fillings, cosmetic enhancement or for a tooth that has a root canal.

How does the Procedure Work?

A crown procedure usually requires two appointments. 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, Dr. Chao or Dr. Craw will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping the surface to properly fit the crown. Once they complete their preparation, 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 and cemented to ensure the spacing and bite are accurate