Crowns Specialist

What are dental crowns?

A dental crown is a restoration that preserves and protects a damaged tooth. Crowns have been around for decades, but advancements in technology have created crowns that are far more durable and natural-looking than previous versions. 

One way to think about dental crowns is as a cap or cover for your tooth. Dr. Patel preserves as much of your natural tooth tissue as possible, which, in turn, preserves the health of the underlying bone tissue. 

Park Place Smiles uses zirconia dental crowns. These crowns are metal-free, so they’re great for people with metal allergies. 

What dental issues can a crown address?

There are many uses for dental crowns. During your exam at Park Place Smiles, Dr. Patel examines your teeth and discusses all available treatment options, including a custom dental crown. 

Some of the dental issues a crown can treat include teeth that are:

• Cracked
• Chipped
• Weakened by a large filling or multiple treatments
• Discolored
• Misshapen
• Worn down

Dental crowns are also the visible portion of dental implants. In this case, the entire “tooth” portion is an artificial material that connects to the metal post portion of the implant.

Crowns also cover and protect a tooth after a root canal procedure. 

In cases where a large cavity has destroyed significant tooth tissue, a large filling is not the best option, but a dental crown can cover and protect the tooth.  

What are the steps to get a dental crown?

Getting your new crown requires a few steps. Once you and Dr. Patel agree that a crown is the right course of action, you have the initial preparatory work. 

Dr. Patel removes a small portion of your natural tooth tissue to make room for the crown. She completes impressions or digital imaging to determine the exact measurements and contouring of the tooth. 

That information is sent to the lab that manufactures your custom crown. Then, Dr. Patel places a temporary crown over your tooth to protect it until your crown is ready. 

When you return to the office, Dr. Patel checks the crown for shape, color, and fit before cementing it into place. She can make minor adjustments to ensure a good bite and comfortable fit. That completes the restoration, and you simply brush and floss the crown as part of your dental hygiene routine. 

Learn more about dental crowns and other restoration options during a one-on-one consultation at Park Place Smiles. Call the office to schedule an appointment or request an appointment online today.