Dental Crown
Milwaukie, OR
A dental crown is a custom-made cap placed over a damaged or weakened tooth. Crowns restore the appearance, strength, and function of a tooth while also protecting it from further damage. They are also used in dental bridges and placed on dental implants to complete the restoration. The procedure is straightforward and usually requires two visits. Crowns can be made from different materials, each offering unique levels of durability and appearance.
While the average lifespan of a crown ranges from 10 to 30 years, results vary depending on material and oral health habits. Some crowns may wear out sooner, while others can last a lifetime. Maintaining good dental hygiene and attending regular checkups is essential for long-lasting results. To learn more, schedule a consultation at Sue Walker Dentistry.
Why Would You Need a Dental Crown?
Crowns are versatile and serve many purposes in dentistry. When creating a dental bridge, crowns are placed on the surrounding teeth to act as anchors for the bridge. For dental implants, a crown is attached to the abutment, often made from porcelain-fused-to-metal for strength and a natural look. Crowns are also recommended for teeth weakened by decay or fractures. They reinforce the tooth, restore function, and protect against further damage.
Types of Dental Crowns
Crowns can be crafted from several materials, each with its own advantages.
Stainless Steel Crowns
Stainless steel crowns are commonly used as temporary crowns or for children’s primary teeth. These crowns naturally fall out with the child’s tooth.
Porcelain Crowns
Porcelain crowns are highly popular for their lifelike appearance, blending seamlessly with natural teeth. While durable, they can be more prone to chipping than other types.
Metal Crowns
Metal crowns are made from various metals or alloys. Gold crowns are especially valued for their durability, biocompatibility, and resistance to corrosion. Some alloys may cause allergic reactions, so material choice is important.
Temporary Crowns
Temporary crowns are usually made in the dental office from composite resin. They protect the tooth until a permanent crown is ready. While affordable and color-matched to teeth, resin crowns wear down more quickly and are more prone to fractures.
Installing a Crown
The crown process typically takes two appointments. At the first visit, the dentist prepares the tooth and takes impressions. An X-ray is often performed to evaluate the roots and surrounding bone. If the tooth’s pulp or nerve is damaged, a root canal may be required before crown placement. The tooth is numbed, reshaped, and, if necessary, built up with filling material to provide a stable base. An impression of the prepared tooth and the surrounding bite is then sent to a dental lab, where the permanent crown is fabricated. A temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth in the meantime. At the second appointment, the temporary crown is removed, and the permanent crown is cemented into place. The dentist will make final adjustments to ensure it fits comfortably and aligns properly with your bite. If you are considering a dental crown or would like to schedule a checkup, contact 971-447-4385