Dental Crowns

A broken, discolored, or misshapen tooth can have a lasting impact on your smile, affecting your confidence. For a permanent solution to single-tooth restoration, the go-to option is repairing it with a full coverage dental crown.

What is a Dental Crown?

A crown, essentially a cap, is placed atop a tooth and can be crafted from various materials, with ceramics and metals being the most common choices, or a combination of both. This cap is then securely cemented in place, providing a permanent fix for the underlying tooth.

What is the process of getting a Dental Crown?

The process of obtaining a dental crown typically spans two distinct visits to our office.

During the initial visit, the crown undergoes reduction or preparation, eliminating sharp breaks and addressing any leaky or damaged fillings. Utilizing advanced 3D imaging technology, we scan your mouth without the discomfort of goopy impression materials. The scan is promptly sent to our labs for optimal results. At the end of this visit, your dentist discusses the new shape, color, and materials for the crown. A temporary hard acrylic crown is placed, safeguarding the tooth from damage or sensitivity until the final visit.

The second visit involves the removal of the temporary crown and the cementation of the final product. This step is typically swift, with instantly noticeable results.

What are Dental Crowns made from?

There are many types of materials for dental crowns and they all have their indications for use:

Porcelain Ceramic Crowns

The most commonly placed at Liberty Dental Centre Bowmanville, porcelain ceramic crowns emerge as a robust and aesthetic option. Positioned as the premier choice for front teeth and those visible during smiling, their strength and visual appeal make them an optimal selection.

Gold Crowns

Gold is a durable option with an extensive track record of success. With proper care, they can last a long-time and the robustness to withstand even the most vigorous clenching. Commonly employed at the back, where aesthetic concerns are less pronounced, and chewing forces exert their strongest impact, gold crowns are a reliable choice.

Porcelain-fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns

Combining the esthetics of porcelain with the strength of metal, PFM crowns find their niche in the back teeth, where heightened strength is essential. While the reliability of PFM crowns is well-documented, it’s important to note the potential drawbacks, such as porcelain fracturing and the visibility of metal. This type of crown, while historically significant, has seen a decrease in placement due to advancements in stronger porcelain ceramics and more precise digital scanning methods.

In summary, the world of crown materials offers a spectrum of choices, each carefully aligned with specific dental needs. From porcelain ceramic’s elegance to gold’s durability and the hybrid strength of PFM crowns, critical decision-making is key to achieving optimal dental outcomes.