Wellington Office:
Strengthening and Restoring Your Smile
Dental crowns are cosmetic restorations used to restore and strengthen a damaged or weakened tooth. They are commonly used for broken, worn, or decayed teeth that require additional support and protection.
Crowns fully cover the portion of your tooth above the gum line, effectively acting as a new outer surface for the tooth. They are cemented onto the tooth, providing long-term strength and durability.
Materials for Crowns
Crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including:
- Porcelain: Preferred for its natural appearance, as it mimics the translucency of natural teeth and is highly durable.
- Metal: Known for its strength and longevity, metal crowns are often used in the back of the mouth where the pressure from chewing is greatest.
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal: Combining the best of both worlds, this option offers strength with a natural look.
When Are Crowns Needed?
Crowns are recommended when there isn’t enough tooth structure remaining to support a filling. Unlike fillings, which are placed directly into the cavity, crowns are custom-made in a dental laboratory based on impressions of your tooth.
If you have a tooth that is severely decayed, cracked, or damaged, a crown may be the best option to restore its function and appearance.
The Crown Creation Process
The process for creating a crown begins with taking an impression of your tooth, which allows a dental laboratory technician to analyze your bite and jaw movements. Using this information, the crown is crafted to fit your tooth perfectly. The goal is to ensure that, once placed, your bite and jaw movements function normally, providing comfort and optimal performance.