A Reliable Solution for Severe Dental Issues
Crowns are a popular dental procedure in Tampa, Wesley Chapel, Citrus Park, Carrollwood, Lakeland, and New Port Richey that many oral health care professionals recommend to patients to correct a number of imperfections and conditions in the mouth. Dental crowns can be used in both restorative dentistry procedures as well as for cosmetic purposes. For example, crowns are an excellent choice for patients who have a weak or damaged tooth that requires reinforcement to a bridge, a tooth that is extremely discolored or cracked, or even a misshapen or crooked tooth. Dental crowns can be made from a variety of materials. Our dedicated team at Advanced Dental Arts in Tampa, Wesley Chapel, Citrus Park, Carrollwood, Lakeland, and New Port Richey works closely with each and every patient to ensure we select the best treatment option for you.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a fixed dental prosthetic that looks, feels, and works just like a real tooth. Essentially, a crown can be described as a “cap” or cover for your tooth. They can be fitted over real teeth or implants, and are permanently attached to the tooth to improve its overall appearance, shape, or structure. Crowns can be made of materials such as porcelain, gold or metal alloys, ceramic, composite resin, acrylic, or a combination of these. Each is best for different types of teeth and locations; for example, porcelain may be best for front teeth due to its ability to replicate natural tooth enamel, whereas metal alloys are stronger and often recommended for back teeth, like molars. Crowns are ideal for patients who have any of the following oral issues:
- A dental implant that needs to be covered
- A tooth that is severely cracked, chipped, weakened, or decayed
- Teeth that are missing and require a bridge
- A badly discolored or poorly shaped tooth
- A cavity that is too large for a filling
What You Can Expect From Dental Crowns
The process of dental crowns typically requires two to three dental visits, during which a mold will be made of the tooth being crowned. Your teeth may need to be filled or filed down depending on your individual needs, and then you will be fitted with a temporary crown while the permanent one is being made to fit your unique tooth structure.
Once the permanent crowns have been placed, they may take some time getting used to. However, after you become accustomed to the way they feel and look in your mouth, you will barely be able to notice them! Crowns are intended to function just like a normal tooth, allowing you to comfortably eat, talk, smile, and drink without experiencing any discomfort.