Dental Crowns
We use our teeth every day, so it should come as no surprise that they are always at risk for decay and injury. Thankfully, that’s where quality dentists come in to provide you with a quality, effective dental crowns. This is a common way to save a cracked, chipped, or decaying tooth, so extraction is unnecessary. At Monte Vista Dental, our passion is to ensure you always have what you need to have a healthy, happy, pain-free smile.
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What is a Dental Crown?
Generally, you can catch tooth decay early and treat it with fillings and other procedures, but sometimes the decay has reached the point that it may seriously damage your tooth. In these cases, a dental crown may be necessary to help your tooth function painlessly again.
A dental crown is essentially a “cap” placed over a damaged tooth, allowing it to look and function as a normal tooth. When your tooth has suffered a certain level of decay, a new crown becomes necessary to keep it working appropriately.
What are Dental Crowns made from?
Dental crowns are made from various materials to help them function as an effective cap for your tooth, including metal, porcelain, and resin. During your appointment, our dentists will help you decide which is best for you.
- Metal Crowns–the longest-lasting variety of crowns, metal crowns require only a small amount of adjustment, or shaving-down, from the tooth in question. While these are appropriately durable, they are somewhat conspicuous due to their noticeably metallic look. Most patients prefer these for out-of-sight teeth.
- Porcelain Crowns–when it’s paramount that your crown match your natural tooth color, porcelain crowns are the way to go. Porcelain crowns are almost indistinguishable from your regular tooth, making them optimal for your more visible teeth. These are also preferable for individuals who suffer from a metal allergy. The only downside is that they can be chipped, but this can be avoided with a “compound crown” or a porcelain crown that is fused with metal.
- Resin–resin crowns are a more affordable option that sacrifices little in durability but a bit more in longevity. Generally, a resin crown may need to be replaced after a while. You can even replace them with crowns made of other materials.
How do I Know if Dental Crowns are Right for Me?
Of course, no two patients are in the same situation, and what works for one might not work for another; that’s why we at Monte Vista Dental Group try to assess each case individually to come up with the best way forward. If any of the following apply to you, you may need a dental crown:
- Your tooth has weakened and must be held together.
- Your tooth is worn or broken.
- The tooth around a filling has fallen away.
- Your tooth is misshapen.
- Your tooth is discolored.
- You have recently had a root canal procedure.
Contact us at Monte Vista Dental today. Dr. Cho and Dr. Jeon are specialized, highly trained oral surgeons
What does the procedure entail?
During your initial visit, Dr. Cho and Dr. Jeon will take X-Rays of your tooth to determine if it needs a crown, and if so, what kind. In some cases, a root canal procedure may be necessary to remove decay from the affected tooth.
After this, the tooth is filed down, and an impression is taken. A temporary crown is then placed over your tooth while the impression is sent to a dental lab to create a more permanent tooth.
Once your crown is ready, we will place it over your tooth during your next appointment. Usually, local anesthesia is applied during the procedure.
What can I expect from the recovery process?
Recovery is relatively quick and easy. You can expect some sensitivity around the affected tooth and the surrounding gums. This can be managed with over-the-counter medication and shouldn’t last very long. If you experience any further discomfort, don’t hesitate to let us know.
Most patients can return to their routine immediately after the procedure. Still, make sure you carefully follow proper care and hygiene instructions for your dental crown to ensure it lasts as long as possible.
If you feel you have damaged or decaying teeth, do not hesitate. Set up an appointment at our dentist in Montclair today! We will do everything we can to ensure your smile stays happy, healthy, and pain-free.
