In Glendale Heights Dental Crowns, dentistry is both an art and a science. Dental crowns are a great illustration of this. A covering that fits over a tooth that is damaged, decayed, or unattractive is called a dental crown or "dental cap." As part of dental bridgework, it can replace a tooth. Although a crown improves the appearance of your teeth, it is not cosmetic.

What Benefits Can a Crown Provide?

Above the gum line, a crown completely covers a tooth. In contrast, a dental veneer only covers the front surface of a tooth and requires the support of a natural tooth structure. Therefore, a crown would be the best option for restoring a tooth without significant form above the gum line. Crowns are virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth when crafted from today's high-tech porcelains (dental ceramics). They can even be made to make a tooth look better than it did before. Porcelain and ceramic crowns offer natural aesthetics and are ideal for visible areas of the mouth. Metal crowns provide exceptional strength, particularly for molars. Zirconia crowns combine strength and aesthetics, making them suitable for front and back teeth. The choice of crown material depends on factors like location, damage severity, and patient preferences.

How is a Crown Made?

Crowning or capping a tooth is vital to maintaining good oral health. Glendale Heights Family Dental recommends two to three visits for a crown or cap. Your tooth is prepared for its new peak at the first visit. In the beginning, it is shaped to fit inside the new cover. Drilling will give the tooth a uniform shape after the area around it is numbed beforehand. For the crown to be stable, the tooth may need to be "built up" with filling material rather than being filed down because there may be very little remaining tooth structure. An impression of your teeth is taken after the tooth has been prepared. The impression materials, which look like putty, are used and sent to the dental lab. The impressions will be used there to create crown-making models of your teeth.

The models will be guided by highly trained lab technicians, who will ensure your new crown is made to fit your bite and look good.

A temporary crown will be bonded to your tooth before you leave the office to safeguard it until the permanent crown is ready. During the second visit, a special light will quickly bond the cement to attach your permanent crown to your tooth.

Crowns need the same careful attention as your natural teeth. Daily brushing and flossing between your birth and restored teeth will help prevent plaque buildup. When you have crowns, keep up with your regular dental cleanings. Wearing a nightguard is an excellent idea to protect your investment and teeth.

Glendale Heights Family Dental offers complimentary consultations to help you weigh the benefits and drawbacks of your choices. Find out more about the advantages of each of the dental implant options. Call Glendale Heights Family Dental at (630) 866 – 6000 to make an appointment immediately!