General Dentistry: What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is one of the most popular methods of dental restoration within general dentistry. When a tooth becomes severely damaged due to decay, it is likely that a dental crown can restore the tooth. Want to know more about dental crowns and what they do? We are here to help! In this article, we outline what a dental crown is, how it works and what it can do for your teeth. If you’re considering a dental crown then this information may be useful to you.

General dentistry: what is a dental crown?

General dentists often recommend a dental crown to restore teeth that are in bad shape due to decay, cracking or chipping. They can also be used to replace teeth that are completely missing. Below, we discuss everything that is necessary to know regarding these dental restorations. Read on to find out more!

A dental crown is a cap-like piece made out of various dental materials. These caps are placed over an existing tooth to restore it or a missing tooth to replace it. When used to restore a tooth, they completely cover the existing tooth so that it is no longer vulnerable to decay or damage. However, when a dental crown is used to replace a missing tooth, it works in conjunction with a dental implant or bridge.

Dental crowns are typically made of porcelain, alloy metals, gold or ceramic materials. They are all completely safe and durable, which makes them a great option for tooth restoration or replacement. There are benefits and downfalls to each material, but ultimately, it is best to consult with a general dentist about which material may be most suitable.

The dental crown procedure

During a general dentistry appointment, the dentist will likely go over what the procedure is like so that the patient knows what to expect. A dental crown procedure happens to be one of the most commonly practiced procedures and it is relatively straightforward.

Prior to the actual crown placement, the dentist will make an impression of the tooth that needs the dental crown. The impression will be sent off to a dental lab and the patient will return for another appointment once the crowns have been completed. Some general dentistry practices have access to CAD/CAM technology which can create porcelain crowns on demand, in office.

The general dentist will completely clean the tooth to ensure that there is no bacteria or leftover debris on the existing tooth that could get in the way of the crown placement. Any severely damaged areas will be removed from the tooth prior to placement. Once the tooth has been etched so that the crown fits, a dental cement will be placed. The cement ensures that the dental crown sticks to the existing tooth. Finally, the crown will be gently but securely placed on top of the tooth.

Most of the time, there is some minor sensitivity on or around the tooth after a dental crown procedure. After a few hours, the tooth should be completely functional again, thus allowing for restoration!

Get started today!

Are dental crowns something that you’re considering? Let our team help you. Our general dentists can evaluate you and help determine whether or not a dental crown is for you. Give us a call or stop by our office today so that we can get started!

Request an appointment here: or call Campbell Smile at (408) 379-0851 for an appointment in our Campbell office.

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