What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers the entire visible surface of a damaged or weakened tooth, restoring its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are one of the most versatile and commonly used restorations in dentistry. At our Wayne, NJ dental practice, Dr. Asmahan Khater uses high-quality crowns to protect compromised teeth, complete implant restorations, and improve the aesthetics of misshapen or severely discolored teeth.
Reasons for Needing a Dental Crown
There are many clinical situations in which a dental crown may be recommended. A tooth that has been severely damaged by decay and cannot be adequately restored with a filling alone may require a crown to protect its remaining structure. Teeth that have been chipped or fractured are often crowned to prevent the damage from worsening and to allow the patient to chew comfortably. Following a root canal procedure, a crown is typically placed to seal and protect the treated tooth.
Crowns are also used to anchor a dental bridge in place and to cap a dental implant post, completing the implant restoration. Patients in Wayne, NJ, who have teeth that are significantly misshapen or discolored, and who have not achieved satisfactory results through other cosmetic treatments, may opt for porcelain crowns to create a natural-looking, aesthetically pleasing smile.
What to Expect During the Crown Procedure
The dental crown procedure at our Wayne office generally involves two appointments. At the first visit, Dr. Khater will numb the area with a local anesthetic, remove any decay, and shape the tooth to create space for the crown. She then takes an impression of the prepared tooth and surrounding teeth and sends it to a dental laboratory. Dr. Khater will place a temporary crown to cover and protect the tooth until your permanent crown is ready.
During the second appointment, Dr. Khater removes the temporary crown and checks the permanent crown for fit, color, and bite alignment. Once Dr. Khater is satisfied with the result, she permanently cements the crown in place. Same-day crowns using CAD/CAM technology may be available in select cases, allowing the entire process to be completed in a single visit.
Types of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are available in several materials, each with its own set of advantages. Porcelain crowns offer the most natural appearance and are ideal for front teeth. Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns combine the aesthetic appeal of porcelain with the strength of a metal substructure. All-ceramic and zirconia crowns are both strong and highly aesthetic, making them a popular choice for both front and back teeth. Metal crowns, made from gold or other alloys, are the most durable option and are sometimes recommended for back teeth where strength is the primary concern. Dr. Khater will help you select the material that best balances aesthetics, durability, and cost for your unique situation at our Wayne, NJ dental practice.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
Do you have extensive damage or decay? Schedule your appointment with Dr. Asmahan Khater or Dr. Hammah Matalkah today! You can fill out our convenient online Appointment Request Form or call our office at (973) 845-6133. Our friendly team is here to help you every step of the way on your journey to a healthier, more beautiful smile.
