Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are custom-made caps that fit over damaged or decayed teeth to restore their shape, size, strength, and appearance. They are typically used when a tooth is too weak or damaged for a filling, or after root canal treatment to protect the remaining tooth structure. Crowns can be made of alloys, gold, porcelain, or resin, and are designed to match the color of your natural teeth. 

Types of Crowns

At Gentle Dental, we offer various types of dental crowns, giving you the confidence to show off your smile once again, including:

• Porcelain: Natural-looking, ideal for front teeth
• Ceramic: Durable and aesthetic, suitable for both front and back teeth
• Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM): Strong, natural-looking, and versatile
• Gold: Extremely durable, best for back teeth with heavy chewing forces

What to Expect

Patients usually require two different appointments to receive a crown. During the first visit, the dentist evaluates your teeth and shapes the tooth to accommodate the crown. They then take a mold and either create the crown on-site using 3D printing or send the mold off to a lab. Patients are usually given temporary caps, which are removed at the following appointment when the permanent crown is placed.

During the final appointment, the dentist removes the temporary crown and thoroughly cleans the tooth. They then carefully fit the permanent crown, checking its alignment and making any necessary adjustments. Once satisfied, the dentist applies dental cement to secure the crown, removing any excess and allowing it to set. A few weeks later, a follow-up appointment ensures the crown's proper fit and comfort, addressing any issues and providing additional care instructions if needed.

After The Procedure

Patients should expect some initial sensitivity after getting a crown, but this should subside within a few weeks. To enhance the comfort and longevity of a crown, we recommend that patients:

• Avoid hard or sticky foods for the first 24 hours
• Be gentle when brushing around the crown area initially
• Use sensitive toothpaste if experiencing temperature sensitivity
• Continue regular oral hygiene practices
• Avoid grinding teeth or using the crowned tooth to open packages
• Attend regular dental check-ups
• Contact your dentist if you experience persistent pain or discomfort

Are Dental Crowns Right For Me?

Dentists typically recommend crowns to:

• Protect weak teeth from breaking or cracking
• Replace especially large fillings when there is little tooth remaining
• Cap teeth that have had root canal therapy
• Restore cracked or broken teeth
• Affix a functional bridge
• Cap dental implants
• Cover stained or oddly shaped teeth