A crown (or cap) is a covering that encases the entire tooth surface restoring it to its original shape and size. A crown protects and strengthens tooth structure that cannot be restored with fillings or other types of restorations.
Although there are several types of crowns, porcelain (tooth colored crown) are the most popular. They are highly durable and will last many years, but like most dental restorations, they may eventually need to be replaced. Porcelain crowns are made to match the shape, size, and color of your teeth giving you a natural, long-lasting beautiful smile.
Reasons For Crowns
- Broken or fractured teeth
- Cosmetic enhancement
- Decayed teeth
- Fractured fillings
- Large fillings
- Tooth has a root canal
What Does Getting A Crown Involve?
A crown procedure usually requires two appointments. Your first appointment will include taking several highly accurate molds (or impressions) that will be used to create your custom crown. A mold will also be used to create a temporary crown which will stay on your tooth for approximately two weeks until your new crown is fabricated by a dental laboratory.
While the tooth is numb, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping the surface to properly fit the crown. Once these details are accomplished, your temporary crown will be placed with temporary cement and your bite will be checked to ensure you are biting properly.
At your second appointment your temporary crown will be removed, the tooth will be cleaned, and your new crown will be carefully placed to ensure the spacing and bite are accurate.
You will be given care instructions and encouraged to have regular dental visits to check your new crown.
How Our Doctor Approaches Crown Treatment
At South Suburban Family Dental in Blue Island, IL, a crown is recommended only when it is genuinely the most appropriate solution for the tooth in question. Our doctor believes strongly in recommending the most conservative treatment that will reliably resolve the problem and protect the tooth for the long term. When a crown is the right answer, every step of the process is explained clearly before treatment begins so patients understand exactly what to expect at each appointment, what the temporary phase involves, and what the final result will look and feel like once the permanent crown is placed.
Our doctor has completed continuing education in restorative dentistry and approaches every crown case with careful attention to fit, bite alignment, and aesthetics, as well as structural integrity. A crown that looks natural and fits the bite correctly is not just more comfortable for the patient as it is more durable and longer lasting than one that was placed without thorough attention to those details. At South Suburban Family Dental, quality and reliability are not optional extras. They are the standard to which every restoration is held.
Caring For Your Crown Long Term
With proper care, a well-placed crown can serve you reliably for many years. A few consistent habits make a meaningful difference in how long your crown performs and how healthy the surrounding tissue remains:
- Brush twice daily and floss carefully around the crown margin where the restoration meets the natural tooth structure at the gumline
- Avoid chewing ice, hard candy, or other very hard foods that place excessive and unnecessary stress on the crown material
- Wear a custom nightguard if you grind or clench during sleep, as the forces generated by bruxism are one of the most significant contributors to premature crown wear and fracture
- Attend regular professional cleanings and check-ups so our team can monitor the crown margin, evaluate the health of the surrounding gum tissue, and identify any early signs of wear or secondary concerns before they become more involved
If you have a tooth that you suspect may need a crown or if you have an existing crown that has been bothering you, the friendly and reliable team at South Suburban Family Dental in Blue Island, IL is here to take a look and give you an honest, straightforward assessment of what your tooth needs. Call our office or book your appointment online today.