Crowns

What are dental crowns?

A dental crown is a cap that covers a weak or misshapen tooth. Crowns are made from metal, porcelain, or porcelain fused to metal. Crowns that combine metal and porcelain are used most often because they offer strength, durability, and a natural appearance. Dental crowns are resistant to staining and decay and with proper care can last for many years.

What are the uses of dental crowns?

Dr. Saxena uses dental crowns for both restorative and cosmetic purposes.

She applies crowns to teeth that are broken or severely chipped. She also uses them to cover teeth that had large cavities that don’t have enough natural tooth material left after removing the decay. They’re also used to cover teeth after root canals to provide additional support and strength.

Dr. Saxena also uses crowns to cover teeth that are unevenly shaped or sized compared to their neighbors to create a uniform smile. She also applies crowns to severely discolored teeth.

How are crowns installed?

In most cases, Dr. Saxena applies crowns in two appointments. During your first appointment, she prepares your tooth for the crown. She removes a thin layer of tooth enamel so the crown can fit securely over your tooth and flush against your other teeth and gums.

She makes an impression of your tooth and takes digital pictures that are sent to a dental lab where a crown is custom-made to fit your tooth precisely and match the neighboring teeth. Before you go home, she fits a temporary crown to protect your teeth while your permanent crown is made.

Then at your second appointment, Dr. Saxena removes the temporary crown and fits your permanent crown onto your tooth. She checks the fit and your bite before permanently bonding the crown to your tooth.

How should I take care of my crowns?

Taking care of dental crowns is easy. You simply brush and floss them like your natural teeth. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends brushing for two minutes, twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive toothpaste. You should also floss your teeth at least once a day.

While crowns are resistant to decay, you still need to attend your routine dental exams and cleanings so Dr. Saxena and her team can take care of your natural teeth and monitor your dental health.

Call or schedule an appointment today to discover if dental crowns are right for you.