Dental Crowns

What is a Dental Crown?

Dental crowns are natural-looking, tooth-shaped caps that cover a damaged or missing tooth, restoring a full and beautiful smile. Dentists cement these caps into place to provide both strong and visibly appealing replacements for natural teeth. Crowns are usually necessary when the tooth is broken down to the point where a filling will not be effective. Dental crowns are a very reliable solution for major dental problems that have resulted in a severely damaged or missing tooth.

Why choose a crown?

Rear teeth that hold large fillings are often prone to developing hairline cracks on their surface. Placing crowns on these teeth can relieve pain and restore full dental function. In front teeth, stains or chipping may cause embarrassment or older fillings may weaken the structure of the tooth. Porcelain crowns can provide more support than porcelain veneers. In teeth with root canal fillings, crowns can protect against breakage.

dental crown Benefits

Crowns provide a strong, sturdy, aesthetically pleasing replacement that can tolerate the same pressures as a regular tooth, letting patients enjoy the convenience of eating, speaking and smiling without any difficulties. A dental crown can also be used in conjunction with bridges and dental implants. Other benefits of dental crowns may include:

• Holding a cracked tooth together to prevent further damage
• Covering and supporting a tooth with a large filling
• Cover discolored or misshapen teeth
• Restoring a broken tooth

types of dental crowns

There are several different methods of crown restoration, each using a different crown material. Additionally, the different materials used for crown restorations each come with their own benefits. Different types of crown material include:

• Metal
• Resin
• Ceramic
• Porcelain
• Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal or PFM

the dental crown procedure

The dental crown process typically takes place in two appointments. At the first appointment, Dr. Roberts or Dr. Sirota prepare the tooth numbing, then by filing or reshaping, so the crown can fit in securely and comfortably. Next, our staff will take an impression of the teeth and gums using a paste or putty. Finally, we send the impression to a laboratory to make a custom crown, which usually takes two to three weeks. Patients receive a temporary dental crown until the permanent crown is ready.

At the second appointment, the new crown is inspected for proper fit and tooth color. The temporary crown is then removed and the new one is cemented onto the tooth. At Prosthodontics of New York, we pride ourselves on our advanced technology. Patients have the option to receive CEREC same-day crowns in one convenient appointment. Drs. Roberts and Sirota will discuss the type of crown and timeline of your procedure at your consultation.

dental crown complications

Some patients experience increased sensitivity immediately after the procedure, particularly if the crowned tooth still has a nerve in it. For sensitivity to heat and cold, some patients choose to use toothpaste for sensitive teeth. Other complications that may occur with dental crowns are:

• Pain or Sensitivity When Biting – This usually means that the crown is too high on the tooth. If this is the case, our dentists will be able to adjust the crown.
• Chip in a Porcelain Crown – Resin can be used to repair the remaining crown. If the chipping is extensive, patients may need an entirely new crown.
• Loose Dental Crown – If the cement washes out from underneath the crown, bacteria can then leak in and cause decay.
• Missing Dental Crown – if the dental crown falls off entirely. Our dentists may be able to replace or create a new crown as necessary.

Schedule a Consultation

If you think you may need a dental crown, call 212.758.9690 to schedule a consultation at Prosthodontics of New York. Our practice serves Manhattan, New York City, and surrounding areas.