Dental Crown Uses By Louis Buono on August 28, 2012

The teeth are incredibly strong, but they are constantly subjected to daily pressures that often contribute to the development of dental flaws. Bacteria and acid within the mouth can lead to erosion, decay, and wear in the teeth. Another side effect of decay, wear, and erosion is the unattractive appearance that often results in teeth affected by these dental problems. These damaged teeth may also experience sensitivity. These dental imperfections can result in pain when eating and drinking and may also rob you of your self-confidence when smiling and talking. To restore the health and aesthetics of your smile, Long Island cosmetic dentist Louis J. Buono may recommend dental crowns.

What Is a Dental Crown?

Dental crowns are “caps” placed over the visible portion of a tooth, including below and at the gum line, to restore its appearance, size, shape, and strength. They are designed to provide protection and restore strength to teeth that are damaged or decayed. For our patients in Long Island, dental crowns are comprised of an incredibly strong, high-quality porcelain material.

Dental Crowns Uses

Patients with major tooth damage or decay and who also have sufficient tooth structure to support a crown are ideal candidates for dental crowns. Because dental crowns are incredibly versatile, they may be used:

To reinforce teeth that are weakened from decay
To reinforce teeth that are affected by chips or cracks
To preserve the healthy tooth structures found within decayed or damaged teeth
To preserve healthy tooth structures after root canal therapy
To cover the entire surface of a less than perfect tooth, such as teeth that are misshaped or discolored
To protect teeth at risk of damage
To support dental bridges and to top dental implants

Dental Crowns: Placement

Because dental crowns are custom-made, the procedure requires two visits to our dental office. During your first visit, we will take x-rays of your teeth so that we can see the roots and bones of the teeth. This information will determine whether the damage is extensive enough to require root canal therapy. In order to make room for the dental crowns, the teeth are filed down along the sides and front surfaces. An impression of the teeth is then made. This impression acts as a model from which the dental crown will be made. Temporary crowns will be placed to protect the teeth while you wait for your permanent crowns to arrive, usually two to three weeks later. During the second visit, we will ensure the fit and color are correct before cementing the crowns into place.

Patients with dental imperfections, but who are not experiencing severe damage or decay, may be ideal candidates for porcelain veneers. For our patients in Long Island, porcelain veneers are designed to match the color of the natural teeth and to completely change the appearance of the teeth they cover. They are incredibly versatile and may be used to conceal a multitude of aesthetic flaws in teeth, including gaps between teeth, discoloration, and chips.