Dental Crowns

Dental Crown Introduction

Looking for a dentist in Canby, Oregon that can fix your tooth with a crown? A dental crown is a custom-made restoration that covers and protects a damaged or weakened tooth. Crowns are designed to restore strength, function, and appearance while preserving as much natural tooth structure as possible.

When a tooth is cracked, heavily filled, worn down, or treated with a root canal, a crown can provide long-term protection and durability.

What Is a Dental Crown and How Does It Work?

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that fits securely over a prepared natural tooth. The crown restores the outer structure of the tooth, protecting it from fracture while allowing normal chewing and function.

To place a crown, the tooth is carefully reshaped to create space for the restoration. An impression or digital scan is taken, and the crown is custom fabricated to match the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth. Once placed, the crown fully covers the visible portion of the tooth above the gumline.

Modern crowns are often made from strong, natural-looking materials such as ceramic or porcelain, providing both durability and esthetics.

Dental Crown Procedure

The crown process typically involves one or two visits, depending on the technology used.

Evaluation and Diagnosis: The tooth is examined to determine whether a crown is the appropriate treatment.
Tooth Preparation: The damaged portion of the tooth is removed, and the tooth is reshaped.
Impression or Digital Scan: A precise model is taken to ensure a comfortable, accurate fit.
Temporary Crown: A temporary crown may be placed while the final crown is fabricated.
Final Placement: The custom crown is bonded securely into place and adjusted for proper bite and comfort.

Alternatives to Dental Crowns

Depending on the condition of the tooth, alternatives may include:

Dental fillings
Onlays or inlays
Tooth extraction
Monitoring minor cracks

A crown is typically recommended when a tooth requires full coverage for strength and protection.

Risks and Considerations

Dental crowns are a common and reliable restoration. Potential considerations include:

Temporary sensitivity after placement
Crown loosening or debonding over time
Wear or chipping of ceramic materials
Rare need for root canal treatment if the tooth becomes symptomatic

Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits help maximize crown longevity.

FAQ's - Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Crowns

What is the step-by-step process of getting a dental crown?

At the first visit, the dentist will numb the area around the tooth, remove decay (if necessary), build up deficient areas of the tooth (if necessary), and shape the tooth for a future crown/cap. A digital scan or impression is taken to create a custom crown. The scan/impression is then sent to the lab. In the meantime, a temporary crown protects your tooth while you wait 1.5-2 weeks for the crown to be made.
At the final visit, your dentist checks the fit, bite, and appearance before permanently cementing the crown.

How do I take care of my crown?

To care for your dental crown, brush twice daily with toothpaste and floss around the crown to prevent decay and gum disease. When flossing, floss past the contact, and then pull through the side to prevent pulling off your crown. Avoid chewing ice, hard candy, or other hard objects that could damage your crown. If you grind your teeth at night, consider wearing a nightguard. Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and exams to keep your crown and surrounding teeth healthy for years to come.

How long do dental crowns last?

With proper care, crowns can last many years. Longevity depends on oral hygiene, bite forces, and habits.

Will my crown look natural?

Yes. Crowns are custom-designed to blend with surrounding teeth in color and shape.

Is getting a crown painful?

The procedure is typically painless with local anesthesia. Mild soreness afterward is temporary.

Can a crowned tooth still get cavities?

Yes. While the crown itself cannot decay, the underlying tooth structure at the edges of the crown or near the gumline can develop cavities if not properly maintained.

What are dental crowns made of?

Dental crowns are typically made from zirconia, ceramic, porcelain, metal alloys, or a combination of materials. The best material depends on the tooth’s location, durability needs, and aesthetic preferences.

Schedule a Dental Crown Consultation

If you have a damaged or weakened tooth, a dental crown may help restore strength, comfort, and appearance. Our team is happy to evaluate your tooth and discuss your treatment options.

Call our office or request an appointment online to schedule your consultation.

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