When you have more advanced cases of tooth decay or infection, or if you have a damaged tooth, then you may need a dental restoration more substantial than a filling. In these situations, your Richfield, MN, dentist may suggest a custom-made dental crown. In today’s blog, we’re looking at how we repair your smiles and the materials we use!
The Reasons We Prescribe a Crown
A dental crown fits over the visible portion of each tooth. They cover everything above the gum line, and for this reason can handle a wide array of cosmetic and restorative concerns. For example, we could prescribe one to repair broken, cracked, or chipped teeth. They can lengthen ones worn down by teeth grinding, or address esthetic issues with the shaped of the tooth. They help treat advanced decay and infection by completing a root canal procedure too. We could also use them to aid in the replacement of one or more missing teeth. They help secure dental bridges, and even restore single tooth dental implants.
Porcelain
For the front-facing ones, which are most visible, we often opt for porcelain. A durable material, porcelain is translucent like tooth enamel too. We can color-match the material to blend with your smile, and the material contains stain resistant properties as well.
PFM
The side and rear teeth must endure greater bite forces and pressure, so they need to be made of a stronger material. Porcelain-fused-to-metal offers the strength of metal, with the lifelike appearance of porcelain. You will still enjoy a restoration that looks natural and blends with your smile.
Zirconia
The strongest material available is zironcia, which can also be color-matched to blend with your smile too! We use these for the side and rear teeth as well, as they can absorb greater levels of bite forces and pressure.
Creating and Placing a Crown
To begin, we will administer a numbing agent to the area undergoing treatment, and the remove outer structure from the tooth. Next, we take a series of detailed images and measurements with advanced digital technology. In a dental lab setting, we will design and craft the finished product. When you return for a second visit, we will check the fit and make any necessary adjustments. The final step involves placing the completed restoration with a powerful bonding agent. With proper care and attention, your new repairs could last for decades to come!
Your Richfield, MN Dentist’s Office Offers Restorative Dentistry
At our Richfield, MN dentist’s office, we want to restore the health, function, and beauty of your smile. To find out more about the process of designing and crafting a custom dental restoration, then please call Cedar West Family Dentistry at (612) 861-7188.
