Dentists have used dental crowns to support and strengthen teeth that have been weakened by decay or injury for about 100 years. With this dental procedure, you can restore your smile to relieve oral discomfort and numerous correct health and cosmetic concerns. 

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a prosthetic device placed over teeth to protect or restore them to a healthy functional state. Usually, dental crowns are made of porcelain or composite resin material. They are used to protect the teeth from further damage by covering exposed tooth surfaces.

A dental crown differs from other dental restorations, such as inlays, onlays, and veneers, in that the crown covers all sides of the tooth and surrounds it. Crowns are most often placed over the tooth's entire surface to restore it to its original state. However, crowns can also cover and support a dental bridge.

How Can Dental Crowns Support Teeth?

Dental crowns are used to restore teeth to their original shape, size, and strength and improve the appearance of cosmetically damaged teeth beyond repair. 

Crowns can be used with other restorative procedures, such as root canal therapy. Dental crowns are also used to support dental implants. A dental crown can cover a large filling or several small fillings and are referred to by their size, a partial crown or a complete crown.

A crown may be placed over the entire tooth or only the visible portion of the tooth. The portion of the tooth covered by the crown is referred to as a coronal restoration, while the remaining portion is called a root.

How Are Dental Crowns Installed?

Installing dental crowns involves two main steps: preparing the tooth and then placing and curing the crown.

1. Preparing the Tooth

Before a dental crown can be placed, the tooth must be prepared and shaped to receive the crown. The dentist may need to clean the tooth and fill small cracks with a dental amalgam, composite resin, or dental bonding material. Once the tooth is shaped to receive the crown, a temporary crown may be placed on the tooth.

1. Crown Placement

Depending on your oral health and your tooth's condition, the dentist may choose to prepare the tooth for a permanent crown or a temporary one.

• Temporary Crowns

A temporary crown is used while the tooth is healing after being prepared. The dentist will remove the temporary crown one to two weeks after it has been placed.

• Permanent Crowns

The permanent crown is cemented over the prepared tooth and takes about two weeks to become stable and secure.

1. Curing the Crown

Curing the crown involves the use of a special light. Dental crowns are cured using heat from a light beam that hardens the crown and makes it as hard as the natural tooth. The dental crown is cured for a specific amount of time, depending on the material used to make the crown.

Conclusion

Dental crowns are a standard procedure that restores the function and appearance of damaged or weakened teeth. Dental crowns can be used by anyone looking for a permanent tooth restoration solution. Whether you're looking for a cosmetic solution or because you have a dental emergency, it's a good solution.

Cosmetic Dentistry of Murfreesboro, founded by Dr. Greg Nicholson, has been brightening smiles for over 25 years. We have been providing dental crowns and other restorative dental procedures since 1992, attending to our clients’ long-term and immediate needs. If you’re looking for a cosmetic dentist in Murfreesboro, TN, get in touch with us today! Let us know how we can help!