Dental Crowns

Dental crowns have evolved over the years to become stronger and more natural-looking. Different materials offer different advantages depending on the location of the tooth, its function, and your individual needs. Here are some of the common types of dental crowns:

• Base Metal Alloy: Metal alloy crowns are known for their strength and durability, making them an option for teeth that withstand significant chewing pressure. Because of their metallic appearance, they are typically better suited for molars or other less-visible teeth.
• Porcelain Fused To Metal: Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns combine a metal base with a tooth-colored porcelain exterior. They offer strength along with a more natural appearance, although the underlying metal may sometimes become visible near the gumline.
• All-Resin or All-Porcelain Crowns: Resin and porcelain crowns can be made to closely resemble the color and appearance of natural teeth, making them especially useful for visible areas of the smile. The best material depends on factors such as the location of the tooth, durability needs, appearance, and the individual patient.

Getting a dental crown starts with an evaluation of the tooth to determine the extent of the damage and whether a crown is the right treatment. Dental Excellence offers both traditional crowns and CEREC crowns. With CEREC technology, we can provide same-day dental crowns that are designed, created, and placed right in our office in a single visit, eliminating the need for a temporary crown or a second appointment.

For a traditional crown, one of our dentists will examine the tooth for decay and may take digital X-rays to evaluate the tooth and surrounding structures. The area is numbed before the tooth is carefully reshaped to make room for the crown. Impressions are then taken so your crown can be made to fit your tooth and bite. A temporary crown protects the prepared tooth while the permanent restoration is created by the dental lab. Once it is ready, you’ll return to Dental Excellence to have your new crown fitted and permanently placed.

With proper care, dental crowns can last for many years. Caring for a crowned tooth is much like caring for your natural teeth, with regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups helping protect both the crown and the tooth underneath it. Pay attention to signs of trouble such as pain, sensitivity, chipping, or looseness, and have the crown checked if something doesn’t feel right. Because the natural tooth and surrounding gums still need protection, good oral hygiene is also important for preventing problems such as gum disease.

If you have a damaged or weakened tooth and think a dental crown may be right for you, contact Dental Excellence to schedule an appointment. We provide dental crowns in Independence, Missouri, and welcome patients from Blue Springs, Lee’s Summit, and surrounding communities.