Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Crowns

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped restoration that is placed over a damaged tooth to restore its function and appearance. Dental crowns are most commonly placed after a root canal, but they can also be used in combination with dental implants to replace missing teeth.

What Are the Different Types of Dental Crowns?

Porcelain crowns are the most popular choice for restoring teeth used by the dentist in Glendale and the dentist in Phoenix because they are durable and look just like natural teeth. Gold crowns are also a good choice because they last longer than porcelain, but they are more expensive and require multiple office visits. Metal alloy or stainless steel crowns are not as aesthetically pleasing as porcelain options, but they can cost less and are very strong and durable.

What Are the Advantages of Getting a Dental Crown?

Dental crowns placed by the dentist in Glendale and the dentist in Phoenix offer numerous benefits, such as:

• Restores the tooth’s shape and appearance
• Protects against further damage
• Allows patients to eat and speak properly after surgery
• Helps prevent additional tooth loss
• Can be used as part of a complete smile makeover that includes restorative work such as dental implants or teeth whitening

When Are Dental Crowns Necessary?

Dental crowns are commonly used to repair a tooth that has been affected by decay, severe wear, and tear, or a dental injury. The crown covers the visible portion of the tooth above the gum line to prevent further damage and give the tooth increased strength.

Who is a Candidate for Dental Crowns?

Patients who want to restore their damaged teeth with a custom-made restoration are usually good candidates for dental crowns. Candidates should be in good oral health with no signs of cavities or other problems. Patients who have recently lost a tooth are also good candidates. Those who feel embarrassed about their smile due to cosmetic flaws may be good candidates as well.

How Are Dental Crowns Made?

To make your crown, the dentist in Glendale or the dentist in Phoenix will first need to create a mold of your tooth. We do this by coating your tooth with a safe material called impression putty. Then we’ll take an impression or mold of your prepared tooth to send to the lab where your restoration will be manufactured. We’ll place a temporary crown over your tooth to protect it in the meantime. Once your permanent crown is ready, you’ll come back to our office, where we’ll remove your temporary crown and place your permanent one in its place. The whole process usually takes about two or three weeks for one crown from start to finish. 

What is a Dental Crown Procedure Like?

The step of receiving your dental crown with the dentist in Glendale and the dentist in Phoenix is easy and comfortable. Patients should expect their dentist to take several impressions and measurements for their new crown. These preliminary steps are typically completed during the first appointment; then, patients can return about two weeks later for the placement of the final restoration.

On the day of your appointment, the dentist in Glendale or the dentist in Phoenix will use a special cement to bond the dental crown in place. First, they will use a paste to etch the surface of the tooth that will be receiving the treatment. This creates a rough texture that makes the cement stick better. Next, they will apply the cement to the tooth and firmly place the crown into place. Once everything is set, a crown fit should feel comfortable and secure.

Dr. Darian, D.D.S. of Winning Smiles Dentistry, is here to provide you with the best treatment and advice possible. To make a reservation or to learn more about our dental services, please contact us at (623) 777-7942. Alternatively, you can visit us at your nearest location to see the dentist in Glendale or the dentist in Phoenix.