A dental crown in Portland, OR, is a cap or cover placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are often used to protect weak or damaged teeth, enhance the aesthetic of a tooth, or restore a tooth that has undergone a root canal. They act as a protective shell that envelops the tooth, effectively "crowning" it and restoring its function.
Crowns can be made from various materials, including porcelain, metal, or a combination of both. The material chosen for your crown will depend on several factors, including the location of the tooth, your aesthetic preferences, and the level of durability required.
Dental crowns can serve a variety of purposes, addressing both cosmetic and functional issues. Some of the most common reasons people may need dental crowns include:
A crown can help protect a tooth that is weak due to decay, fractures, or wear. If a tooth is severely worn down or cracked, a crown can prevent it from breaking further and provide support for the remaining tooth structure.
After a root canal procedure, a tooth may become more fragile. A crown is typically placed over the treated tooth to protect it and restore its function, allowing it to last for many years.
Crowns are often used to enhance the appearance of discolored or misshapen teeth. If you have a tooth that is chipped, broken, or badly stained and cannot be restored with bonding or fillings, a crown can be the perfect solution to restore its natural appearance.
Crowns are also used in combination with dental implants or bridges to replace missing teeth. In these cases, the crown acts as the visible part of the restoration, providing a natural look and restoring full dental function.
When replacing missing teeth, crowns are often placed on the adjacent teeth to support a dental bridge. These crowns hold the bridge securely in place, ensuring it functions properly.
There are several types of dental crowns, each made from different materials that offer varying degrees of strength, durability, and aesthetic appeal. The most common types include:
Porcelain crowns are known for their natural appearance and are commonly used for teeth that are visible when you smile. These crowns can be matched to the color of your natural teeth, making them an excellent option for front teeth. Porcelain crowns are durable, stain-resistant, and can provide a highly aesthetic result, making them one of the most popular choices for patients who want a seamless restoration.
Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns combine the strength of metal with the aesthetic appeal of porcelain. The metal base provides durability, while the porcelain exterior gives the crown a natural look. PFM crowns are often used for teeth that need extra strength, such as molars, and they are a good option when strength is a priority, but aesthetics are still important.
Metal crowns are made from durable materials such as gold, silver, or a combination of other metals. While they are extremely strong and long-lasting, metal crowns are generally not used for visible teeth due to their color. However, they are an excellent choice for back teeth that endure heavy chewing pressure. Metal crowns are highly durable and resistant to wear, making them a long-term solution.
Zirconia crowns are a newer option that combines the strength of metal with the aesthetic benefits of porcelain. Zirconia is a highly durable material that can be color-matched to your natural teeth, making it a popular choice for both front and back teeth. These crowns are resistant to cracks and fractures, making them ideal for teeth that require extra strength.
Resin crowns are typically used for temporary restorations. They are more affordable than other materials but are less durable and more prone to wear over time. Resin crowns are often used while waiting for a more permanent solution or as a temporary measure until a crown can be fabricated in the dental laboratory.
At Pacific Woods Dental, we understand that the process of getting a dental crown is a significant procedure, and we are committed to ensuring it is as smooth and comfortable as possible. The process generally involves two visits:
The first visit will begin with a thorough examination of the affected tooth and a discussion of your treatment options. Your dentist will take X-rays to assess the extent of the damage and determine if a crown is the right solution. If the tooth is severely decayed or damaged, your dentist may need to remove any decayed tissue or reshape the tooth to make room for the crown.
After preparing the tooth, your dentist will take impressions of the tooth and the surrounding area. These impressions are sent to a dental laboratory where your custom crown will be created. In some cases, your dentist may place a temporary crown to protect the tooth while the permanent crown is being made.
Once your custom crown is ready, you will return to Pacific Woods Dental for the final fitting. During this visit, your dentist in Portland, OR will remove the temporary crown and check the fit of the permanent crown. They will ensure that the crown fits comfortably and aligns with your bite. If any adjustments are needed, the crown will be fine-tuned to ensure a perfect fit.
Once the crown is ready, it will be bonded securely to the tooth using a strong adhesive. Your dentist will make any final adjustments, ensuring that your bite is comfortable and that the crown looks natural. After the procedure, you can enjoy a fully restored tooth that both looks and functions like a natural tooth.
After getting your dental crown, it’s important to take good care of it to ensure its longevity. Here are a few tips for maintaining your dental crown:
Dental crowns are a powerful solution for restoring the function, strength, and appearance of damaged or weakened teeth. Whether you're dealing with decay, cracks, or cosmetic concerns, dental crowns offer a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing option. At Pacific Woods Dental in Portland, OR, we provide custom-designed crowns that meet your unique needs and help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile. If you think you may need a dental crown or if you have any questions about the process, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Let us help you restore and protect your smile!
To learn more about the dental services at Pacific Woods Dental, call 503-292-5483, and schedule an appointment now!
MON - WED 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
THU - THU 7:00 am - 4:00 pm
FRI - SUN Closed
