Dental Crowns
Sometimes an issue with a tooth might not seem like a huge deal, but it can quickly escalate from mere inconvenience to severe pain—and should be taken care of right away. When you have chipped, cracked, or otherwise damaged teeth, a customized dental crown can help improve your quality of life.
Dental crowns are an excellent option when you have damaged teeth that still have some of their normal function and strength. This restorative dentistry procedure is relatively quick and gives lasting results to improve the look and function of your teeth.
Have questions about dental crowns or want to schedule your appointment? Call Torrey Dental today!
Request An AppointmentWhat Is a Dental Crown?
The simplest way to describe a dental crown is to imagine it as a “cap” that fits over your natural tooth. This cap helps restore the shape, durability, and size of the tooth. It can also improve the appearance of a damaged tooth.
While there are various kinds of crowns, most of them cover the entire part of the tooth that sits above the gums.
Dental crowns are a permanent procedure that can’t be removed without a dentist. They usually last around 10–15 years, after which another crown or other restorative treatment can take its place.
Types of Dental Crowns
Various types of dental crowns can restore the function and form of your teeth. However, some are more commonly used than others. Dr. Torrey will figure out the best kind of dental crown for you.
While metal crowns are sometimes used, they aren’t as popular as they used to be. Metal crowns are much more noticeable, so these days resin, porcelain, and ceramic crowns that are personalized to match your mouth are much more common.
These types of crowns match the color and luminescence of your other teeth, so they look completely natural in your mouth.
The Dental Crown Process
When you go to Torrey Dental to receive the crown, Dr. Torrey and the staff will walk you through the process. However, to give you a general idea of how the treatment goes, here are the steps of a dental crown:
- Receiving a consultation: At the beginning of the appointment, Dr. Torrey will take x-rays and ensure you don’t need any other treatment first.
- Preparing the tooth: During the appointment for your dental crown, you’ll receive numbing medication. Then, the tooth will be reshaped to make enough room for the crown. If you have a chipped tooth, you may also receive fillings in the tooth to support the crown.
- Taking impressions of the tooth: Then, Dr. Torrey will take impressions of the tooth. These are either done using digital scans or using a putty material. The impression is sent to a dental lab where your unique crown gets created. You’ll get a temporary crown in the meantime.
- Placing the permanent crown: Finally, a couple of weeks later, you’ll return to the office to receive the crown. It’s cemented in place using the most up-to-date bonding protocols according to the latest scientific data to ensure the crown always stays secure.
Throughout the process, we make sure you are comfortable and get the necessary anesthesia and support you need.
Our Dental Onlay Options
While dental crowns cover the entire tooth, dental onlays are a less invasive option. Dental onlays are similar to dental crowns, but they only cover part of the natural tooth. Usually, they cover the top part of your tooth.
These are a good option when you have minor damage to a tooth and don’t need the entire crown.
Request Your Consultation Today!
Wondering if dental crowns are right for you? They are a cost-effective and durable way to make your teeth stronger once again. Dental crowns can restore your self-confidence and leave you showing off your healthier smile.
The best way to know if you need a dental crown is to make an appointment at our office in Pullman, WA. Dr. Torrey will assess your teeth and make a customized dental plan for you. Request a consultation today by giving our office a call!