Porcelain Crowns
Porcelain crowns, made of a special, durable porcelain composite material, can effectively replicate both the appearance and the function of natural teeth, leaving you with the healthy, pristine smile you’ve always dreamed of.
When your tooth is too damaged to be repaired with a filling, a dental crown can replace the entire visible tooth surface with a natural, functional crown (also called a cap).
Unlike traditional metal crowns, porcelain crowns are indistinguishable from natural teeth, both in appearance and function. In fact, the porcelain composite material used for your crown can actually strengthen your natural tooth, so it is less susceptible to damage from chipping, pitting, and breakage.
What Happens When You Get a Crown
The procedure for porcelain crowns usually takes place over two office visits.
- During your first visit, your existing tooth will be repaired as necessary (which may entail endodontic procedures), and the surface will be prepared for the crown.
- Your dentist will then make a precise mold of the tooth and surrounding area, which he or she will use to create a custom crown. You will be fitted with a temporary crown to protect your tooth until your next visit.
- On your second visit, your new crown will be fitted to the existing tooth material using a special bonding agent that provides a tighter and more secure bond than the adhesive used for crowns.
Frequently Asked Questions About Porcelain Crowns
What are porcelain crowns used for?
Porcelain crowns are usually recommended in cases when a tooth has sustained too much damage to be repaired with a filling, but the tooth is still salvageable. This includes most cases in which a root canal is performed.
Are porcelain crowns durable?
Yes. Today’s porcelain crowns are significantly stronger than the older style dental crowns and more aesthetically pleasing.
Isn’t porcelain only for the front teeth?
No. Today’s porcelain materials are strong and durable enough that we can use clean, natural looking tooth-colored composites on all of your dental work.
How long will the procedure take?
The procedure will take place over the course of at least two office visits. During your first visit, any decay will be removed, the tooth will be prepared, and your dentist will take a precise mold of the tooth. By your second visit, your new custom-designed porcelain crown will be fitted, affixed, and adjusted.
Other questions?
If you have any other questions not answered here, call or email us today to schedule your personal consultation with Colonial Dental Group. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you have.