A crown (or cap) is a covering that encases the entire tooth surface restoring it to its original shape and size. A crown protects and strengthens tooth structure that cannot be restored with fillings or other types of restorations.
Although there are several types of crowns, gold, porcelain, and CEREC.© They are highly durable and will last many years, but like most dental restorations, they may eventually need to be replaced. Porcelain crowns are made to match the shape, size, and color or your teeth giving you a natural, long-lasting beautiful smile.
Reasons for crowns:
What does getting a crown involve?
CEREC crowns
With the latest in 3-D CAD/CAM technology, CEREC you will have a custom made crown in just one appointment! Once Dr Hansen or Dr Jurash determines that you are a candidate for the CEREC process, she will prepare your tooth in the usual way. Instead of taking a traditional impression, she will coat the tooth with a non-toxic, tasteless powder. A camera is then used to take a digital picture of your tooth. This whole "optical impression" process only takes a minute.
Next, the CEREC machine helps your Dentist create the restoration for your tooth. The CEREC 3D software takes the digital picture and converts it into a 3-dimensional virtual model on the computer screen. Your Dentist then uses her dental expertise to design the restoration using the CEREC 3D computer program. Within a few minutes, your Dentist clicks a button, and the restoration design data is sent to a separate milling machine in the office. A ceramic block that matches your tooth shade is placed in the milling machine. About 10 - 20 minutes later, your all-ceramic, tooth-colored restoration is finished and ready to bond in place. Finally, your Dentist tries the restoration in your mouth to ensure proper fit and bite. The restoration is then polished and bonded to the prepared tooth. Your tooth is fully restored with no "temporary" or return trip.
Traditional crowns
A traditional crown procedure usually requires two appointments. Your first appointment will include taking several highly accurate impressions (or molds) that will be used to create your custom crown. A mold will also be used to create a temporary crown which will stay on your tooth for approximately three weeks until your new crown is fabricated by a dental laboratory.
While the tooth is numb, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping the surface to properly fit the crown. Once these details are accomplished, your temporary crown will be placed with temporary cement and your bite will be checked to ensure you are biting properly.
At your second appointment your temporary crown will be removed, the tooth will be cleaned, and your new crown will be carefully placed to ensure the spacing and bite are accurate.
You will be given care instructions and encouraged to have regular dental visits to check your new crown.