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AESTHETIC CROWNS
AESTHETIC CROWNS
WE WILL MAKE SURE YOUR CROWNS LOOK GREAT
Aesthetic crowns are extremely versatile for a number of reasons. Not only do they prevent future fracture or damage to existing teeth, but they can be combined to form larger and more complex restorations, such as bridges or dentures. If you need an aesthetic crown, we will make sure it fits over your natural tooth, ensuring long-lasting protection.
Aesthetic Crown Materials
Crowns can be made of ceramic (porcelain-based), porcelain fused to metal, gold alloys, and base metal alloys. There are strengths and disadvantages to each type of material.
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Base Metal Alloys are very strong and highly resistant to corrosion and wear, as well as gentle to opposing teeth. A base metal alloy crown typically requires the least amount of tooth structure to be removed.
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Gold Alloys adhere strongly to the tooth structure and are highly biocompatible with gum tissue. It is resistant to wear and fracture and does not wear away opposing teeth.
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Porcelain Fused to Metal (PFM) crowns provide good strength and seal to the teeth, preventing leakage and decrease recurring tooth decay. A moderate amount of tooth structure must be removed, but PFM crowns offer a stronger restoration than porcelain alone and are quite durable and strong. However, over time dark grey or black lines can begin to appear at the gumline as the metal base begins to show through.
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Ceramic is especially recommended for restoring front teeth due to its highly natural appearance. Porcelain crowns can be shade-matched exactly to the shade of your other teeth, and unless damaged are highly resistant to staining. More tooth structure often must be removed for porcelain crown restorations, and because the material is not as durable as the other options it is not recommended for teeth that sustain heavy biting and chewing.
The Procedure
After it’s been confirmed that your tooth and surrounding structure are in good health, getting a dental crown typically requires two visits.
During the first visit, Dr. Sharp will numb the area and shape the tooth so that a crown can fit over it. She will take an impression, which will be sent to a dental lab where the crown is created to beautifully match your other teeth. She will fit you with a temporary crown to protect your tooth while the crown is being made, which generally takes about two weeks.
On the second visit, Dr. Sharp will thoroughly inspect the permanent crown to ensure correct size, shape and color. She will then remove the temporary crown and cement the permanent crown into place, again checking to be sure that fit, bite and aesthetics are correct. You will be given care instructions to ensure that your crown lasts a very long time. With proper care, dental crowns can last 10-20 years, or even a lifetime!
