A natural dental crown is made of a white enamel covering and yellow dentin underneath. As enamel thins, you see the darker dentin underneath and this is why teeth become yellow with age. When a natural crown is damaged, a man made crown, often called a cap, can be made. There are many reasons for replacement: fracture, loss of enamel, broken tooth, decay with loss of enamel and dentin, sensitive due to a crack, after root canal therapy and cosmetic reasons.
On the first visit the natural dental crown is prepared by reducing its size, an impression is taken and a temporary crown is made. The impression is sent to a dental lab where an accurate model is constructed. The dental technician creates a gold cover for the tooth. A ceramist then bakes porcelain onto the cover so that the porcelain resembles a natural tooth The patient returns to the dental office and the restoration is adjusted and cemented to the tooth. Most patients choose natural looking porcelain crowns, however, it can be made completely out of gold or porcelain. Be sure to discuss your needs with Dr. Padolsky or Dr. Smith.
A dental crown is much stronger than a filling. Many patients crack parts of their natural teeth off when biting something hard. When a significant part is missing, this restoration is the best alternative. A gold crown are very strong and have the advantage of wearing down like natural teeth. A gold cap does not break the way porcelain does. However, these porcelain restorations are beautiful and natural looking.
The cost of a dental crown is usually 50% covered by dental insurance. The money spent now spares your tooth additional insults in the future when fillings fail. A tooth crown covers most of the exposed portion of a tooth and decay does not effect this restoration since it's is made of metal and/or porcelain. However, at the margin where the natural tooth meets the restoration can decay. A dental crown normally lasts 5 to 14 years or more. It is a part of providing excellent Dentistry. If you are interested in a new beautiful smile and would like to find out what Dr. Padolsky can do for you, schedule an appointment at 404-874-7428.