Dental crowns are porcelain caps that surround and cover your entire tooth to the gum line. Typically, they are used to cap and cover, or protect, a damaged tooth. You might need a crown if you have a tooth that has been heavily restored, or one that is breaking down. You might also need a crown to protect a tooth that has had a root canal, since it may split or break more easily than your other teeth.
Restore your Smile and Protect the Life of your Teeth with Dental Crowns
All-porcelain crowns look healthy, white, and natural. They are strong enough to last you for years. They can extend the longevity of your existing tooth.
What is involved in getting a dental crown?
Getting a crown requires two appointments:
- At your first appointment, we shape your tooth all the way around to make room for the crown. Then, we make an impression of the tooth and send it to our dental lab so that they can make your custom-fitted crown. We use a shade guide to ensure that the crown will match the color of your existing teeth. Before you go home, we fit you with a temporary crown that covers and protects your tooth.
- At your second appointment, we gently remove your temporary crown and replace it with the new one. If it fits well and looks good, we cement it in place.
We Also Do ‘Implant’ Dental Crowns
Implant crowns are crowns that screw onto, or are cemented onto, a metal implant that has been surgically inserted in your upper or lower jawbone. They are the “tooth” portion of the dental implant.
Dental implants are one option for replacing missing or badly damaged teeth – bridges and dentures are other options. Implants require oral surgery and are a permanent solution, while dentures are removable dental appliances. If you decide that implants are the right solution for you, our Richmond dental clinic will refer you to a skilled prosthodontist for a consultation.
Interested in knowing more about crowns? We would be happy to let you know if they’re the right solution for you.