Everything You Need to Know About Dental Crowns
A Comprehensive Guide for Dental Crowns
Top Family Dentistry in Metairie, LA
Dental crowns play a crucial role in restorative and cosmetic dentistry, offering a durable solution for damaged, decayed, or aesthetically compromised teeth. Whether you have a weakened tooth, need protection after a root canal, or want to enhance the look of your smile, dental crowns provide strength and longevity.
At Concord Family Dental - Metairie, we specialize in custom dental crowns that restore both function and appearance. If you’re considering a crown, here’s everything you need to know about this popular treatment option.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a cap that fully covers a damaged or weakened tooth, restoring its shape, size, and function. Crowns can be made from different materials, including porcelain, ceramic, zirconia, or metal, each offering unique advantages based on durability, aesthetics, and location in the mouth.
When Might You Need a Dental Crown?
A dentist may recommend a crown for various reasons, including:
- To Protect a Weakened or Cracked Tooth – A crown reinforces a compromised tooth, preventing further fractures.
- For Large Cavities – When decay is too extensive for a filling, a crown provides better coverage and support.
- Following a Root Canal – After a root canal, a crown ensures the tooth remains strong and functional.
- For Cosmetic Enhancements – Crowns can be used to correct misshapen or discolored teeth, especially as part of a Metairie cosmetic dentist treatment plan.
- To Anchor a Dental Bridge – Crowns serve as anchors for dental bridges that replace missing teeth.
If you have a missing tooth, a dental implant in Metairie topped with a crown could be a more permanent solution.
Types of Dental Crowns
There are several types of dental crowns available, including:
- Porcelain Crowns – Blend naturally with teeth, making them ideal for front teeth.
- Ceramic Crowns – Provide durability and aesthetics, often chosen for cosmetic treatments.
- Zirconia Crowns – Highly durable and resistant to wear, best for back teeth.
- Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns – A balance of strength and aesthetics, combining a metal core with a porcelain outer layer.
Our team at Concord Family Dental - Metairie will help you choose the best crown material based on your dental needs and aesthetic goals.
The Dental Crown Procedure: What to Expect
Getting a dental crown usually requires two visits:
- First Visit: Tooth Preparation & Temporary Crown
- The tooth is reshaped to make space for the crown.
- Impressions are taken to ensure a perfect fit.
- A temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth.
2. Second Visit: Permanent Crown Placement
- The temporary crown is removed.
- The permanent crown is checked for fit and bite alignment before being cemented into place.
For patients seeking faster solutions, some offices offer same-day crowns using advanced CAD/CAM technology.
Caring for Your Dental Crown
To ensure your crown lasts as long as possible, follow these care tips:
- Brush and floss daily to maintain gum health.
- Avoid chewing on hard foods that could damage the crown.
- Schedule regular checkups with a dentist in Metairie to monitor the condition of your crown.
If you need a durable and natural-looking restoration, contact Concord Family Dental - Metairie today!
2636 Athania Pkwy, Metairie, LA 70002