Dental Crowns

What is a dental crown?

A dental crown is a tooth restoration treatment that can address many different dental issues. Crowns are among the most versatile treatment options allowing you to preserve as much healthy tooth tissue as possible.

Some of the dental problems a custom crown can correct include:

• Cracked teeth
• Broken teeth
• Chipped teeth
• Severe discoloration
• Misshapen teeth
• Irregularities in tooth size

Dental crowns also serve to anchor a dental bridge, protect a tooth after a root canal, and function as the visible portion of a dental implant. 

What are the steps involved in getting a dental crown?

During your initial visit, Dr. Okoro may perform X-rays or digital imaging to determine if a dental crown is the best fit for your needs. If so, he begins by carefully removing a small portion of your natural tooth tissue to make room for your new crown. 

Next, another set of imaging or impressions are made. These provide the dental lab with the specifications needed to create your custom dental crown. A temporary crown is placed to protect your tooth until your permanent crown is ready. 

You’ll return to the office to have your custom crown checked for fit and appearance. Once you and Dr. Okoro are satisfied with the look and feel of the crown, it’s cemented into place. 

How do I care for a new dental crown?

Once your dental crown is complete it will look and function much like your natural teeth. No special care is needed, although it’s important to protect your crown from damage, just like with natural teeth.

Avoid chewing ice, hard candies, or other excessively hard or sticky foods. Never use your teeth to hold items or pry open containers. Your dental crown can never decay, but it’s important to brush and floss thoroughly to prevent gum disease and cavities along your gum line. 

When you come in for routine dental exams Dr. Okoro will check your crown along with the rest of your teeth. A crown will occasionally loosen and need to be cemented back into place. While you can expect your custom crown to last a decade or longer, it will eventually need to be replaced.

If you have questions or concerns about dental crowns, call the office today to set up a consultation. Online scheduling is also available and can be done any time of day or night.