Restorative Dentistry Services
A dental crown, or cap, is a restoration that can be used for a number of purposes. One of the most common uses of a dental crown is to restore a tooth that is significantly damaged or decayed. The crown is custom made to fit over the entire tooth, starting at the gumline, in order to restore the tooth to its original shape and size.
Dental crowns can be made of gold, porcelain or porcelain fused to metal; porcelain crowns are popular because they match the natural color and appearance of your teeth. Our dentists will help you determine which type of dental crown is right for your smile.
Your smile may benefit from a crown if a tooth is damaged or decayed to the point that a dental filling will not provide a successful restoration.
Crowns can also be used for a number of other restorative and aesthetic purposes, including to:
A crown procedure usually requires two appointments. Your first appointment will include taking several highly accurate molds (or impressions) that will be used to create your custom crown. A mold will also be used to create a temporary crown which will stay on your tooth for approximately two weeks until your new crown is fabricated by a dental laboratory.
While the tooth is numb, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping the surface to properly fit the crown. Once these details are accomplished, your temporary crown will be placed with temporary cement and your bite will be checked to ensure you are biting properly.
At your second appointment your temporary crown will be removed, the tooth will be cleaned, and your new crown will be carefully placed to ensure the spacing and bite are accurate.
You will be given care instructions and encouraged to have regular dental visits to check your new crown.
A dental crown is recommended when a tooth is too damaged or decayed to be restored with a filling. Crowns preserve as much of the natural tooth as possible and restore its function and appearance. They are custom-made caps that cover the entire tooth, restoring it to its original shape and size. Dental crowns can be made of materials like porcelain, gold, or porcelain fused to metal. If your tooth is weak, fractured, or has undergone root canal treatment, a crown can protect and strengthen it.
Dental crowns serve both restorative and cosmetic purposes. They can protect teeth after root canal treatments, anchor dental bridges, and complete dental implants. Crowns can also improve the appearance of misshapen or discolored teeth, and strengthen weak or fractured teeth. Additionally, crowns are used to support large fillings when only a small amount of natural tooth remains. Porcelain crowns are especially popular for their ability to blend with your natural teeth, enhancing your smile’s beauty.
No matter what your needs or goals for your smile may be, our dentists and teams are here to help. We look forward to meeting you and helping you take your first steps to better smiles.
Take some time to learn more about the services we provide at Northwestern Dental Center. When you are ready to schedule an appointment with our dentists, contact our dental offices in Chicago.
Our compassionate and skilled team is committed to restoring the health and function of your smile. We offer a full range of restorative dentistry services to address various dental concerns and help you regain a confident, healthy smile. We provide personalized care tailored to meet the unique needs of every patient.
Whether you’re dealing with cavities, damaged teeth, or missing teeth, our restorative treatments—such as fillings, crowns, bridges, and dental implants—are designed to bring back the strength and appearance of your natural teeth. Our goal is to make the process smooth and comfortable, ensuring your dental visits are as stress-free as possible.
If you’re facing any dental issues, we are here to help restore your smile and improve your oral health for years to come. Contact us today to learn more about our restorative dentistry services and how we can help you achieve a beautiful, fully functional smile.
Visit the Patient Center to learn what to expect from your first visit, forms, financial policies, and frequently asked questions!