Crowns

Crowns are synthetic caps, usually made of a material like porcelain, that are placed on top of a tooth.

Crowns are typically used to restore a tooth’s function and appearance following a restorative procedure such as root canal.  Additionally, when decay in a tooth advances to the point that large portions of the tooth must be removed, crowns are often used to restore the tooth.

Crowns are also used to attach bridges, cover implants, or protect cracked teeth or those with loose or dislocated fillings.  They are used aesthetically and are applied to restore discolored or stained teeth to their natural appearance.

Procedures

In order to accommodate a crown, a tooth must usually be reduced in size. An impression is taken and then a cast is made of the existing tooth.  The impression is sent to a special lab which manufactures a custom-designed crown.  In some cases, a temporary crown is inserted until the permanent crown is completed.  Permanent crowns are then cemented in place.

Crowns are sometimes confused with veneers, but they are quite different.  Veneers are typically applied only to relatively small areas.

Caring for your Crowns

With proper care, a good quality crown could last up to eight years or longer.  It is very important to floss the area around the crown to avoid excess plaque or the collection of debris around the restoration.

Certain behaviors such as jaw clenching or bruxism (teeth grinding) significantly shorten the life of a crown.  Moreover, eating brittle foods such as ice or hard candy can compromise the adhesion of the crown or even damage it.

Bridges

Bridges are natural looking dental appliances that can replace sections of missing teeth.  Because they are custom made, bridges are barely noticeable and can restore the natural contour of teeth as well as the proper bite relationship between upper and lower teeth.

Bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth.  Two crowns are prepared and cosmetically fused together to form the bridge. Bridges can typically last ten years or longer.

Alan L. Mazer, D.M.D.
140 Terryville Road
Port Jefferson Station,
New York 11776
(631) 473-0666
(631) 875-3747 - After Hours Emergency Number
(631) 473-0679 - fax