Dental Crowns

What are crowns made of?

Dental crowns can be made from porcelain, porcelain fused to metal, gold, or stainless steel. For children’s teeth, crowns are commonly made of stainless steel. It is a durable material that is less expensive than other types. Stainless steel might also be used for a temporary crown for adult teeth, which is inserted until a porcelain crown can be made to match your natural tooth color. For back teeth like molars, where cosmetics are less of a concern, Dr. Katende might recommend a metal crown for greater durability.

What’s involved in fitting a crown?

X-rays are an important first step for determining the extent of decay around the tooth. A root canal may be necessary if there is a high risk for infection, but quite often the next step will be to prepare the tooth to receive the crown.

After applying an anesthetic, the tooth is filed down to make space for the crown. Teeth that have larger cavities may require a filling to provide support. Then a temporary crown is inserted to provide support for the teeth while the permanent crown is made.

An ill-fitting crown could affect how you bite and chew, which is why we take extra care to evaluate your teeth when making the crown. We will also match the color of the porcelain to your natural tooth color, giving you a seamless, new smile.

How do you care for a crowned tooth?

If you are given a temporary crown, you will have to avoid foods that might pull it out of place, or possibly even chewing on the side of your mouth where the crown is located. There will be fewer restrictions once you have the permanent crown in place.

How long does a crown last?

Your crown can last for as long as 15 years if you maintain good oral hygiene habits, such as brushing, flossing, and getting regular check-ups. Anti-bacterial mouthwash can be especially helpful in keeping your crown strong.