Looking for quality restorative dentistry in Bray, OK? Look no further than Chisholm Trail Smile Center. Our Bray dentist, Dr. Matthew L. Bridges, provides his patients with several restorative options to improve the function and aesthetic of their smiles. One such restorative option that Dr. Bridges provides is dental crowns. Here, we will discuss the purpose, varieties, and process of getting dental crowns.
Am I a good candidate for a dental crown?
A dental crown is one of the most commonly used restorative options. Good candidates for a dental crown may include patients with:
- A tooth damaged by decay
- A cracked tooth
- A weakened tooth
- A misshapen or discolored tooth
- A broken or worn tooth
- A dental implant
What is a dental crown?
A dental crown is a tooth-like “cap” that a dentist fits over a natural tooth or dental implant. By placing a dental crown over a damaged tooth, dentists repair the tooth’s structure and restore the patient’s chewing function. Furthermore, the crown looks like a natural tooth, so patients can continue to smile with comfort and confidence.
What are the different types of dental crowns?
Dental professionals can make crowns from several materials. At Chisholm Trail Smile Center, we offer:
- All Ceramic: This is the most common type of dental crown. Our dentist color-matches the metal-free crown to the patient’s surrounding teeth for a natural appearance.
- Metal: Although metal crowns are the strongest, longest-lasting option, their metallic appearance makes them a less desirable option than other crowns. However, many patients can use metal crowns to restore back teeth that aren’t visible when they smile.
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal: These crowns are stronger than all-ceramic crowns. The metal base is hidden by tooth-colored porcelain. However, the porcelain might wear away over time to reveal the metal underneath.
- Zirconia: Zirconia crowns are biocompatible, natural-looking, and stronger than porcelain or ceramic. Therefore, they are one of the best metal-free restorative options available to patients today.
What is a dental crown procedure like?
First, Dr. Bridges will need to examine the patient’s teeth and gums to determine if a dental crown is necessary. He may also need to take some x-rays to confirm his diagnosis. If Dr. Bridges decides that a patient needs a dental crown, then patients can expect the following:
- Local anesthesia: Dr. Bridges prioritizes his patients’ comfort. That’s why he’ll administer a local anesthesia to numb the tooth and gums for the procedure.
- Shaping: Dr. Bridges carefully prepares the damaged tooth before shaping the tooth. Once the tooth is prepared, Dr. Bridges will shape the tooth to accommodate the placement of the dental crown.
- Impressions: Dr. Bridges will need to take impressions of the patient’s mouth after he shapes the tooth. Then, he will send the impression to a dental lab where the final crown will be made.
- Temporary crown: To protect the tooth while the final crown is being made, Dr. Bridges fits his patients with a temporary crown.
- Final crown: Once the lab finishes the crown, we will schedule an appointment for Dr. Bridges to fit the patient with their crown. At this appointment, Dr. Bridges will make any necessary adjustments before cementing the crown into place.
Bray Dentist Near Me
If you have a damaged, decayed, or worn-down tooth, then it’s time to contact our Bray dentist. Dr. Bridges and his caring team can restore your function and confidence with a quality dental crown. Not sure if you need a crown? Give us a call at (580) 255-4880 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.
