Anterior Crowns (Front Teeth)
Dallas, TX

Fractured, decayed or worn out teeth can present a risk to your overall dental health. If left untreated those teeth can result in an abscess, will need to be extracted or result in an infection. At Dallas Prosthodontics, we take the health of your teeth and mouth very seriously. We also understand the importance of your teeth and want to do everything we can to preserve them. To protect your fractured, decayed or worn out teeth, we offer dental crowns.

What are Dental Crowns?

A crown is a “cap” that covers the entire visible portion of a weak or damaged tooth. It simultaneously holds the tooth together (preventing further breakage), provides strength (allowing you to eat normally), protects the tooth from infection (sealing out bacteria and other potential contaminants) and restores the natural form (maintaining its function as well as esthetics). Crowns can prevent further damage by eliminating the need for future complications or extractions, which in turn helps preserve bone and gum tissue.

Dental Crown Materials

Dental crowns can be made out of several materials. Each material has its advantages and disadvantages. Metal crowns are strong and durable. They are also very noticeable, and therefore not very aesthetically pleasing.

Porcelain fused to metal (PFM) crowns have some of the benefits of metal crowns, but with a porcelain coating on the outside, attempting to match the color of your natural teeth. These type of crowns are not recommended if metal allergies are present.

Resin crowns are the most affordable option; however, they are also the weakest. They have the shortest lifespan and are highly susceptible to damage.

The most popular choice for crowns is ceramic. This is because ceramic can be made to perfectly match the color of your natural teeth. Ceramic also imitates the shine of enamel in such a way that it is practically impossible to discern a ceramic crown from an actual tooth. While not indestructible, ceramic can withstand normal biting and chewing forces.

Benefits of Crowns

•	Strengthening a weak tooth
•	Protecting a broken tooth from infection
•	Replacing a large filling that could potentially damage the tooth
•	Providing a cosmetic alternative for a discolored or misshapen tooth
•	Covering a tooth following a root canal
•	Attaching a dental bridge
•	Restore form and function

Crown Procedure

Getting a crown is a fairly straightforward, painless process. During your first visit we only administer a local anesthetic to help manage any discomfort that might be felt when we trim or shave down the affected tooth. This is done to provide enough space for the crown to fit comfortably and naturally in place. Once the tooth is prepared, we will take an impression. The impression is sent to a lab, which will create the crown, a process which could take up to two weeks. If you are getting a ceramic crown, we use a special color guide to match the color of your natural teeth.

A temporary crown will be provided in the meantime. When the permanent restoration is done, you will come back to the office to check the fit and color. If everything looks good, the crown will be cemented in place. Once in place, your crown will require no special care other than the care you give your natural teeth, including regular brushing, flossing and visits to the office for cleanings and exams.

Learn more about Dental Crowns