A crown (or cap) is a covering that encases the entire tooth surface restoring it to its original shape and size. A crown protects and strengthens tooth structure that cannot be restored with fillings or other types of restorations.
Although there are several types of crowns (Full Gold, Porcelain fused to metal, Full Porcelain, and CEREC (1 appointment crowns), porcelain (tooth colored crown) are the most popular. They are highly durable and will last many years, but like most dental restorations, they may eventually need to be replaced. Porcelain crowns are made to match the shape, size, and color or your teeth giving you a natural, long-lasting beautiful smile.
Reasons for crowns:
- Broken or fractured teeth.
- Cosmetic enhancement.
- Decayed teeth.
- Fractured fillings.
- Large fillings.
- Tooth has a root canal.
What does getting a crown involve?
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 Dr. Grzegorzewski 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.
Crown Warranty
Porcelain Crowns, Bridges & Onlays [Click to open the Printer Friendly Version]
Temporaries
- You have just received a temporary restoration that will serve you for a short period of time while your permanent crown is being made. This will protect the tooth and hold the tooth in position so the permanent restoration will fit properly.
- Temporaries are not strong. They may break or come off occasionally. If so, slip it back on the tooth with some Fixodent (Denture Adhesive) and call us for an appointment. Please do not leave the temporary out of your mouth because the tooth will move and the final restoration will not fit. Brush softly and floss carefully around your temporary. Be careful not to lift the temporary up when you floss - just pull it through. It is imperative that the gum tissue remains healthy or we may not be able to seat your new restoration.
- The size, shape, and color of the temporary does not resemble the final restoration.
- Temporary restorations may leak saliva or food onto the tooth. Sensitivity to hot, cold, pressure or sweets is not uncommon. If you feel the bite is not correctly balanced, please call for an appointment for a simple adjustment.
Permanent Crowns / Onlays
- After the final cementation of your restoration, it may take a few days to get used to the new crown or bridge. Hot and cold sensitivity is possible for a few weeks and occasionally lasts for several months. As with the temporary, if the bite doesn't feel balanced please call us.
- Do not chew hard or sticky foods on the restoration for 24 hours from the time they were cemented. The cement must set during this time to have optimum strength.
- Proper brushing, flossing, and regular 6-month (minimal) cleanings are required to help you retain your final restoration. The only area that a crowned tooth can decay is at the edge of the crown at the gum line. Often, small problems that develop around the restorations can be found at an early stage and corrected easily, but waiting for a longer time may require redoing the entire restoration.
Warranty
- For a period of 5 years from the date of service, we will replace the crown or bridge due to breaking or decay at no cost to the patient. (This does not include accidents that could also break normal, healthy teeth).
- This warranty is null and void if the patient does not maintain their 6-month continuing care cleaning appointments.