Protect and Restore a Damaged Tooth
When a tooth has been weakened by decay, a large filling, an injury, or wear, a dental crown can help protect it and restore its shape and function.
A crown is a custom-made restoration that covers the visible portion of a tooth. It can strengthen a tooth that needs more support than a filling can provide while also restoring its appearance.
When Might You Need a Crown?
- A significant crack or fracture
- Extensive decay
- A large filling that has weakened the remaining tooth
- Significant wear or damage
- Root canal treatment
- A shape or appearance that would benefit from a full-coverage restoration
Whenever possible, we want to preserve healthy tooth structure. If a filling, bonding, or onlay can adequately restore the tooth, a crown may not be necessary.
How Does a Dental Crown Work?
Treatment typically begins with an examination and preparation of the tooth. Impressions or a digital scan are used to design a crown that fits your tooth and bite. Once the crown is ready, we’ll carefully check the fit, appearance, and bite before completing the restoration.
Choosing the Right Material
Crowns can be made from several materials, including tooth-colored ceramic or porcelain, metal, or porcelain fused to metal. The best material depends on the location of the tooth, the forces placed on it, the condition of the remaining tooth structure, and your individual needs.
Crown or Onlay?
If enough healthy tooth structure remains, an onlay may restore the damaged area while preserving more of the natural tooth. We’ll recommend the most conservative restoration that can provide the support and protection the tooth needs.
Caring for Your Crown
A crowned tooth still needs regular brushing, cleaning between the teeth, and professional dental care. Avoid using your teeth to bite hard objects or open packages, and let us know if you clench or grind your teeth.
Restoring Your Tooth with Care
Before treatment, we’ll explain why a crown is being recommended, what alternatives may be available, and what the process will involve.
Call Princeton Dental Group at (609) 924-0796 or schedule an appointment.