Crowns

A dental crown (sometimes called a cap) acts as a protective cover for a tooth, part of a tooth, or a dental implant. Dr. Fairweather may recommend placing a crown to treat a variety of conditions, including:

• If a tooth is severely weakened, chipped or broken because of decay or a fracture, a conventional filling may not be strong enough to rebuild it.
   
• A crown may be required as a supporting tooth (abutment) for a fixed bridge. Usually, this tooth located next to a missing one. In some cases additional teeth may be necessary to use as supports depending upon the number of missing teeth being replaced, the health of periodontal supporting tissues (supporting bone around the roots of the abutment teeth and the health of the gingival tissues), occlusal considerations (i.e., biting forces, alignment of the teeth, etc.) and aesthetics.
   
• A crown may be used to cover a discolored or misshapen tooth.

Better Image Dentistry offers a range of options for patients needing a crown at our office in Bridgewater (Somerset County), NJ. Please contact us for more information.

What is a Dental Crown?

A crown is a full-coverage restoration of a tooth. Traditionally, crowns have been made of both porcelain or metal, but today the vast majority of our crowns are all-porcelain crowns. All-porcelain crowns have a translucent appearance that make it difficult to tell them apart from natural teeth.

At Better Image Dentistry, our main goal in placing a crown is to restore or maintain your ability to chew, brush and floss, and have the same look as your own natural tooth.

What are the Benefits of a Using a Crown?

• Your smile will be restored – Even better than before!
• Your damaged, chipped, broken or discolored tooth will be restored to normal function and appearance.
• You will be able to chew, bite and speak naturally.
• You will be able to brush and floss normally.

What Should I Expect if I Need a Crown?

If Dr. Fairweather determines that a crown is the best option for you, the procedure will be completed in one or two visits with the use of local anesthesia.

Often, a crown can be fabricated in one visit using CEREC CAM/CAD technology. After your tooth is shaped, your dentist will take a digital impression. Then, the porcelain restoration will be colored to match your other teeth and the crown will be cemented and completed.

In other situations, after the tooth is shaped and an impression is taken, a temporary crown will be fabricated and cemented. In this case, your crown will be fabricated at a dental laboratory and cemented in about two weeks.

Does Anything Need to Be Done to My Tooth Before a Crown Can Be Made?

If there is not enough tooth remaining to ensure that your crown will remain permanently cemented, it may need to be built up using a composite buildup. If the tooth has had root canal treatment, a post and composite buildup may be necessary.

Is a Crown a Good Option for Me?

At Better Image Dentistry, we approach the fabrication of all crowns and bridges with the intent that they will be functional, healthy, and beautiful for many years to come. We know you appreciate this investment in your dental health and we will do all we can to help you preserve your natural teeth.

Because every patient is unique, Dr. Fairweather and his professional staff will evaluate your specific dental condition to determine whether a crown is the best option for you. Please contact us to schedule a consultation at our office in Bridgewater, NJ.