Porcelain Crowns or Caps

One of the most popular procedures performed at Dr. Levin’s office are crowns. A crown (or cap) is a covering that encases the entire tooth surface restoring it to its original shape and size. The purpose of crowns is to protect and strengthen the tooth structure usually in dental cases that cannot be fixed with fillings or other types of restorations.

There are several types of crowns, porcelain (tooth colored crown) are the most popular as they resemble your natural teeth. Porcelain crowns are custom made to match the shape, size, and color or your teeth. Crowns are durable with a lifespan of many years, nevertheless Dr. Levin recommends that most dental restorations are eventually replaced. Porcelain crowns will give you many reasons to smile with an aesthetically pleasing outcome.

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 requires two appointments. On the first appointment, Dr. Levin takes several accurate molds (or impressions) that will be used to create your custom crown. The mold will also be used to create a temporary crown which will stay on your tooth for approximately two weeks. This allows the dentist to protect the tooth until your new crown is manufactured by a dental laboratory.

While the tooth is numb, Dr. Levin will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping the surface to properly fit the crown. Once the preparation is complete, your temporary crown will be placed with temporary cement. Dr. Levin will check your bite 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. It is important to ensure the spacing and bite are accurate.

Dr. Levin will provide care instructions and encourage you to have regular dental visits to check your new crown.