Dental Crowns

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Dental Crowns Southborough MA

Dental Crowns | Dentists have many options to help patients restore the function and appearance of their smile. One of them is a dental crown. Also known as a cap, a dental crown covers the entire tooth. It can be used for functional or cosmetic purposes. In addition, there are many reasons to use a crown. For example, they can be used to protect or restore weak and decaying teeth. If a tooth has a large filling, a crown can cover it up and support it. Also, a dental crown can be used to cover a dental implant, hold a bridge in place and cover up teeth that are discolored or misshapen. 

There are both temporary and permanent crowns available, as well as crowns made of various materials such as metal, porcelain, ceramic and resin. There are pros and cons of each of these. Contact Southborough Dental Partners to learn more about crowns.

dental crowns southborough ma

The Process

A crown requires two visits. First, the dentist will numb the tooth and surrounding gum tissue. Next, the tooth is filed down to make room for the crown. If a large area of the tooth is already missing, filling material is used to build up the tooth.

Once the tooth has been reshaped, the dentist will make an impression of the tooth using paste or putty. In addition, a digital scanner may be used. 

The impressions or scans are sent to a dental lab so the crown can be created. The crown will be ready in approximately 2-3 weeks. Nonetheless, you will receive a temporary crown at the first office visit. This crown is made of acrylic and held in place with cement.

At the second visit, you will receive your permanent crown. The dentist will check the fit and color. If everything looks good, it will be cemented in place.

Pros and Cons

  • Metal. Metal crowns are the strongest. They last a long time and are thin, requiring less material to be removed from the tooth. The metallic color really stands out. Likewise, some people develop allergic reactions to the material.
  • Porcelain fused to metal. This crown is fairly strong thanks to the added metal. The porcelain, however, can crack or chip. In addition, the metal can sometimes show up as a dark line.
  • Ceramic. Ceramic crowns have a natural look. They can be made to match existing teeth. However, they are not as strong as metal crowns. 
  • Resin. Resin crowns are the least expensive and they are easy to make. However, they are also fairly weak and prone to fracture.

Contact Us to Learn About Dental Crowns

If your teeth are weak, cracked or simply unattractive, a dental crown can improve the aesthetics of your smile and make you feel more confident. Which type of crown is right for you? Schedule a consultation with Southborough Dental Partners and find out. In addition, we can be reached at (508) 357-8800 . We look forward to serving you!