Highland Park St. Paul General Dentist Discusses Dental Restorations

Written by Drs. Mark and Rachel Malterud on Nov 19, 2013

There are so many different types of cosmetic and restorative procedures and treatments being available today, it’s understandable that there may be some confusion about which treatment best suits your situation – dental implants, crowns, bridges, or dentures. Our Highland Park St. Paul General Dentist office offers all these services. Here is a rundown of uses for each:
 
What is a dental crown?

Dental crowns (“caps”) are one of dentistry’s most versatile types of restorations. Crowns are a type of dental restoration which, when cemented into place, fully cup over the portion of a tooth that lies at and above the gum line. In comparison, fillings are dental restorations that fill in or cover just a portion of a tooth. Since dental crowns encase the entire visible aspect of a tooth, a dental crown in effect becomes the tooth’s new outer surface.

Although there are several types of crowns porcelain are the most popular.  They are highly durable and will last many years. Porcelain crowns are made to match the shape, size, and color or your teeth giving you a natural, long-lasting beautiful smile.

When is a dental crown used?

A crown essentially becomes the new tooth, restoring it to its original shape and may be used to strengthen broken, fractured teeth, cover large or fractured fillings or for cosmetic enhancement. In addition, a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment may have a crown placed.  This protects the tooth, prevents it from breaking, and restores it to its full function.

What does getting a crown involve?

A crown procedure usually requires two appointments.  Your first appointment at the Highland Park St. Paul General Dentist office will include taking several highly accurate impressions used to create a temporary crown as well as your permanent custom crown.  

The dentist prepares the tooth by removing any decay and shaping the surface to properly fit the crown.  Your temporary crown is then placed and your dentist will ensure a proper bite.

At your second appointment your temporary crown will be removed, the tooth will be cleaned, and your dentist will place the new crown carefully to ensure that spacing and bite are accurate. You will receive instructions for care and cleaning before you are sent home with a beautiful, enhanced smile.