We generally place dental crowns when a tooth is too severely damaged or weak to be supported by a filling. A crown is a restoration that fits over your tooth to restore function and protect it from damage. Dental crowns are also used to restore dental implants.
Dental crowns at our Reno, NV office are made using either porcelain or zirconia. Porcelain crowns are highly esthetic because they look very much like a natural tooth. We would usually place a porcelain crown on your front teeth or other teeth that are visible when you smile. Zirconia is an extremely durable material that is most appropriate for molars and teeth that take a lot of wear and tear.
If we determine that a crown is appropriate for you, Dr. Barrett will start by preparing your natural tooth. Then he will take impressions of your teeth, which will be used to create your new crown. We will prepare a temporary crown for you to wear while your new permanent crown is being made. After about two weeks, when your final crown is ready, we’ll have you return to our office to make any adjustments and then permanently place the crown.
The result is a beautiful “new” tooth and restored ability to chew normally. If you would like to learn more about dental crowns, please give us a call!