Dental Crowns
Dalton, GA
A dental crown, sometimes called a "cap" is a restoration that provides a completely new surface for the entire visible portion of the tooth. A dental crown can protect a fractured, infected, or otherwise severely damaged tooth. It can help preserve your natural teeth so you don't have to extract them. A well-made crown will make your smile more functional, healthier, and more attractive and can last may years.
When Are Dental Crowns Used?
Dental crowns are used in any situation where your tooth is severely damaged and either has or is likely to fail when chewing. Dental crowns allow teeth with a good dental root but a damaged visible portion of the tooth (confusingly also referred to as the "crown") to remain functional. The most common situations where a crown is used are:
- Teeth weakened by decay and/or the presence of large fillings
- Broken or worn teeth that are in danger of exposing the nerve
- After a root canal, a dental crown is used to seal the operated tooth
- To improve the appearance of an unattractive tooth
- To top a dental implant with a fully functional tooth.
No matter the reason for your dental crown, the result is both functional and highly aesthetic.
Crowns-in-a-Day
In the past, if you required a dental crown, an impression would be taken of your teeth and sent to a dental lab where the crown would be custom-crafted and shipped back to your dentist. You would wear a temporary crown until the permanent crown was ready. This is still an option, and can be used when the absolute best in aesthetic results is demanded, but most crowns can be crafted while you wait using our CEREC machine. CEREC is a computer-controlled manufacturing process that allows Dr. Patrick Im to design your crown from a digital impression while you sit in the chair. Then the crown is milled from a block of color-matched porcelain while you wait. Once it is ready, the crown can be fitted to your tooth.
With no need to wait weeks, no need for a temporary crown, and no need for a second visit, crowns in a day is the most convenient way to get your dental crowns.
How to Get Your Crown
If you need a dental crown, we can help. Please schedule a consultation at the Dalton, Georgia office of Beautiful Smiles by Design today to learn more about your dental crown options.