Dental Crowns

dental crowns at Gregorin Dental in Anchorage Ak

A dental crown is an artificial tooth-shaped cover or cap that completely encircles a damaged tooth or dental implant. Crowns provide a natural appearance, proper alignment and shape. The crown is cemented into place to permanently cover the entire visible portion of the exposed tooth at and above the gums. Different types of dental crown materials are available at Gregorin Dental in Anchorage AK. Options will be discussed and the right material for your specific situation will be chosen.

Dental crowns may be used to:

  • Hold a dental bridge securely in place.
  • Cover misshapen or discolored teeth.
  • Cover a dental implant with a permanent, natural-looking, artificial tooth replacement.
  • Provide a beautiful smile and cosmetic modifications.
  • Replace a failing existing crown

Types of Dental Crowns

Different types of dental crowns may be used for specific needs. Porcelain, ceramic, stainless steel and resin crowns are available. Cosmetic crowns are typically made of porcelain or ceramic. The American Dental Association (ADA) acknowledges the benefits of different types of crowns, and Gregorin Dental provides the best crown for your specific needs. A crown will protect the ongoing health of the tooth while providing a natural-looking, fully functioning and properly aligned restoration.

Tooth Crown Pain

Dental crowns may take some time to adjust to, but pain is not common. Pain may be caused if a root canal is needed. In this case, the crown would place undue pressure on the nerve. Tooth crown pain could also be caused if the patient is grinding their teeth while sleeping, or if the crown is higher than the other teeth. The bite can be evaluated and adjusted to reduce pressure. If grinding and clenching is a concern, a mouthguard will be recommended. You can try an over- the- counter one or we are happy to make a custom fitted one for you.

Patients with crowns should clean around the crown regularly, using mouthwash, a toothbrush and floss nightly. If pain continues, a visit to the dentist is recommended to explain the symptoms. Gregorin Dental may recommend a custom mouthguard, locate a high spot that could be causing a misalignment, discover an infection in the tooth under the crown or determine that a root canal is needed. It’s important to identify and address the pain immediately to prevent more extensive complications and to provide immediate relief.

Dental Crown Procedure

The Gregorin Dental crown procedure is completed during two separate dental visits. During the first appointment, the tooth is examined to determine if it can support a crown. The tooth is then prepared for the material you selected for the permanent crown. If the tooth is largely decayed or broken, the dentist will also build up the tooth to properly prepare it to hold a crown. A custom impression of the prepared tooth and the surrounding teeth is taken and sent to a lab. A temporary cap is placed over the prepared tooth until the permanent crown is ready.

During the second appointment, the dentist removes the temporary and the new crown is evaluated for fit and function. If it meets the doctor’s expectations it is permanently placed on the tooth with a dental cement. The crown can last a lifetime if it is cared for properly. Brushing, flossing and using a mouth rinse at minimum once a day and seeing the dentist and hygienist for regular checkups and cleanings at Gregorin Dental is highly recommended.

 

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