Cosmetic Dentist

Questions about Dental Crowns

Cosmetic DentistAnchor Point, serving Homer and Kenai Peninsula, Alaska

What is a porcelain crown?

A porcelain crown, also called a ‘cap’, strengthens the tooth's structure when fractured, broken or decayed, when a root canal has been performed, or when numerous cosmetic procedures have been performed on the tooth. A dental crown can be used to:

  • Protect a weak tooth
  • Restore a broken or worn down tooth
  • Cover and support part of a tooth with a large filling
  • Hold a dental bridge in place
  • Cover misshaped or severely discolored teeth
  • Cover a dental implant

Will my crown be noticeable?

Before the procedure, Dr. Bartley will match the color of the crown to the exact shade of your teeth.  Once your dental work is complete, the restoration will be virtually undetectable.

How does a crown feel?

A dental crown appears and fits like a natural tooth. Because the shape of the crown is slightly different from your natural tooth shape, you may be ‘feeling’ the crown at first. The crown might need adjustment if it feels uncomfortable. But within a few days you’ll forget it’s even there.

Will my crown have to be redone?

A porcelain crown is bonded in place and meant to last ten to fifteen years.  How long the crown will last depends upon how well it is cared for. While the crown itself cannot decay, decay can begin at the edges of the crown. Keep this area clean and your crown should last.

Why have crowns instead of a filling?

A filling is meant to fix a cavity by replacing the missing portion of decay with a substance to protect the nerves and restore the tooth to usefulness.  However, when there is not enough of a tooth left to support a filling, or the tooth has been broken, a crown is the procedure to make the tooth appear whole again, protect the underlying tooth and give it the strength.

What is involved in getting a crown?

First, Dr. Bartley shapes what remains of the original tooth. An impression of the tooth is taken and sent to a lab that manufactures crowns. Dr. Bartley places a temporary crown over the original tooth. On the second visit, the crown is fitted over the remains of the original tooth, to restore it to strength and a more natural appearance.

To learn more about crowns, please contact Dr. Jeffrey Bartley today for your consultation. Dr. Bartley serves cosmetic dentistry patients in Anchor Point and the Kenai Peninsula areas of Alaska.

 

(907)226-3700
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34115 Sterling Hwy.
Anchor Point, AK 99556