Whether you need a new dental crown or an old one replaced, The Stein Center for Advanced Dentistry will provide you with a custom-made, natural-looking restoration. Installing a dental crown is a fairly routine and common procedure. Our dental care team often uses them to help protect a natural tooth that is weak from damage. Dentists often refer dental crowns as ‘tooth caps’ because they cover the entire tooth like a cap. They are custom-made to blend in naturally with the rest of your smile.
We typically place zirconia or porcelain crowns for the best possible result. Zirconia provides a highly durable, metal-free option that can withstand strong biting forces. We are able to match Zirconia with the color of your other teeth, and the smooth surface of this material offers a comfortable fit.
Trusted dentists Dr. Abraham Stein and Dr. Zachary Weiss welcome patients from Evanston, IL. If you are suffering from a damaged tooth or need a new crown, visit our dentist office for a one-on-one consultation with one of our dentists.
About Dental Crowns in Evanston, IL
A traditional dental crown can serve many purposes, from restorative to cosmetic, and will last for several years. It is a fixed dental restoration and is permanent because the dentist will need to reduce the tooth to accommodate it. Master ceramists fabricate our crowns using impressions of your teeth to guarantee a precise fit. Dr. Stein and Dr. Weiss will recommend a crown for the following restorative reasons:
- Strengthen a tooth after a root canal
- Replace an old, broken or worn down large cavity
- Repair a broken or cracked tooth
A dentist can also utilize a ceramic tooth crown for a few cosmetic reasons. A ceramic crown is an affordable substitute for a porcelain veneer. The cosmetic concerns that ceramic crowns can treat include:
- Improve the appearance of a misshaped or crooked tooth
- Whiten teeth by hiding stained or yellow teeth
- Close the gaps between teeth
- Lengthen teeth that are too short
A traditional dental crown consists of either metal or porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM). It is more durable and stronger than a ceramic crown, but it may cause discoloration around the gum line. A ceramic dental crown consists of all-ceramic material. It is a natural-looking option for people who want a more aesthetic option, but it is not quite as durable as traditional crowns.
The Dental Crown Process in Evanston, IL
The dental crown process is a fairly routine procedure but will require several trips to our Evanston, IL area dentist office. During your examination, Dr. Stein and Dr. Weiss may determine that you need a tooth crown after a comprehensive evaluation of your teeth. You will then schedule the first of two appointments. Your dentist will prepare a personalized treatment plan that addresses your tooth damage as well as your cosmetic goals.
At your first crown appointment, Dr. Stein and Dr. Weiss will take several sets of impressions of your teeth and prepare the tooth. We will remove the old filling or crown first. Then, your dentist will begin to remove a small portion of the enamel. The dentist will also remove all decay or damage to the tooth. It is important to remove enough of the tooth structure to accommodate the new tooth cap.
Once we reduce enough of the tooth, we will create and place a temporary crown. The purpose of the temporary crown is to protect the tooth and allow it to function normally until we have your final restoration ready. It should take the dental laboratory about two weeks to create the permanent crown.
At your last crown appointment, Dr. Stein or Dr. Weiss will remove the temporary and place the custom fabricated dental crown. We may thoroughly clean your gums and teeth before placing it. The permanent dental crown stays in place with strong dental adhesive. Lastly, Your dentist will put the final touches on your new tooth by gently shaping, smoothing and polishing the crown.
Do Dental Crowns Require Special Care?
Dental crowns require no special maintenance. You can clean and care for your dental crowns just like your natural teeth. Brushing and flossing twice a day, and bi-annual dental cleanings and checkups should keep your dental crown healthy and stable for years to come.
Is it Painful to Have A Dental Crown Put on Your Tooth?
No. The dental crown process is no more painful than the dental filling process. You will not feel pain because of the use of local anesthesia. We will also make sure you are fully comfortable before we begin. You can address any discomfort felt after the treatment with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Can You Repair A Chipped Crown?
Yes. Your dentist can repair minor chips and damage to porcelain crowns. We can color-match the repair so that it looks as natural as possible. Your dentist can also replace the porcelain crown if it has chipped too much, or has come off completely. This issue is something to address as soon as possible.