What exactly is a crown?

A crown (or cap) is a covering that encases the entire tooth surface, restoring it to its original shape and size. Think of a crown as a protective cap that hugs your tooth, restoring its natural strength and beauty. A crown protects and strengthens tooth structure that cannot be restored with fillings or other types of restorations. They are highly durable and will last many years, but like most dental restorations, they may eventually need to be replaced. While we offer several types of crowns at Centennial Smiles, most of our patients choose porcelain crowns because they're designed to match your natural teeth in shape, size, and color. The result? A seamlessly beautiful smile that's built to last.

Here are a few reasons you might need one.

• Broken or fractured teeth
• Decayed teeth
• Cosmetic enhancement
• Fractured fillings
• Large fillings
• Tooth has a root canal

What does the procedure involve?

A crown procedure usually requires two appointments. Your first appointment will include taking several highly accurate molds (or impressions) that will be used to create your custom crown. A mold will also be used to create a temporary crown which will stay on your tooth for approximately two weeks until your new crown is fabricated by a dental laboratory.

While the tooth is numb, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping the surface to properly fit the crown. Once these details are accomplished, your temporary crown will be placed with temporary cement and your bite will be checked to ensure you are biting properly.

At your second appointment, your temporary crown will be removed, the tooth will be cleaned, and your new crown will be carefully placed to ensure the spacing and bite are accurate.

You will be given care instructions and encouraged to have regular dental visits to check your new crown.

What are the primary benefits of Dental Crowns?

• Dental crowns provide complete protection. By covering your entire tooth surface, a crown shields your damaged tooth from further decay or injury while restoring its full strength and function.
• The results look completely natural. Our porcelain crowns are carefully crafted to match your natural teeth in color, shape, and size, ensuring your smile remains beautiful and seamless.
• Crowns offer long-lasting durability. With proper care and regular check-ups, your crown can protect and enhance your smile for many years.
• You'll regain full dental function. After crown placement, you can eat, speak, and smile with confidence, knowing your tooth is securely protected.
• Crowns are a versatile solution. Whether you need to protect a weak tooth, cover a dental implant, or improve aesthetics, crowns can address multiple dental concerns in one comprehensive treatment.