Porcelain Crowns (Caps)

Why Might You Need a Crown?

Porcelain crowns are used to:

• • Restore broken, cracked, or fractured teeth

• • Enhance the appearance of misshapen or discolored teeth

• • Protect and strengthen a weakened tooth

• • Restore a tooth with extensive decay that cannot support a filling

• • Replace a large filling that has failed or fractured

• • Cover a tooth after a root canal treatment

• • Anchor a dental bridge to replace missing teeth

The Process of Getting a Porcelain Crown

A porcelain crown placement typically requires two visits to complete:

First Appointment: Tooth Preparation & Temporary Crown

• • Impressions & X-Rays: Molds are taken to create a precise replica of your tooth for your custom crown.

• • Tooth Preparation: The damaged portion of the tooth is removed, and the tooth is reshaped to accommodate the crown.

• • Temporary Crown: A temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth while your permanent crown is being custom-made at a dental laboratory.

Second Appointment: Final Crown Placement

• • Removing the Temporary Crown: The temporary crown is removed, and the prepared tooth is thoroughly cleaned.

• • Fitting the Permanent Crown: Your custom crown is carefully placed to ensure proper fit, spacing, and bite alignment.

• • Cementing the Crown: Once the fit is perfect, the crown is permanently bonded to your tooth for a secure and natural-looking restoration.

How Long Do Porcelain Crowns Last?

With proper care, porcelain crowns can last between 10 to 15 years or longer. Routine dental checkups, good oral hygiene, and avoiding habits like biting hard objects can help extend the life of your crown.

Caring for Your Porcelain Crown

Brush and floss daily to keep the crowned tooth and surrounding gums healthy.

Avoid chewing on hard foods (such as ice or hard candies) to prevent chipping or cracking.

Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth to protect your crown from excessive wear.

Visit your dentist regularly for exams to ensure your crown remains in good condition.

Are Porcelain Crowns Right for You?

If you have a damaged, weakened, or cosmetically flawed tooth, a porcelain crown can provide long-lasting strength and a natural appearance. At Lisa J. McDonald, DMD & Associates, we use the latest dental materials and techniques to create custom crowns that blend seamlessly with your smile.

Schedule a consultation today to restore your tooth’s function and beauty with a durable, natural-looking porcelain crown.