Custom-Made Dental Crowns Can Repair Your Bite and Smile
If you have one or more damaged teeth, Dr. Stephen K. Malone or his associate may recommend dental crowns at our Knoxville practice. These tooth-shaped restorations fit over damaged teeth to restore form and functionality. They come in a range of materials, including lifelike dental porcelain. They can strengthen weakened teeth, cover up cavities that are too large for fillings, and repair broken teeth. In some cases, your dentist may also recommend a crown for cosmetic enhancement. For example, if you have an irregularly shaped tooth, a crown can give you a more even smile. Our skilled onsite ceramist will make sure your crown blends with your smile and maintains your bite alignment. To learn more about dental crowns and to find out how they can enhance your smile and dental function, contact our office today.
What Are Dental Crowns?
Crowns come in several different materials. Metal crowns are extremely strong, and they could last the rest of your life. However, they will not blend with your natural teeth. Porcelain-fused-to-metal restorations have an outer coating that will match your smile. Over time, however, the metal may start to show through. All-porcelain crowns offer the most lifelike appearance, and newer forms of porcelain provide greater stability and durability than ever before.
The Dental Crown Procedure
Before he can place a crown, Dr. Malone or his associate will reshape your tooth. By trimming away a small amount of your dental structure, he can make room for the restoration. He will numb your tooth and gums before performing this procedure, so you should experience little discomfort, if any. Then we will make an impression and photos of your tooth. A provisional (temporary) crown of acrylic will be made and placed on your prepared tooth. Dr. Malone and you will “test out” the shape and size of the provisional crown to make sure it’s form and function are ideal. You will wear the provisional crown while your definitive crown is created in the lab by our ceramist who trained at the esteemed Pankey Institute with Dr. Malone. Together, they will collaborate to ensure your crown is perfect. When your beautiful, lifelike restoration is complete, you will return for your second appointment. At that time, Dr. Malone will remove the provisional crown and permanently attach your custom crown.
How Dental Crowns Can Benefit You
Dental crowns have both practical and aesthetic importance. Their uses include:
- Repairing dental damage: Crowns can repair broken, cracked, decayed, and otherwise weakened teeth. They can also restore functionality following root canal therapy.
- Replacing missing teeth: An implant-supported crown can permanently replace both your tooth and your dental root. Additionally, crowns can support a traditional dental bridge.
- Improving your bite: Placed on top of a worn or irregularly shaped tooth, a crown can enhance the force and balance of your bite. In this way, it can also reduce your risk for TMJ Disorder.
- Enhancing your smile: A crown can enhance the appearance of a chipped, internally stained, or oddly shaped tooth.
Enjoy Improved Dental Health
Restore your bite and smile in just two office visits. Contact our office today to learn more about crowns and to schedule your appointment. Dr. Malone offers restorative treatment to patients in the greater Knoxville area, including Powell, Karns, Farragut, Seymour, Maryville, and Oak Ridge.