Dental Crowns and Caps

Dental crowns and caps are restorations that cover and protect damaged or weakened teeth. Made from materials such as porcelain, ceramic, metal, or resin, they restore the tooth's shape, size, and function while improving its appearance. Crowns in Sandy, UT, are often necessary after root canal treatments, large fillings, or significant tooth decay and can also support dental bridges or cover dental implants.

The procedure typically involves tooth preparation, impression taking, and temporary crown placement until the custom-made permanent crown is ready. Crowns can last many years with proper oral hygiene, but they may need replacement due to wear or damage over time. 

Types of Dental Crowns 

Porcelain Crowns 

Porcelain crowns are popular for their natural appearance, making them suitable for front teeth where aesthetics is a priority. They can be color-matched to blend in seamlessly with neighboring teeth, providing a lifelike result. Porcelain crowns are stain-resistant, biocompatible, and durable, making them a preferred choice for many patients. However, they may be more prone to wear and tear than crowns made from other materials. Contact us today to learn more.    

Ceramic Crowns 

Like porcelain crowns, ceramic crowns are highly aesthetic and provide excellent natural-looking results. They are crafted from materials like zirconia or lithium disilicate, which offer exceptional strength and durability. Ceramic crowns are a preferred choice for patients with metal allergies or sensitivities. They can withstand biting forces well and are suitable for both front and back teeth, providing a balance of aesthetics and strength. 

Metal Crowns 

Metal crowns, such as those made from gold, palladium, or base metal alloys, are known for their durability and strength. They are highly resistant to wear and fractures, making them ideal for back teeth that endure heavy chewing forces. Compared to other types, metal crowns require less tooth structure removal, preserving more of the natural tooth. However, their metallic color makes them less suitable for visible areas of the mouth, which can be a consideration for some patients. 

Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns 

PFM crowns combine the strength of metal with the aesthetic appeal of porcelain. They have a metal substructure for strength and a layer of porcelain fused to the outer surface to mimic the natural appearance of teeth. PFM crowns are versatile and can be used for front and back teeth. However, a dark line may appear at the gum line over time due to the metal substructure showing through the porcelain. 

Resin Crowns 

Resin crowns are typically the most affordable option and can be made chairside using dental resin materials. They are less durable than other types of crowns and may wear down over time, especially with heavy biting forces. Resin crowns are primarily used as temporary solutions or for restoring primary teeth in children. They offer a quick and cost-effective treatment option but may not provide the longevity or strength of other crown materials. 

The Procedure for Getting a Dental Crown 

First Visit: Tooth Preparation 

Examination and Evaluation 

• Our dentist in Sandy, UT, will conduct a thorough examination of the tooth that needs the crown. This includes assessing its overall condition and any existing decay and determining if a crown is an appropriate treatment. 

Tooth Preparation 

• Once it's decided that a crown is necessary, the dentist will begin by numbing the area around the tooth with a local anesthetic to ensure comfort throughout the procedure. 

• The tooth will be reshaped and reduced to make room for the crown. This involves trimming the outer surface and removing decayed or damaged portions. 

• The amount of tooth structure removed depends on the crown type and the extent of damage. In some cases, additional material may be added to build up a tooth if there isn't enough natural structure. 

Impression Taking 

• After the tooth is prepared, our dentist will take an impression (mold) of it. This impression creates a precise model of your tooth and its surrounding teeth, ensuring that the custom-made crown will fit comfortably and securely. 

• The impression can be taken digitally (using intraoral scanners) or with traditional putty-like material placed in a tray and pressed against your teeth. 

Temporary Crown Placement 

• Once the impression is taken, a temporary crown is placed over the prepared tooth. This temporary crown protects the tooth and helps maintain the tooth's function and appearance while the permanent crown is fabricated in a dental laboratory.  

Second Visit: Crown Placement 

Removal of Temporary Crown 

• During your second visit, the temporary crown is carefully removed. The underlying tooth is cleaned and prepared for the permanent crown. 

Crown Fitting 

• The dentist will first place the permanent crown on your tooth to check its fit and color. They will ensure that it aligns properly with your bite and that the color matches your natural teeth or other dental work (like bridges). 

Adjustments 

• Adjustments may be made to the crown's shape, size, or color to ensure a precise fit and natural appearance. This step is crucial for comfort and proper function. 

Cementing the Crown 

• Once the fit is confirmed and both you and the dentist are satisfied with the crown's look and feel, it will be permanently cemented into place. Dental cement is used to secure the crown over the prepared tooth. 

Final Checks 

• Our dentist will make final checks to ensure the crown doesn't interfere with your bite and allows for normal chewing and speaking. 

• They will also provide instructions on how to care for your new crown, including oral hygiene practices and any precautions you should take. 

Dental crowns and caps are invaluable in modern dentistry, providing restorative and aesthetic benefits. Visit Granite View Dental at 1030 E 11400 S, Suite 2, Sandy, UT 84094, or call (801) 255-2100 to determine the most suitable crown type to restore the function, appearance, and longevity of your teeth.