What Are Dental Crowns?

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped, custom-fabricated cap placed over a tooth, either for protection or cosmetic enhancement. They can restore a tooth’s size, shape, improve its overall appearance.

Why Is a Dental Crown Needed?

Dental crowns are utilized for many reasons, including:

• Restore a chipped, cracked, or worn-down tooth
• Protect a weak tooth
• Support a dental bridge
• Cover a tooth with a large filling
• Cover a dental implant
• Conceal misshaped or discolored teeth

From tooth damage to aesthetic concerns, dental crowns can safeguard your teeth and help create a beautiful, healthy smile.

Types of Dental Crowns

Crowns can be created from various materials based on your individual needs and preferences. These include:

• All-Ceramic Crowns 

All Ceramic/Porcelain crowns are closest in appearance to natural tooth enamel and can be color-matched to your existing tooth shade. In recent years, the strength and appearance of these types have improved remarkably, and they are the MOST USED type of crown material.

• Porcelain Fused to Metal Crowns (PFM) 

Porcelain fused to a metal core is more robust than all-ceramic crowns, but they can appear darker in some light situations. These type of crowns are rarely used anymore due to the huge advancements in all-ceramic crown materials.

• Metal Crowns 

Metal crowns are strong, are made from High Noble metal (ie. Gold alloy). They come in yellow or white gold. Dr. Robichaux may suggest this type of crown if you have a heavy bite.

How to Prepare for a Crown Placement?

Preparing a tooth for a crown placement generally requires two visits to our dental office. During the first visit, Dr. Jacob Robichaux will take X-rays to examine the roots of the tooth and its surrounding bone to make sure there is no decay or risk of infection. If no concerns are identified, we will administer a local anesthetic to numb the affected area before prepping the tooth for the new crown.

Once the tooth has been reshaped, we will capture the tooth’s impression and send it to our dental lab for its fabrication. We will also ensure your crown is color-matched with your existing teeth. Meanwhile, we will fit you with a temporary crown to protect your prepared tooth while waiting for your new restoration.

We will remove your temporary crown at your second visit and bond your permanent crown into position using dental adhesives.

To learn more about our crown restorations, visit the Robichaux Family Dentistry office at 235 Corporate Dr, Houma, LA 70360. You can also reach us at (985) 580-3200 and schedule an appointment.