Crowns/Veneers

If your tooth requires a more extensive restoration, Dr. V or Dr. Megan may prescribe a crown.  A crown is a full cover or “cap” for your tooth.  It gives your tooth back its shape, size, function, and color.  There are various reasons a crown may be recommended:

• Restoring an advanced cavity or fracture that is too large for a filling
• Restoring and strengthening a tooth after a root canal
• Restoring a tooth that is cracked or worn down
• Covering a severely misshaped or discolored tooth

Crowns may be made of many different materials such as porcelain, zirconia, metal/gold alloys, or a combination of these materials.  They are made in several steps, and require at least two dental visits.  In the first visit, Dr. V or Dr. Megan will shape your tooth by removing its outer portion so the crown will fit completely over your tooth.  Then, they will make an impression or molding for the dental laboratory to use during the fabrication of your custom, permanent crown.  While your crown is being made, you will wear a temporary crown that is fit into your mouth so you are comfortable.  We will monitor your symptoms, and if there are no issues with the tooth while you are wearing your temporary crown we will have you return for a final fitting and cementation of your permanent crown within a couple of weeks.

Veneers may be used as an alternative to crowns if extensive restoration of a tooth is not required.  Veneers are thin coverings placed over the visible part of the teeth, and are specially made to make your teeth look natural.  Porcelain veneers are fabricated using a similar process as crowns, while bonded composite resin veneers can be thought of as specialized fillings and are generally fabricated directly onto your tooth in one appointment.  Dr. V and Dr. Megan will help you decide if one of these procedures is right for you.

For more information about crowns or veneers from the ADA, click the PatientSmart box below.