Dental Crowns at Advanced Dental Windham ME - Structures That Want Strength

Tooth decay can weaken a tooth over time, leading to fractures, the need for a large filling, or simply the effects of aging. When a tooth loses its strength, a dentist often employs a dental crown to restore its shape and function. High-quality crowns are among the best restorative treatments available from Dr. Armstrong at Advanced Dental in Windham ME.

All functional restorations are precisely adjusted to ensure stability and aesthetics, aligning with the patient's natural teeth during crown treatment.

---

About Dental Crowns

A dental crown, or cap, is a custom-made covering that fits over the entire visible part of a tooth. It helps protect the tooth and restore its normal function and appearance. Dentists recommend crowns for teeth that cannot be fixed well with a regular filling.

Crowns are made from strong, safe materials like porcelain, ceramics, or metal alloys. Porcelain and ceramic crowns are often preferred because they look and feel like natural teeth, making them suitable for both front and back teeth.

At Advanced Dental, we provide crowns that match the shape and size of nearby teeth. This way, crowns look natural while maintaining their function.

---

When Should a Dental Crown Be Used?

Dental crowns can be used for both restorative and cosmetic purposes. They are typically recommended in the following situations:

• Severely Decayed Teeth: If a filling is no longer sufficient, a crown can completely cover and protect the tooth.
• Cracked or Fractured Teeth: These teeth are at risk of further damage. A crown helps stabilize and prevent additional fractures.
• Large Fillings: When a tooth has a large filling and not much structure remains, a crown can provide the necessary support.
• After Root Canal Treatment: Teeth can become brittle after root canal therapy, so crowns are placed to prevent breakage.
• Worn Teeth: Clenching or grinding can reduce tooth height and compromise their strength; crowns can restore both height and function.
• Aesthetic Improvement: Crowns can enhance the appearance of discolored or misshapen teeth, improving their color, shape, and overall symmetry.
• Dental Implants: A crown serves as the visible restoration attached to a dental implant, effectively functioning as a replacement tooth.

We also evaluate the condition of the tooth and surrounding gum tissue, and how this affects overall bite alignment.

---

Types of Dental Crowns

Crowns vary from one type to another based on the material and purpose, which are personalized to the aesthetics of each individual patient. With that, Advanced Dental offers several crown options for patients, depending on their needs.

1. Porcelain Crowns

Porcelain crowns are great for your smile because they look natural and are easy to see. They match the translucency and texture of your natural teeth very well.

2. Ceramic Crowns

Ceramic crowns are like porcelain but made with newer materials that resist stains and wear. They are strong and safe for those with metal sensitivities.

3. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns

PFM crowns have a metal base that makes them strong, topped with porcelain for a natural look. They are usually used for back teeth, where both strength and appearance matter.

4. All Metal Crowns

All-metal crowns are made from gold or other metal alloys. They are very durable and are often used for molars that need to withstand a lot of chewing pressure.

5. Zirconia Crowns

Zirconia crowns are the strongest and most chip-resistant option. They are suitable for any tooth, combining good looks with strength.

Dr. Armstrong recommends the best crown type based on the tooth's location, material preference, and functional requirements.

---

The Procedure for Dental Crown

At Advanced Dental, we take several clear steps to ensure your comfort during a dental crown procedure.

Step 1: Examination and Consultation 

Dr. Armstrong will examine your tooth and decide if a crown is the right treatment. To help with this, we might take X-rays to check the tooth roots and the surrounding bone.

Step 2: Tooth Preparation 

We will remove any damaged parts of your tooth and shape it to support the crown. This ensures a proper fit. If a lot of the tooth is missing, we may need to use a core buildup to strengthen the tooth before placing the crown.

Step 3: Impression and Temporary Crown 

We will take an impression of your prepared tooth to create an exact mold. This mold goes to a dental lab to make your permanent crown. In the meantime, we will fit you with a temporary crown to protect your tooth and help you function normally.

Step 4: Crown Fabrication 

The dental lab will custom-make your crown according to the needed design, shade, shape, and fit so it matches your other teeth.

Step 5: Crown Placement 

When your permanent crown is ready, Dr. Armstrong will remove the temporary crown and check the fit and bite. We will make any necessary adjustments before we permanently cement the crown in place.

Step 6: Final Evaluation 

Finally, Dr. Armstrong will ensure that your crown fits well, feels comfortable, and lines up correctly with your other teeth. You will receive care instructions to help keep your crown in good condition.

---

Schedule a Dental Crown Consultation

If you have a damaged, weakened, or worn tooth that requires restoration, a dental crown may be the ideal solution. At Advanced Dental in Windham ME, Dr. Stanley D. Armstrong provides precise, long-lasting crowns crafted to restore both strength and comfort.

Schedule your consultation today by calling (207) 892-8325.