A dental crown is a dental restoration that covers a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, or appearance. Crowns are typically made from porcelain or ceramic and are ideal for repairing cracked, chipped, or misshapen teeth. They are bonded to the natural tooth and can last for many years with proper care. Crowns are an ideal option for restoring the function and appearance of your smile.

Ancient dental crowns have been found in several civilizations, including the Etruscans, Babylonians, and Egyptians. The crowns of these cultures were typically made from gold, silver, or other precious metals. While dental crowns were once reserved for royalty and the wealthy, modern dental crowns are available to anyone who needs them. And thanks to advances in dental technology, dental crowns can match the exact shade of your natural teeth while improving your oral health.

If your child or teen needs a crown and you’re searching online for dental crowns Denver, dental crowns Aurora or dental crowns near me, our dental office can help. To book an appointment, call (303) 953-8801 or complete the online booking form

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Why Do I Need A Crown?

There are several reasons why your dentist may recommend a crown.

  • To restore a chipped or broken tooth
  • To support a dental bridge
  • To cover a dental implant
  • To improve the appearance of misshapen or discolored teeth
  • To support a weak tooth with little natural tooth structure

Do Children Need Crowns?

While crowns are most often used to restore the teeth of adults, they may also be used to restore the primary teeth of a child. Crowns are the most common dental restoration used to save baby teeth damaged by decay and cannot be repaired with a filling.

Temporary vs. Permanent

Dental crowns can be either temporary or permanent. Temporary crowns are typically made from acrylic or stainless steel and are used to protect a tooth while a permanent dental crown is being made. Permanent crowns are made from porcelain, ceramic, or other materials that match the color of your natural teeth.

Types of Crowns

Many different types of crowns are available in many different materials. The type of crown that is right for you will be determined by your dental needs and budget.

Porcelain Crowns

Porcelain crowns are the most popular type of crown. They are made from a porcelain-based material that closely resembles the color and translucency of natural teeth. Porcelain crowns are durable and long-lasting and can be used to restore both front and back teeth.

Testing room

Porcelain Fused to Metal (PFM) Crowns

Porcelain Fused to Metal crowns are made from a metal base with a porcelain overlay. They are strong and durable and can be used to restore back teeth. PFM crowns are available in several different tooth-colored options to match adjacent teeth.

Metal Crowns

Stainless steel or metal crowns are made from a stainless steel material. They are most often used to restore baby teeth but can also be used to restore adult teeth. Stainless steel crowns are strong and durable but are not as realistic looking as other dental crowns and work well for molars. Generally, this type of crown is used for most Medicaid-covered procedures.

Ceramic Crowns

Ceramic crowns are made from pure ceramic material. They are matched to the exact shade of your natural teeth and are a good option for people with metal allergies. Pressed ceramic crowns are made from a pressed ceramic material that is stronger than traditional ceramic crowns.

Zirconia Crowns

Zirconia crowns are made from a strong, durable material. They are white in color and closely resemble the appearance of natural teeth. Zirconia crowns are also less likely to cause allergic reactions than other types of dental crowns. Zirconia is also more resistant to forceful chewing and grinding than ceramics. When properly cared for, Zirconia restorations can endure a lifetime of use.

Gold Crowns

Gold crowns are made from a gold alloy. While they are rarely used, gold crowns are often used to restore posterior teeth, usually for aesthetic reasons.

Onlay Crowns

An onlay dental crown is a type of dental restoration that covers the biting surface of a tooth. Onlay crowns save most of the tooth structure and can be made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, and composite resin. They are more cost-effective than full crowns and can be used to restore the function and appearance of your teeth.

Inlay Crowns

An inlay crown is a type of dental restoration that covers the biting surface of a tooth. Inlays are similar to onlays but are used when there is less damage to the tooth. They are more cost-effective than crowns and can be used to restore the function and appearance of your teeth.

3/4 Crowns

As the name suggests, a 3/4 crown covers three-quarters of the tooth. It is used to restore a tooth that is damaged but does not need a full dental crown. The tooth’s entire biting surface is covered with either ceramic or porcelain, as well as a portion of the tooth that sits adjacent to the tongue.

The First Visit

The First Visit

A dental crown procedure usually requires two visits to the dentist. During the first visit, the tooth is prepared for the crown. This involves removing decay or damage and shaping the tooth so the crown can be placed over it. The amount removed will depend on the type of dental crown being used.

A dental impression is then taken of the prepared tooth. This impression is used to create a tooth model, which is then used to create the dental crown.

To protect the tooth while the crown is being made, a temporary crown is placed over the tooth. The temporary crown is usually made from acrylic or stainless steel and secured with temporary cement.

The permanent crown may be created in the clinic or a dental laboratory and take up to two weeks to make.

(Note: Avoid sticky chewy foods with a temporary crown. They can cause the crown to come off. Avoid hard foods that can crack or dislodge the dental crown.)

The Second Visit

During the second visit, the temporary crown is removed with a tool called a crown tractor. The permanent crown is placed over the tooth and secured with cement and a curing light, depending on the bonding material. Excess cement is removed around the crown and from the gum line. The crown is checked for fit and bite and then adjusted as necessary.

Once the crown is in place, you can eat and drink normally. Your dentist will give you a list of post-operative guidelines you must follow after receiving your crown.

Caring for Dental Crowns

Dental crowns require the same care as your natural teeth. This means brushing twice a day and flossing once a day. It is also important to see your dentist for regular dental checkups and cleanings. With proper care, crowns can last for many years.

Are There Any Risks?

The First Visit

Crowns are generally safe, and infections and allergic reactions are rare. The most common complication is the crown coming loose or falling out. Crowns can sometimes irritate your gums and cause them to become inflamed. Gum recession can also occur. This is when the gum tissue around the dental crown starts to pull away from the tooth. If this happens, you may need to have the dental crown replaced.

Dental Crowns In Denver

If you are searching online for dental crowns Denver, dental crowns Aurora or dental crowns near me, we can help. We offer a variety of dental crowns to restore the function and appearance of your teeth. At Youth Dental and Vision, our priority is helping your child or teen keep that beautiful smile. Our caring dental team is here to answer any of your questions!

Visit us in Denver at Denver Youth Dental and Vision and Hampden Youth Dental and Orthodontics. We also serve the Thornton and Aurora population. Visit us at Aurora Youth Dental and Vision and Thornton Youth Dentistry. We aim to help you make the best decision for your child’s smile. To schedule an appointment, call (303) 953-8801 or complete the online booking form. We look forward to helping you with your dental needs!

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

Dental crowns can last for many years with proper care. In some cases, dental crowns may need to be replaced due to wear and tear.

How Much Do Dental Crowns Cost?

The cost of dental crowns varies depending on the type of dental crown used and the dental insurance coverage. We can discuss all costs and finance options available.

Will I Need a Root Canal?

If the tooth that needs a dental crown has decay or is infected, a root canal may be needed. Your dentist will discuss this with you during your consultation.

Do Dental Crowns Hurt?

No, dental crowns should not hurt. Your dentist will use local anesthesia to numb the area before placing the crown. You may experience discomfort during and after the procedure, but this should subside within a few days.