Some patients call dental crowns “caps” because they are used to entirely cover or “cap” a damaged tooth. But there is no difference between a cap and a crown. They are one in the same. A dental crown is the “official” term for this type of dental restoration.

A crown is a permanent restoration that is created in a dental lab.  While dental veneers are used for most cosmetic cases sometimes a dental crown can also be used to improve the appearance of a tooth by changing its shape, color or alignment. Crowns are also placed over dental implants to replace missing teeth.

A dentist will recommend a crown when:

• A tooth has fractured
• When a cavity or replacement filling is so big that not enough tooth is left for a strong restoration
• To replace a tooth using a dental implant
• For cosmetic purposes when a tooth needs more reshaping than is possible using dental veneers
• To restore a tooth that has had a root canal

Depending upon where the tooth needing the crown is located you may be able to have your dental crown made in just one visit thanks to our CEREC. This amazing machine creates a custom porcelain crown right in our own office.

Many crowns are made in dental labs which will require two visits to the office. During the first visit your tooth will be prepared for the crown, impressions will be taken and a temporary crown placed in your mouth. The dental laboratory will create your crown and send it to us. You will return to the office where we will remove the temporary crown and cement the permanent restoration in place. Your bite will be tested to make sure that all of your teeth are fitting together properly with the new crown in place. With good home oral hygiene care your dental crown will last for many years.

Please contact StoneRidge Dental Care in Gahanna, OH at 614-476-6696 today to schedule your appointment for your dental crown.