What are crowns?
Dental crowns are devices used to cap damaged or decayed teeth. They are secured using a special bonding adhesive. These devices cover the entire visible section of a tooth. They are often used when the tooth has already suffered some damage. Crowns can improve the look teeth which have been chipped or cracked or stained. They also strengthen the tooth. Crowns are usually made from porcelain or ceramic and can be color-matched to look like natural teeth. They can also be used to top dental implants and will be one solid piece instead of covering.
What can a crown correct?
Crowns can be used to:
- Protect anchor teeth for a bridge
- Protect a weakened or damaged tooth
- Replace a large or failing filling
- Restore a discolored tooth
- Cap a misshapen tooth
- Cover a tooth which has been through root canal therapy
- Replace a missing tooth when topping an implant
When cared for properly, crowns should last a while. If an issue ever does arise, your dentist can fix or replace the crown.
What are veneers?
Veneers are used to correct issues which affect the front surface of teeth. They are also made from porcelain or ceramic but only cover the front portions of the affected tooth. Veneers are created to look and feel like natural teeth. This makes veneers ideal for treating:
- Discoloration
- Spaces between teeth
- Pits
- Cracks or small fractures
- Chips
- Uneven tooth edges
- Small looking teeth
How are veneers applied?
During the first visit, the tooth will be prepared by cleaning it and shaving down a thin layer of enamel to make enough space for the veneer. An impression of the tooth is made and then sent to a lab where the veneer is shaped to the exact specifications. A temporary veneer is placed on the tooth to protect it between appointments. When ready, the permanent veneer will be adhered using the same type of bonding agent which secures crowns. The veneer is then buffed until smooth.
