When the stability and health of your tooth is at risk, you may benefit from the placement of a restoration, such as a dental crown. We actually offer several different types of these restorations. What are crowns made of? Do they all look natural? You may be surprised by all the different options available for a single form of restoration.
When Do You Need a Restoration?
There are actually a number of different scenarios in which we may recommend a restoration, such as:
- Chipped or fractured teeth
- Advanced tooth decay
- Dental infection
- Misshapen teeth
As you can see, a restoration offers both restorative and often cosmetic capabilities.
The Placement Process
First, the doctor prepares the tooth by removing a small amount of structure. Detailed impressions are then taken of the tooth. The impressions are sent to a special dental lab, where the crown will be fabricated. You may be prescribed a temporary crown during this period between visits. When you return to the office, the doctor will check the fit and make any necessary adjustments. Finally, the dentist uses a powerful bonding agent to place the dental crown. The entire process takes as little as two visits.
What are They Made Of?
We actually make them from a number of different materials. For teeth that are near the front, we may use all ceramic, as this is the most lifelike material available. Ceramic can actually be shaded to better blend with your smile and the material offers the same translucent appearance as natural enamel. For teeth near the back, which must endure greater forces and bite pressures, we may suggest metal or porcelain-fused-to-metal. We can also place zirconia, a very strong material that offers the same lifelike appearance as ceramic. If you have any questions about our restorations and the materials we use to make them, contact our office today.
ABOUT YOUR ASTORIA, NY, DENTIST:
Jeffrey Leibowitz, DDS, a native New Yorker, has welcomed patients and families from in and around Astoria, NY (including Queens, Manhattan, Brooklyn, and all surrounding communities) since opening his dental practice in 1991. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Leibowitz, call our office in Astoria today at 718-728-8320.
