Dental Crowns Specialist

Northwest Dental and Denture

General Dentists located in Everett, WA & Bellingham, WA

Dental crowns are common. In fact, according to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry 15 million people in the United States have crowns to replace missing teeth. The dentists at Northwest Dental are experienced professionals, so if you think you may need a crown, book an appointment at one of their Washington locations -- Bellingham, Burlington, Arlington, Everett, or Oak Harbor.

Dental Crowns Q & A

What is a crown?

A crown is a cover for a damaged tooth. It is sculpted to the shape of the original tooth and can improve its appearance and strength. The crown fits over the tooth and is cemented into place so that the original tooth is completely encased.

Who needs a dental crown?

The dentists at Northwest Dental may recommend a crown in a variety of situations. A crown can cover a dental implant or a discolored or oddly-shaped tooth.

In addition to making a tooth look better, a crown can provide support to a natural tooth. Teeth that are weakened by excessively large fillings or that are in danger of breaking can be strengthened by crowns.

Whether you need a crown for cosmetic reasons or to strengthen weakened or broken teeth, a dental crown can protect teeth.

Are there different kinds of crowns?

Crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including:

Stainless steel
Gold or another alloy
Porcelain fused to metal
Resin
Ceramic

The choice of material depends on multiple factors. For example, stainless steel is often used to make temporary crowns. Stainless steel crowns are often prefabricated and are a frequent choice for children who need crowns on baby teeth.

Metal crowns are strong and able to withstand the force of biting and chewing, but because of their color, they’re usually reserved for use in the back of the mouth.

Porcelain fused to metal crowns look more like natural teeth than metal crowns but have some drawbacks. For example, the opposing teeth may endure more wear than they would with other types of crowns, and the metal portion of the crown may show as a dark line near the gums.

All-resin crowns are generally a less expensive option, but are also more prone to cracking, whereas all-ceramic crowns are the best option for people who have metal allergies.

What should I expect when I get a crown?

Most of the time, a minimum of two visits are necessary for a dental crown procedure. During the first visit, your Northwest Dental professional takes some X-rays to ascertain the condition of the tooth that’s getting a crown.

Next, your dentist will administer anesthesia, then file down or build up the tooth so that the crown can be attached properly. After that, the dentist will make an impression of your teeth, which a lab will use to manufacture the crown. Your dentist will make a temporary crown protect your tooth until the permanent crown can be put into place.

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