Crowns are often called “full-coverage crowns.” These fit over your tooth much like a marker cap. For many years, porcelain crowns have been the proven choice for restoring teeth to their original luster and function. Now, many options exist for crown material. We offer zirconia crowns, lithium disiicate crowns, ceramic crowns, and porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns. Selecting the optimal crown material is always driven by the specific situation. If you need a crown, Dr. Pinner will take the time to make sure you’re fully informed and know what to expect.
Crowns usually take two visits. At the first visit, Dr. Pinner will prep you tooth to make room for the crown. Some teeth require decay or existing failed restorations to be removed. Some teeth require a “core buildup” to give the tooth more strength. Some previously root canal treated teeth will need a fiber post to give the crown enough strength to withstand the heavy forces of chewing. After the prep is completed, we will take an impression of your tooth. Sometimes we will take a digital scan of your mouth instead of the impression. We will send the impression to the lab, and the lab will fabricate a custom crown that fits exactly in the space needed. After the impression we will place a provisional (temporary) crown to cover the tooth for a couple weeks. At the second visit, we will remove the provisional crown and meticulously check the new crown for the perfect fit. We will even take some x-rays to ensure the perfect fit. (Don’t worry, these are included in the price of the crown.) Once Dr. Pinner is satisfied with the fit and looks of the crown, we will cement the crown and review at-home hygiene instructions to help make sure your new crown will last for many years to come.
You will see many “single day crown” advertisements. These can be a great service, and Dr. Pinner has done many of them. However, they often don’t last as long as a crown made in a dental lab by a dental lab technician. It comes down to material choices. Most of the longest-lasting crown materials just can’t be fabricated in a day.