Dental Crowns (‘Caps’) Explained

A dental crown (sometimes referred to as a “cap”) is a tooth-shaped covering that fits over a prepared tooth. The “prepared” portion is a natural tooth that has been reshaped so the crown will fit securely over it, while conforming properly to the look and function of adjacent teeth. The crown is placed, in most cases, to restore a decayed, broken, weak or worn-down tooth. Crowns also are used to cover dental implants and root canal-treated teeth.

Typically, a dental crown is recommended for reasons such as:

• Cover and support a tooth with (or in need of) a large filling
• Protect a tooth that is cracked or fractured
• Serve as the tooth over a dental implant
• To support a bridge on either side
• Protect a tooth following a root canal
• Create tooth appearance to a gap where a tooth is missing
• Improve the appearance of a misshapen or discolored tooth

In most cases, crowns are placed when a cavity has eroded a large portion of the tooth. For example, when a cavity forms in a tooth that already has a filling, a crown is advised to protect the remaining structure rather than risk a segment breaking off. Unfortunately, this breakage can sometimes result in the need to remove the tooth, which is why crowning the tooth is highly advised. Crowns are less likely to fracture and seal the tooth better than fillings.

Too, crowns are often placed on teeth after they have undergone root canal treatment. Because a root canal removes a tooth’s internal nerve, a crown provides a secure seal and is able to manage the forces of chewing.

Dental crowns can also be placed to provide a tooth that is shaped or colored for a more beautiful smile. For example, when a “dead” tooth turns brown or gray, a crown can be placed to restore the smile to a more flattering look that blends naturally with other teeth. Or, for teeth that are overlapped or tilted, crowns can give a more correct alignment in just two or three visits.

While a crown can be made of a variety of materials, including metal, resin, and porcelain, we prefer to place crowns made of porcelain. Porcelain is one of the most durable of all materials so longevity is far better. Additionally, porcelain is more resistant to staining and provides the look and feel like that of natural teeth.

Dental crowns are generally safe and effective for restoring teeth. However, there are some potential risks and complications. For instance, tooth sensitivity, especially to hot or cold, may exist temporarily after having a crown placed. This usually subsides on its own within a few days, although it may take several weeks to go away completely.

While some dental offices have machinery to “mill” their own crowns in the office, we prefer the exceptional skills of a nationally-recognized premier dental lab. Here, crowns are custom-crafted by a highly skilled technician to precision dimensions to match the patient’s surrounding teeth.

In our Shelby Twp dental office, our patients also have the benefit of restorations placed according to the exceptional standards of neuromuscular dentistry. In neuromuscular dentistry, the harmonious interactions of structures surrounding the teeth are factored into treatment planning. This incorporates proper bite alignment to help protect the functions of jaw joints, facial muscles, etc.

Through this approach, our patients are less likely to endure costly repairs of broken or fractured teeth or the painful problems associated with TMJ disorder. These include things like frequent headaches, migraines, sore jaw joints, ear ringing, dizziness, and sore facial and neck muscles.

Having over 25 years of experience as a general dentist, I completed over 300 hours of advanced training for the designation of neuromuscular dentist. Additionally, I’ve achieved Fellowship status in the renowned LVI Institute for Advanced Dental Studies and am a member of the International Association of Physiologic Aesthetics and the Academy of General Dentistry.

Our Macomb County dental office also features some of the area’s most advanced dental technology available for individuals in need of crowns, crown & bridge, and dental implants. One is TekScan (or T-Scan). This is digital occlusal analysis technology that is far superior and accurate means of checking one’s bite alignment. Rather than rely on the method of ‘articulating paper,’ this technology shows not only where bite contact is made, it shows the measured force and the timing of occlusal surfaces coming together.

T-Scan technology can:

– Find problem areas associated with facial pain and tooth sensitivity
– Enhance longevity of crowns, bridges, and veneers
– Optimize implant placement
– Screen patients for balanced occlusion
– Reduce the need for repeat visits

Our patients appreciate seeing their bite data on the screen, giving greater understanding of how the forces on the screen correlate to what they feel in their mouths.

Our Medit i700 Digital Scanner is another technology that is ideal for patients in need of crowns, crowns & bridges, orthodontics, nightguards, dentures, dental implants, and sleep apnea devices. This hand-held piece can capture the complete structures inside the mouth (such as gum contours and tooth positions) using a high-definition, 3D-in-motion video camera.

Sent to a computer we can then rotate the images, zoom in or out, move from arch to arch, and pan around at different angles. No longer is it necessary for patients to endure the goopy, bulky trays once used to take impressions. The digital scanner provides a comfortable, fast process.

For patients in need of dental restorations, we also understand the concerns some have regarding comfort. Although we have a widespread reputation for a gentle touch, we also offer Oral Sedation and I.V. Sedation.

Oral sedation is in pill form and taken once the patient has arrived for their procedure. This sedative provides total relaxation throughout dental procedures, erasing most (if not all) memory of the procedure afterwards. After treatment, recovery is quick. Most patients leave with a refreshed feeling afterwards.

I.V. Sedation (“twilight sleep”) is also available for those who desire a deeper sedation level. Delivered through an in-the-vein drip, most patients prefer this ‘sleep state’ for lengthy or more-complex dentistry, although recovery requires more time than with oral sedation.

For both sedations, patients are carefully monitored by trained staff and special equipment throughout. We are committed to safety at all times, during all procedures.

We also understand the cost challenges that may come for dental needs of cosmetic dentistry, root canals, dental implants, or any procedure. To help patients enjoy a healthy, confident smile while making affordable monthly payments, we offer several flexible payment options. Most require no down payment and are interest free.

CareCredit® (CareCredit)
Lending Club Patient Solutions (LendingClub)
Alphaeon Credit (Alphaeon)

Our Financial Coordinator will gladly discuss these payment plans with you in more detail. She can also provide you with an application or help you with the online application process.

With all the skills and technology, payment plans and sedation, and special measures taken to provide our patients with an ideal experience, you’ll find we are competitive in our fees and have a far-reaching reputation for overall results. Some patients even come to us from out-of-state.

If you’d like to discuss any needs related to your oral wellness, including that of your family, we are a comprehensive dental office and are always pleased to welcome new smiles of all ages. You can begin with a free consultation if you like, or may wish to view a brief video to “tour” our office: DrBarbatTour

To schedule a consult, tap HERE or call 586-739-2155.