Dental crowns at Palo Alto Smiles—sometimes called a ‘cap’ or ‘jacket’—restore a large filling or a cracked tooth to its original size, shape, and tooth color. A crown may be recommended after root canal therapy to protect a brittle tooth that is more likely to fracture. It can also enhance the appearance of your teeth.
To place a crown, we reduce 1-2 mm of the tooth to make room for it. Then, we use thread, cord, or a laser to push the gum down around the tooth to take an impression. These impressions are sent to the lab, where the permanent crown is crafted.
While the crown is being made, you’ll wear a temporary crown, which is usually made of plastic in our office during your visit. Note that temporary crowns are not meant to last long—if left in place too long, the cement will wash out, and the tooth may decay.
At your second visit, your dentist will remove the temporary crown, test the permanent one, and make any necessary adjustments. Once everything fits perfectly, the crown will be permanently cemented onto your tooth.
If you’ve struggled for any length of time with missing a single tooth or need to have multiple teeth replaced, or you have rocking or ill-fitted dentures, dental implant-supported restorations are the best solution available. They are highly recommended as a secure, long-term preference for tooth replacement that function, look, and feel like natural teeth.
Once the dental implant screw is securely fused with the bone in your jaw, Dr. Rastakhiz will place the abutments and make a custom crown restoration. Once your crown is fitted, your healthy, new smile will be ready to show off to the world!
Once you’ve completed the dental implant process, you will have a beautiful, natural looking solution that will provide many, many years of talking, laughing, smiling, and eating your favorite foods without having to worry about loose-fitting dentures or ugly gaps in your smile.
We’re excited you’re ready to take the first step toward your perfect, amazing smile!
