Dental crowns are one of the most versatile types of restorations offered by your Novi, MI, dentist, Dr. Neil Blavin. They're just as effective at repairing a broken tooth as they are completely transforming an unattractive tooth.
How crowns work
A crown, also known as a cap, encases a tooth in porcelain or other durable materials that resemble natural tooth enamel. Shaped just like the upper, visible parts of teeth, the restorations are hollow to allow them to slip over teeth easily.
During your first crown visit to our Novi dental office, your dentist will reduce the size of your tooth slightly. Crowns are made from an impression of your mouth to ensure that the restorations fit well and look natural. Until your permanent restoration arrives from the dental laboratory, you'll receive a temporary crown created for you by your dentist. The permanent crown is cemented on to your tooth after your dentist makes a few minor adjustments.
Why you may need a dental crown
A dental crown may help if you have:
- A Broken Tooth: A blow to the face or biting into an apple with a cracked or weak tooth can cause a break. Broken teeth can be very painful and may affect your appearance and your chewing ability. Your crown will stop your pain by covering the exposed ends of the tooth. Thanks to the impression used to make the crown, your tooth won't look any different after it's restored.
- Tooth Imperfections: One discolored or twisted tooth can disrupt the symmetry of your smile. Covering the tooth with crown hides discolorations and other imperfections.
- Short Teeth: Teeth may be naturally short or may shorten if you grind or clench your teeth at night. Dental crowns will extend the length of your teeth, while nightguards will prevent future damage to your crowns and teeth.
- Fragile Teeth: Crowns are often used to strengthen teeth weakened by root canals, large fillings or cracks. Biting forces are distributed along the chewing surfaces of the crowns, preventing your teeth from breaking or fracturing.
Enhance your smile with dental crowns. Call your dentist in Novi, MI, Dr. Blavin, at (248) 347-0030 to schedule your appointment.