Restore the Function and Appearance of Your Teeth with Dental Crowns in Phoenix, AZ

cosmetic dental care
By 7 North Dental

Dental crowns offer an effective, long-lasting solution for cracked, decayed, broken, or otherwise damaged teeth. These custom prosthetic covers protect weak tooth structures and restore form, function, and aesthetics. If you’re considering advanced restorations like dental crowns in Phoenix, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know.

What Are Dental Crowns?

Also known as “caps,” dental crowns are tooth-shaped prosthetic covers placed over compromised teeth to restore them to full function and aesthetics. Custom crowns protect damaged tooth structures underneath, made from durable ceramic, porcelain fused to metal alloys, or high-strength zirconia. An excellent option for extensive repairs, properly placed crowns can last over a decade with diligent home care. They provide a seamless, natural-looking final restoration.

When Are Dental Crowns Necessary?

There are many situations where crowns present the optimal restorative solution:

  • Split or fractured teeth
  • Extensively decayed/broken teeth
  • Preserving weakened tooth structure
  • Restoring endodontically-treated teeth after root canals
  • Anchoring dental bridges
  • Correcting uneven, fractured, or misshapen teeth
  • Supporting teeth with large fillings
  • Preventing damaged, cracked teeth from worsening

Unlike dental fillings that repair small holes in tooth enamel, dental crowns cap the entire visible tooth to protect and fully strengthen what remains after trauma or decay. In cases of excessive damage, crowns last longer, look more natural, and prevent further breakdown better than large fillings alone.

How Are Custom Dental Crowns Created?

Constructing customized dental crowns involves two appointments:

  • First Dental Visit – The affected tooth is numbed and prepared by removing the damaged outer structure. Precise digital impressions are taken to craft the custom crown shape. A temporary cap is fitted over the prepared tooth.
  • Second Visit – Approximately 2-3 weeks later, the finished crown is permanently cemented over the prepared tooth. The dentist ensures proper fit, comfort, and function before bonding.

Types of Dental Crown Materials

Dentists use various materials to create natural-looking, durable dental crowns:

  • Porcelain – Very aesthetic and mimics real tooth shade/texture. However, porcelain can be brittle and isn’t ideal for back teeth.
  • Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal – Utilizes a metal substructure for strength fused with an aesthetic porcelain outer layer. Less wear than all-porcelain but more visible metal edges.
  • Zirconia – Extremely strong ceramic that offers aesthetics similar to natural teeth. It is more fracture-resistant than porcelain without a metal substructure. Excellent choice.

The best crown material depends on factors like location in the mouth and forces exerted during biting/chewing. Your Phoenix dentist will suggest the optimal long-lasting crown material for each unique situation.

What to Expect During the Crown Placement Process

While each case is unique, generally, you can expect the crown process to follow this timeline:

  • Initial Visit – Numbing and tooth preparation (30-60min)
  • Temporary Crown – Worn for 1-3 weeks until lab crafts permanent crown
  • Permanent Placement – Remove temporary crown, fit, adjust, and cement final crown (30-60min)

While the exact steps can vary, your dentist will ensure you stay comfortable through each appointment to place your custom dental crown.

Caring for Dental Crowns

Quality crowns can last 10-15 years or longer with diligent daily care and regular dental visits. Tips for maintaining dental crowns include:

  • Get Regular Cleanings/Exams – See your dentist every six months to ensure your crowns and oral health stay in great shape. Monitoring helps address minor issues before they become major and costly.
  • Practice Excellent Daily Oral Hygiene – Brush twice and floss once daily to prevent decay and inflammation around crowns that can undermine their integrity over time.
  • Avoid Damaging Habits – Curb habits like biting nails, opening packages with teeth, or chewing on hard items. Dental crowns replicate natural teeth but aren’t indestructible. Sound habits prevent fractures.

Why Choose 7 North Dental for Dental Crowns in Phoenix, AZ?

Regarding advanced, natural-looking dental crowns in Phoenix, 7 North Dental delivers quality care paired with optimal comfort. With decades of combined expertise crafting tooth-colored restorations, our phoenix dentist customize crowns for resilient, long-lasting results. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation for dental crowns or any smile restoration needs!