Crowns in Atlanta, Georgia (GA)

Dental crowns are restorative coverings for teeth that, for whatever reason, are either no longer able to function on their own or are cosmetically unappealing. This can include chipped or cracked teeth, teeth spaced too far apart, or permanently stained teeth. Each crown is custom-made and permanently attached over the tooth in question in order to provide it with a new appearance.

Patients have a choice in what the crown itself will be made from. Porcelain crowns are most often chosen for those who want a natural-looking smile. Metals can be chosen for their strength. Resin crowns can be chosen because they are less expensive than other options and can be constructed directly in the mouth.

With the exception of some resin crowns, the procedure occurs in two stages over two different visits to the dentist. During the first visit, the tooth will be cleaned and readied for the new crown. Depending on many factors, this may or may not involve a root canal to remove living tissue in the tooth and lessen later possible complications. The dentist will also remove part of the outer tooth structure. This is where the crown will attach. Removal of the enamel is necessary to line the crown up smoothly with the surrounding teeth. At this time, the dentist also takes a dental mold, which is sent to the manufacturer that will produce the crown.

Once the dentist has the new crown, it is attached permanently to the tooth with dental cement. In some cases, the dentist may decide to affix the crown temporarily to ensure that no adjustments need to be made first.

There is very little recovery time after receiving a crown. Patients may experience a dull ache for the next 24 hours but will be able to return to their normal routines after that. The lifespan of a crown depends on the hygiene of the patient and the material of which it is made. A crown may last from 5 to over 40 years.