Dental Crowns in Portland, OR

Dental crowns, also known as dental caps, are a common restorative treatment in dentistry. They are custom-made coverings that are placed over damaged or weakened teeth to restore their strength, shape, and appearance.

A dental crown essentially acts as a protective shell for a tooth that has been significantly compromised due to decay, trauma, or other oral health issues. It provides support and stability to the tooth structure while preventing further damage or decay.

Fear Free Dental's In-House Lab

We are proud to have an in-house lab. This means that our dentist and team have the ability to create custom-made dental crowns in their own office.

Having an in-house lab offers several advantages. First and foremost, it allows for greater efficiency and convenience. Rather than having to send impressions of your teeth off-site and wait days or even weeks for your crown to be made, you can often get same-day service with an in-house lab. Additionally, this ensures that any specific requirements or preferences can be addressed promptly, resulting in a more precise fit and aesthetic outcome for your crown. It also provides control over the entire process, allowing for quick adjustments if necessary. If, during placement of the crown, any minor modifications are needed for optimal comfort or appearance, they can be easily done right then and there.

Types of Dental Crowns

When it comes to dental crowns, there are various materials that can be used to create them. Each type has its own unique characteristics and benefits. 

Gold Crowns

Gold crowns have been used in dentistry for centuries and are known for their durability. They are made from a combination of gold and other metals, which gives them their distinct yellow color. Gold crowns offer excellent strength and longevity, making them a great option for patients who grind or clench their teeth.

Zirconia Crowns

On the other hand, zirconia crowns have gained popularity in recent years due to their natural appearance. Made from zirconium dioxide, these crowns can be matched to the color of your existing teeth, creating a seamless smile. Zirconia is also biocompatible, meaning it is less likely to cause allergic reactions or sensitivity.

Porcelain Crowns

Porcelain crowns seamlessly blend aesthetics and functionality to restore a tooth's natural charm while ensuring its long-lasting strength. Through advanced techniques such as computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM), each porcelain crown is custom-made to fit flawlessly into its designated space within the mouth, ensuring optimal comfort for the patient while restoring both form and function.

The Procedure for Getting a Dental Crown

During your visit, our dentist will prepare the tooth that needs the crown by removing any decay or damage and shaping it to accommodate the crown. This may involve filing down some of the tooth structure. After preparing the tooth, the dentist will take impressions of your teeth to create a custom-made crown that fits perfectly in your mouth. These impressions are sent to our in-house dental lab, where we will craft your crown using high-quality materials.

Once your crown is ready, the dentist will check if there are any adjustments needed before permanently cementing it in place. They'll ensure that it fits properly with optimal shape, size, color, and alignment.

Aftercare and Maintenance of Dental Crowns

Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

1. Oral hygiene: Brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing regularly is essential for maintaining the health of your dental crown. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid damaging the crown's surface.
2. Avoid hard foods: While dental crowns are designed to be durable, they can still be susceptible to damage from biting on hard objects or foods like ice, nuts, or candies. Be mindful of what you eat to prevent any unnecessary stress on the crown.
3. Regular check-ups: Schedule regular visits with our dentist for professional cleanings and examinations. This will allow them to assess the condition of your dental crown and address any concerns before they become major issues.
4. Mouthguards: If you participate in contact sports or grind your teeth at night, consider using a mouthguard to protect both your natural teeth and dental crown from potential damage.
5. Avoid bad habits: Try to minimize habits like nail-biting, chewing on pens or pencils, as these can put excess pressure on the dental crown.

By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure that your dental crown stays strong, functional, and aesthetically pleasing for years to come! 

To learn more about our dental crowns, visit our dentist, Dr. Little, at 4455 Sw Scholls Ferry Rd Suite 101, Portland, Oregon, 97225. You can also reach Dentist Portland, OR, at (503) 291-0000 or (503) 292-6677 to schedule an appointment.