If your dentist has recommended a crown, you might be wondering what that actually means and whether you really need one. Dental crowns are one of the most common restorative treatments in dentistry, and understanding the process can make the whole experience a lot less intimidating.
Here is everything you need to know.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap placed over a damaged or weakened tooth. It restores the tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance while protecting it from further damage.
Crowns can be made from several materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination. Your dentist will recommend the best material based on the location of the tooth and your specific needs.
Common Reasons You May Need a Dental Crown
A Tooth Is Cracked or Fractured
A crack that goes deep enough to threaten the structure of the tooth needs a crown to hold everything together and prevent the crack from spreading.
A Cavity Is Too Large for a Filling
When decay is too extensive for a filling to repair, a crown restores the tooth without requiring extraction.
You Have Had a Root Canal
Root canals leave the tooth structurally vulnerable. A crown placed after a root canal protects it from breaking under the pressure of everyday chewing.
A Tooth Is Severely Worn Down
Bruxism (teeth grinding) or acid erosion can wear teeth down to the point where a crown is the best way to restore proper function and appearance.
You Are Getting a Dental Implant
Crowns are the visible, functional portion of a dental implant. The crown attaches to the implant post and acts as your new artificial tooth.
Types of Dental Crowns: Which Material Is Right for You?
Porcelain & Ceramic Crowns
The most natural-looking option. These are ideal for front teeth where appearance matters most. They are color-matched to blend seamlessly with surrounding teeth.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns
A strong, durable option that still offers a natural appearance. These are a good choice for back teeth that need extra strength without sacrificing aesthetics.
Metal Crowns
Extremely durable and long-lasting. Metal crowns are typically recommended for molars where they will not be visible and the biting force is greatest.
The Dental Crown Procedure: Step by Step
Most crown placements take two appointments. Here is what to expect.
Appointment One: Tooth Preparation & Impressions
Your dentist will:
- Numb the area with local anesthetic
- Remove any decay and reshape the tooth to fit the crown
- Take an impression or digital scan of the tooth
- Place a temporary crown to protect the tooth while your permanent crown is made
Appointment Two: Permanent Crown Placement
Once your custom crown is ready, typically within one to two weeks, you return to have the temporary crown removed and the permanent one cemented into place. Your dentist will check your bite and make any final adjustments.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
With proper care, dental crowns typically last 10 to 15 years or longer. You can extend the life of your crown by:
- Brushing twice a day and flossing daily
- Avoiding chewing ice or hard objects
- Wearing a night guard if you grind your teeth
- Keeping up with regular dental checkups
Why Reno Patients Trust Silvaroli Dental for Dental Crowns
A crown is only as good as the dentist placing it. Fit, function, and aesthetics all matter.
Dr. Patrick Silvaroli and Dr. Michelle Schiro of Silvaroli Dental use advanced technology to make sure that every crown is precisely fitted and natural-looking. We take time to explain your options clearly so you always know what to expect before treatment begins.
What our patients can count on:
- Custom crowns crafted for a comfortable, seamless fit
- Digital impressions for greater precision and accuracy
- A gentle, patient-first approach at every appointment
- A 4.9-star rating across hundreds of Google and Yelp reviews
We serve patients throughout Reno, NV and surrounding communities.
Schedule Your Dental Crown Consultation at Silvaroli Dental in Reno, NV
If you have a damaged, decayed, or weakened tooth, do not wait for the problem to get worse. A crown placed early can save the tooth and prevent more extensive treatment later.
Contact us today to schedule your appointment or learn more about our crown services at Silvaroli Dental.
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Hours
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601 W. Moana Ln #1
Reno, NV 89509
