Dental Crowns Greenwood

When restorations are needed for a tooth that has been damaged by injury or decay, we do our best to work from the most conservative standpoint. In some cases, a filling cannot sufficiently restore function to a damaged tooth. In such instances, a dental crown may be the most suitable form of treatment. Before you choose the type of crown to be used in your restoration, it may help to know the common crown materials and why they are appropriate.

Traditionally, dental crowns were fabricated using metal alloy such as gold, nickel or chromium. With metal-based crowns, we are able to leave more natural tooth structure in place, and wear to opposing teeth is minimal. Metal is strong enough to withstand years of force from chewing, and rarely breaks or chips. However, metal is metal and most people prefer to avoid the appearance of silver or gold in their smiles.

Today, patients have the option of undergoing necessary restoration with the strength of metal but the look of natural teeth thanks to porcelain-fused-to-metal dental crowns. These crowns are color-matched to adjacent teeth to provide a seamless transition. Porcelain-fused-to-metal is ideal for molars, but not recommended for the restoration of front teeth. Because there is a metal base in this type of crown, translucency is limited. This means that a porcelain-fused-to-metal crown won’t have the same dimension as natural teeth. Additionally, there tends to be a dark line at the margin (where the crown meets the gums).

When the restoration of front teeth is necessary, Dr. Harty and Dr. Wilson use all porcelain crowns. Porcelain is a strong material that very closely mimics the characteristics of natural enamel. This material refracts light and contains the multi-dimensional appearance that will give the patient a beautifully natural restoration without any dull or “fake” appearance.

In our Greenwood office, we provide traditional dental crowns as well as crowns made by our CEREC machine. These porcelain crowns are created in our office while you wait; thus eliminating the need for a temporary crown and a second visit. Living with teeth that are cracked, chipped or otherwise damaged does not have to be your reality. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Harty or Dr. Wilson to see if dental crowns are your way to a happy and healthy smile.

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