About Dental Crowns
When one tooth is worn down or damaged, it may be saved with a crown. Dental crowns are tooth-shaped prosthetic covers that are placed over damaged teeth to protect from further damage and help restore the natural look and function. At Michael A. Macaluso, D.D.S., PC in Houston, TX, a crown can treat a large area of decay, strengthen a damaged tooth, hold together a crack, or mask discoloration. Our general dentist, Dr. Michael Macaluso, creates dental crowns with only the finest restorative materials, like metal, porcelain, or metal covered with porcelain.
In situations where a filling is insufficient for the treatment of a cavity, a crown can also be placed to cover the exposed area of a tooth following a root canal. Think of a dental crown like a protective shield that is placed over your damaged tooth to give it a new, stronger structure and aesthetic. We can also make replacement crowns that are attached to dental implants to give the appearance and function of a natural tooth. Individual porcelain veneers can also be done for patients who request them.
Make an appointment with Michael A. Macaluso, D.D.S., PC to find out how a crown can repair and steady a damaged tooth while also boosting the total health of your mouth.
Dental Crowns Reviews
Best Candidates
Crowns can be placed to cover a weak, decaying tooth to prevent it from chipping or may hold together a cracked tooth. Dental crowns may also fix a loose or worn-down tooth. Crowns by Dr. Macaluso may:
- Strengthen a tooth with a lot of decay that would not be stable after a tooth-colored filling
- Serve as part of a dental bridge
- Mask discolored teeth or a single tooth
- Return the shape and functionality to a broken tooth
- Top a dental implant
The material of the crown is selected with consideration to where it is being placed. Porcelain fused to metal (PFM) crowns or metal crowns are typically stronger, which makes them better suited for the less visible teeth in the back. Ceramic or porcelain crowns are better for the visible teeth and customized to match the size, shape, and color of your teeth. At your consultation, Dr. Macaluso will discuss your choices and help you choose the best dental restoration for your needs and budget.
What To Expect
In your initial visit, Dr. Macaluso will take digital impressions of the tooth or teeth that need to be supported with a crown. The impressions will be sent to a dental laboratory to make the crown for your tooth. A temporary dental crown will be used to cover your tooth as your fixed crown is being crafted. Once the crown is made and ready for placement, you will return for a second visit. Dr. Macaluso will numb the treatment area with a gel and a local anesthetic injection. More sedation techniques may be used if you have dental anxieties or fears. When the anesthesia has taken effect, Dr. Macaluso will prep your tooth by cleaning away debris and decay, then lightly file the enamel to create space for your dental crown. Your dental crown can be either cemented in or connected to an implant. Once set, Dr. Macaluso can adjust the fit of the crown so it is appropriate for your bite.
Follow-Up
Unless sedation was used, you will be able to leave our office once the procedure is done and you can get back to your day as normal. Dr. Macaluso or a member of his team will discuss how to care for your crown, including any foods that should be avoided and how to clean it. During your annual exams at Michael A. Macaluso, D.D.S., PC, we will evaluate your dental crown for wear and tear. We will determine when your crown should be replaced; however, with good care, it may last for several years. If you have any issues with your crown (if it falls out or is loose), call our office right away. Don't try to repair it or reattach it because this may cause an infection or affect your bite.
You Deserve A Crown
A damaged or missing tooth may be treated with a dental crown at Michael A. Macaluso, D.D.S., PC. Talk to our team about how a dental crown can shield your tooth from continued harm and help to keep your mouth healthy. With a crown to fit your needs, this restorative will blend in to keep your smile beautiful and allow you to resume functionality. Contact our scheduler in Houston, TX to make an appointment with Dr. Macaluso.
