Crowns

Badly broken down teeth require a restorative option that offers the remaining tooth strength to prevent further fracture. A crown (or "cap," as it has been traditionally called) provides three-dimensional strength to a badly compromised tooth. Strength is gained around the remaining tooth structure by using either a cast metal replacement of the missing structure or a combination of metal and ceramic to provide strength and esthetics. Newly developed lab processes allow for metal-free, full-porcelain restorations.

Gold has been used for decades as a restorative material for crowns. It still remains the benchmark standard in the industry for reconstructing teeth in the back. This is because it has wear resistance that closely matches the natural tooth structure. However, many people are opposed to gold as a restorative material for crowns simply because they prefer something that looks more natural.

Older hybrid crown concepts are still readily used today by many dental offices and provide years of adequate service. However, many female patients show signs of gingivitis around the base of the crown. This is usually due to sensitivity to nickel or other metals that women develop over time from wearing jewelry.

New material science and procedures have opened the door to metal-free crowns. The beauty and esthetic value of these restorations allow for reconstruction of a badly broken tooth to form and function near its original uncompromised strength and appearance.

Before

After

Straits Area Dental uses advanced porcelain products such as Procera and NobelRondo, which are available from NobelSmile, a leader in dental technology.