Dental Crowns for the Front Teeth
Our teeth are continually exposed to the force and pressure of biting and breaking down food. Furthermore, food and beverages have sugars, starches, and acids that can weaken tooth enamel and wear down the teeth.
Any dental damage can compromise the health and appearance of the smile, but the effects are especially great when the front teeth are affected. Cosmetic dentists James M. Stein and Brett E. Stein can provide dental crowns to repair the front teeth. Dental crowns restore and protect the teeth so that our Boston, MA, patients can feel confident in the function and beauty of their smile.
Dental Crown Applications
Dental crowns are one of the most widely used dental restorations, because they are so versatile. Dental crowns have many applications, meaning that they can correct a wide range of structural and aesthetic flaws, including:
- Substantial tooth decay
- Acid erosion
- Structural damage from an oral injury
- Deep dental staining or discoloration
- Chips, cracks, or fractures
- Misshapen or disproportionate teeth
Dental Crown Treatment
Dental crowns are like small caps that sit over the natural teeth to strengthen, enhance, and protect from all sides. Traditionally, dental crown treatment is performed over the span of two dental appointments. During the first appointment, the tooth is reshaped to accommodate the dental crown, and the dental restoration is designed. At the second appointment, the completed dental crown is put in place.
We are able to offer our Boston patients same day crowns. Same day dental crowns provide the same strength and protection of traditional dental crowns, but treatment is completed in just one day. As with traditional dental crown treatment, we start by reshaping the tooth. We remove any damaged tissues, as well as a small amount of tooth enamel. This restores the health of the tooth, and makes room for the dental crown.
Once the tooth has been reshaped, we use our CAD/CAM technology to take 3-D images of the smile. Images are sent to a nearby computer, where we use special software to design a dental crown that best meets each patient’s aesthetic and structural needs. We customize the size, shape, and color of each dental crown so that it closely resembles the natural teeth.
While patients wait, the dental crown is fabricated by our in-office milling machine. When the crown is complete, we test the fit. If needed, adjustments can be made. When we are satisfied with the fit, the crown is bonded to the natural tooth, and the restoration is polished. Patients leave our office with a stronger, healthier, and more attractive smile.
Caring for Dental Crowns
Same day dental crowns are strong restorations that can restore the front teeth for many years. To promote their longevity, our Boston patients should practice some simple care tips:
- Avoid using the teeth as tools to rip open packages or similar tasks
- Limit foods that are especially hard, crunchy, or sticky
- Brush and floss the teeth regularly
- Schedule biannual dental exams and cleanings
Contact Our Dental Team
If your front teeth are damaged by decay, injury, or severe aesthetic flaws, you may benefit from dental crown treatment. To find out how these restorations can repair your smile, send us a message online at your earliest convenience or call our dental practice at (617) 227-6076.
