Dental Crowns in
Alamogordo, NM
Dental decay and trauma can leave a tooth compromised and susceptible to further damage. Dental crowns are an excellent solution that provides strength and protection to the tooth by covering the entire structure, from the chewing surface to the gumline. Additionally, a crown can be used to replace a single missing tooth in conjunction with a dental implant.
Mountain View Dental can often create and place a dental crown in a single appointment to provide prompt relief. We also coordinate offsite fabrication of crowns made of premium materials. Our team in Alamogordo, NM, has dedicated their careers to providing our patients with the best oral health solutions through compassionate care and personalized treatments.
Dental Crown Materials
We provide crowns made of:
- Porcelain, which offers excellent strength and aesthetics
- Porcelain fused to metal, which is often recommended for molars
- Zirconia, the very strongest material used in dentistry
- Gold
The material used for your dental crown usually depends on the location of the tooth requiring treatment and your preference. During your consultation, you and your doctor will discuss your needs and select the most appropriate material for your dental crown.
Dental Crown Applications
Dental crowns can be used for a variety of purposes, including:
Single Tooth Replacement:
A dental crown can be attached to a dental implant to completely replace a lost tooth from the root to the chewing surface.
Restoring a Damaged or Decayed Tooth:
Suppose a tooth has suffered damage or developed advanced decay. In that case, a dental crown may be used to cover the remaining healthy portions of the tooth, providing protection as well as aesthetic improvement. Crowns are often the final step in a root canal.
Anchoring a Dental Bridge:
If you are receiving a traditional dental bridge to replace consecutive missing teeth, dental crowns are placed on either side of the bridge to hold it in place.
Aesthetics:
In some cases, dental crowns may also be used for cosmetic purposes, such as concealing discoloration, an irregular shape or size, or other imperfections.
Preparing Your Tooth
Dental crowns traditionally require two appointments over the course of about two weeks. The first visit will involve the preparation of your tooth to remove any decay or damage. Your tooth will then be reshaped to allow the crown to fit over the entire structure. Once the tooth has been fully prepared, the dentist will take an impression of the tooth which will be used to create the crown. If you are suffering from a lost or damaged tooth, you can depend on us to restore your smile’s health, comfort, and appearance with a custom crown.
For patients receiving a dental crown made of zirconia, porcelain fused to metal, or gold, your restoration will be fabricated at a partner lab. You will be provided with a temporary restoration in the meantime. All-porcelain crowns can be crafted and placed in one appointment at Mountain View Dental & Orthodontics using our CEREC® technology. We will use a digital impression of your tooth to guide computerized tools in milling your crown from a single block of porcelain chosen to match the natural shade of your teeth.
Once your custom crown is ready, your doctor will remove the temporary crown and attach your crown using dental cement to securely hold it in place. For beautiful, natural-looking results, the dentist will then buff and polish the crown.