2520 W Hermosa Dr, Artesia, NM 88210
Protecting Teeth That Need More Support
When a tooth has been significantly damaged by decay, fracture or a large filling, sometimes the best solution is a dental crown. At Smile Xpressions Family Dentistry, we provide custom crowns for patients throughout Artesia, restoring the strength, function and appearance of teeth that need more protection than a filling alone can provide.
A dental crown acts like a cap, covering the entire visible portion of a tooth to reinforce it and prevent further damage. Whether you need a crown to protect a tooth after a root canal, cover a large filling or complete a dental implant, our team is here to provide a comfortable, precise fit that blends naturally with your smile.
Schedule a Crown Consultation
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that fits over the entire visible surface of a tooth, restoring its shape, size and strength. Crowns are typically made from durable materials like porcelain or a combination of porcelain and metal, designed to withstand normal biting and chewing while blending in naturally with your surrounding teeth.
Crowns are commonly used to:
- Protect a Weak Tooth, from further damage or fracture
- Restore a Tooth After a Root Canal, providing strength once the inner tooth structure has been treated
- Cover a Large Filling, when there is not enough natural tooth left to support one
- Complete a Dental Implant, serving as the visible replacement tooth
- Restore a Cracked or Severely Worn Tooth, back to its original shape and function
- Improve the Appearance of a Discolored or Misshapen Tooth
Who May Need a Dental Crown?
A dental crown may be recommended for patients with a tooth that has a large area of decay, a crack or fracture, significant wear, or a tooth that has recently had a root canal. Crowns are also used to complete a dental implant or to improve the appearance of a tooth that is discolored or oddly shaped. Our dentist will evaluate your tooth and let you know if a crown is the right treatment to restore its strength and appearance.
Getting a Dental Crown, Step by Step
Getting a dental crown typically involves two visits to ensure a precise, comfortable fit. Here is what to expect at our Artesia office.
Initial Consultation and Preparation
Our dentist examines the tooth, removes any decay and reshapes the tooth to prepare it for the crown.
1
Taking Impressions
Detailed impressions or digital scans of your tooth are taken to ensure your custom crown fits precisely.
2
Temporary Crown Placement
While your permanent crown is being custom made, a temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth in the meantime.
3
Custom Crown Fabrication
Your permanent crown is crafted to match the shape, size and color of your natural teeth for a seamless result.
4
Final Fitting and Placement
Once ready, your permanent crown is checked for fit and bite, then securely bonded into place.
5
Final Adjustments
Our dentist will make any final adjustments needed to ensure your crown feels comfortable and functions naturally with your bite.
6
Benefits of Dental Crowns
- Restores Full Function
Crowns allow you to bite and chew normally again, without concern for further damaging a weakened tooth. - Long-Lasting Durability
With proper care, dental crowns can last many years, making them a reliable long-term solution. - Natural, Custom Appearance
Crowns are shade matched and shaped to blend seamlessly with your surrounding teeth for a natural-looking result. - Prevents Further Damage
Covering a cracked or weakened tooth with a crown helps prevent it from breaking further or requiring extraction. - Versatile Solution
Crowns can address a wide range of concerns, from structural damage to cosmetic imperfections, in a single restoration.
Caring for Your Dental Crown
Dental crowns require no special care beyond your regular oral hygiene routine. Brushing twice daily, flossing regularly and attending routine checkups will help protect both your crown and the surrounding teeth for years to come. While crowns are durable, it is still a good idea to avoid biting down on very hard foods or using your teeth to open packaging, to help your crown last as long as possible.
Restore Your Smile’s Strength and Confidence
A damaged or weakened tooth does not have to compromise your smile or your ability to eat comfortably. Our team at Smile Xpressions is here to provide a durable, natural-looking crown that restores both function and confidence.
Request a Crown Consultation