

A dental crown is a custom-made artificial tooth cap that completely covers a chipped, cracked or damaged tooth. The crown fits over the original tooth or over a dental implant to provide a natural look. Most commonly, dental crowns are a restoration procedure for teeth needing more structural support and long-lasting protection than cavity fillings or inlays.
SupportWhile dental veneers only conceal the front surface of a tooth, dental crowns cover the entire damaged tooth, restoring functionality, shape, size, and strength to the tooth. This is especially important for posterior teeth where up to 150-200 lbs. of pressure can be placed on the teeth while chewing.
long lasting Dental crowns are designed to last several years when accompanied by good oral hygiene. On average, they last at least ten years, but generally much longer depending on the type of crown and oral health of the patient.
Tooth PreservationDental crowns seal the damaged teeth off from bacteria in the saliva that can cause teeth to deteriorate. They can also hold together cracked teeth, preserving their functionality.
NaturalThe dental lab can custom mold dental crowns that closely match the curves and shape of your other teeth.
VersatileIn addition to tooth protection and restoration, dental crowns can be used in connection with a variety of procedures in cosmetic dentistry:
Dental Implants: Dental crowns are used to cap the metal rod implant in place of a missing tooth.
Dental Bridges: Dental crowns on the teeth adjacent to the bridge serve as anchors for the bridge to clamp onto for support.
Root Canal Therapy: We highly recommend dental caps to protect brittle teeth after root canal therapy.
There are three general types of dental crowns composed of different materials: all-ceramic crowns, porcelain crowns, and gold alloy crowns. Each type of crown is best suited for different areas of the mouth, esthetic considerations, durability requirements, and strength demands. At our initial consultation, we will assess your situation and decide together what type of dental crown would best enhance your smile.
Types of Dental Crowns |
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| All-Ceramic Crowns or All-Porcelain Crowns |
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| Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns |
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| Gold Alloy Crowns |
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To take a step towards restoring your beautiful smile, contact our Minneapolis area office. We are happy to meet with you and explain more about porcelain crowns as well as your other options.