Chicago Dentist - Crowns

A crown is a full coverage restoration that is placed on a tooth to restore cosmetics and function. It is needed when severe breakdown due to fracture or decay in excess of two-thirds of the tooth is present. Crowns are also used to restore teeth that have previously had root canal or endodontic treatment. Years ago, crowns were only made of gold, providing strength but very poor cosmetics. Today, there is a wide selection of materials to choose from. The factors, which affect material selection, are the tooth location and forces of occlusion or the force of chewing the crown is to endure. Most cosmetic crowns are made from pressable ceramics. No metal is used, therefore, making this ideal for front teeth. Patients will no longer see gray or black lines at the gum line. Without metal, the natural translucency and light reflection of the porcelain create a life-like, beautiful smile. In the posterior areas of the mouth or in patients who exhibit problems with their bite or occlusion, there are several variations of porcelain fused to gold crowns. These are beautiful restorations needed for strength in areas where translucency is not an important factor. Crowns last an average of ten to 15 years, through constant home care and maintenance of the patient.

If you are interested in updating or replacing your crowns, contact Chicago cosmetic dentist Dr. Benjamin Fiss today.

IPS Empress Crowns

Crowns enable dentists to restore severely damaged teeth. IPS Empress crowns closely blend into the surrounding natural dentition.