Dental Crowns
Dental Crown Dentistry in Birmingham
Crowns on a tooth are needed for different reasons. Basically, a crown (or cap) is a full coverage restoration that covers the entire tooth, thus protecting and strengthening the original tooth. Dr. Curry will always first try to use standard filling methods if a tooth is chipped or broken. When a tooth is broken or chipped to the point that a traditional filling will not work, then a crown is the next step needed to fix the tooth.
Other reasons teeth may need a crown:
- Chipped or broken teeth beyond the point that a filling will work
- Large metal fillings that need replacing
- Large decay is present on the tooth
- Cosmetic reasons (ex. ugly dark line at the top of an old crown)
- Tooth has had a root canal
- Tooth has an old existing crown that needs replacing
Types of Crowns Used at our Dental Office
Several types of crowns are available today, and porcelain (tooth-colored crown) continues to be the most popular, mainly because they look like real teeth. They are highly durable and will last many years and wear better than dentures. Porcelain crowns are custom-made to match the tooth’s original shape, color, width, and height. Porcelain crowns can be made of all porcelain or be a layer of porcelain that is covered over a metal framework. There are also all metal crowns made of gold and other materials. Dr. Curry will go over each particular case and the price of the different crowns and present other options, and together we will decide which type of crown is best for you.
Contact us to get started today!
Schedule Your Appointment Today
We're accepting new patients from Vestavia Hills, Cahaba Heights, and the surrounding area. We work with most major dental insurance plans, and our front desk verifies your benefits before your visit so you know what's covered. For treatments that aren't fully covered or for patients without dental insurance, we offer transparent estimates upfront. No surprises.
Call or schedule online to book your first visit. New-patient appointments include a comprehensive exam, the X-rays we need to see what's going on, a cleaning where appropriate, and time to talk through anything you'd like to plan for.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do I need a crown instead of a filling?
Dr. Curry always tries a standard filling first. When a tooth is broken, chipped, or decayed to the point a filling won’t hold, a crown is the next step, fully covering the tooth to restore its strength, shape, and natural appearance. He’ll confirm the right option at your visit.
What other reasons might call for a crown?
Other reasons include large or leaking metal fillings that need replacing, extensive decay, a tooth that has had a root canal, or an old crown that needs replacing. A crown can also fix the dark line that shows at the gumline of an older crown. Dr. Curry reviews which applies to you.
What are crowns made of?
Porcelain (tooth-colored) crowns are the most popular because they look like natural teeth; they can be all-porcelain or porcelain over a metal framework. All-metal crowns in gold or other alloys are also available and very durable for back teeth. Dr. Curry reviews each option and its cost before you decide.
How long do porcelain crowns last?
With proper care, porcelain crowns are highly durable and commonly last 10 to 15 years or longer. To protect them, avoid chewing ice or hard candy, wear a nightguard if you grind, and keep up regular cleanings so Dr. Curry can catch any wear early and keep your crown looking natural.
Will people be able to tell I have a crown?
When done correctly, a crown fully encases the visible tooth and is custom-made to match its original shape, color, width, and height, so no one should be able to tell it’s there. Dr. Curry shade-matches each crown so your restored tooth blends seamlessly with the teeth around it.
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