What is a crown?

A crown is a dental restoration that covers or "caps" the tooth to restore it to its more normal shape, size and function. A tooth is like a box – the box can only hold so much "filling". Large fillings can weaken the tooth and take away from the ability to bite properly.

Front teeth may need a "cap" to improve its cosmetic appearance. These crowns are fabricated from ceramic porcelain materials that are very life-like. We can change the color of the front teeth to improve your smile.

Crowns made for chewing only are made from gold or gold and porcelain so as to be non-breakable under heavy loads.

These metal fillings, amalgam, used to be the standard in dentistry and were used in the back of the mouth since their conception 80 years ago. Although durable, they can deteriorate or break down to the point they have outlived their usefulness. White fillings, or composite, is a blend of tooth-like materials that actually adhere to the wall of the tooth, or "bond" to the tooth. These fillings not only look better, but have proven over the past 8-10 years to be just as durable as their predecessors.

The newest, most exciting aspect of coming to our office is Cosmetic Dentistry.  We offer:

1. In House Whitening

We change the color in as little as 1-1/2 hours while you listen to relaxing music or a book on tape. We use the ADA approved products which are very safe and does not harm the teeth.

2. Take Home Whitening

We make custom trays that weigh less than one ounce and fit comfortably and tightly over your upper and lower teeth. A special, safe agent is applied to the inside of the "tray". This process changes the shade of the teeth in as little as ten days, but can be safely used for up to 3 weeks.

3. Bonding

Bonding is done to change the shape or the color of the existing tooth. This procedure is done in one office visit and done painlessly, most of the time without novacaine. Bonding is a quick cure for the traumatized tooth that has been accidently fractured or "broken".

 

4. Veneers

These are the more permanent and life like facings similar to bonding. We can change the color, shape, length or smile appeal in just two visits. Many of our patients have enjoyed what we call "instant ortho". Although traditional ortho treatment, or "braces", is still strongly recommended treatment, many patients simply don’t have the 6 months to two years to wait for that treatment to be completed.

We want happy, healthy smiles. We will be glad to discuss all the options and advantages as well as fees at our consultation appointments.

Our philosophy will always be "Patient First".

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