Dental Crowns

A crown is a tooth-shaped cap placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. A crown may be needed when a tooth has been broken, weakened by decay, or worn down over time. A crown may also be placed over a dental implant to stabilize an artificial tooth.

At J. Whitley Wills, DDS, we use dental crowns to restore the appearance of your smile if you have damaged or missing teeth. Crowns also improve the function of your teeth by making them stronger and more able to withstand chewing and biting forces. In addition, dental crowns can protect your teeth from further damage and decay. 

The Different Types of Crowns

Porcelain Crowns

Porcelain crowns in Memphis, TN, are known for their natural appearance and ability to match the color of adjacent teeth. They are an excellent choice for front teeth and visible areas. However, they may be more susceptible to chipping or fracture than other materials. 

Metal Crowns

Metal crowns are typically made from alloys containing metals like gold, palladium, or silver. They are known for their durability and longevity. Metal crowns are often used for back teeth and can withstand the forces of biting and chewing. Their metallic color makes them less suitable for visible front teeth. 

Porcelain-Fused-To-Metal Crowns

PFM crowns combine the strength of metal with the aesthetics of porcelain. The metal provides durability, while the porcelain outer layer offers a natural appearance. However, over time, the porcelain may wear, exposing the metal underneath, and in some cases, a dark line may become visible at the crown's edge. 

All-Ceramic Crowns

All-ceramic crowns are made entirely of porcelain or other ceramic materials. They provide excellent aesthetics, making them a popular choice for front teeth. They are also less likely to cause allergic reactions in patients with metal allergies. All ceramic crowns can be used for both front and back teeth, but they may be less durable than metal or PFM crowns and are more prone to chipping. 

The Procedure for Getting a Crown

The process of getting a dental crown usually takes two visits to complete. During the first visit, our dentist in Memphis, TN, will numb the area and remove any decayed or damaged tissue from the tooth. They will then take impressions of your teeth and create a mold that will be used to create your crown. The second visit is when the crown will be placed. During this visit, the dentist will fit the crown onto the tooth and cement it in place. 

After your crown has been placed, you must follow our dentist’s instructions for caring for your new crown. This includes brushing and flossing regularly and avoiding chewing on hard objects. You should also see our dentist for regular checkups to ensure your crown stays in good condition. 

Dental crowns can help restore the health and aesthetics of your smile, ensuring your continued oral well-being. Visit J. Whitley Wills, DDS, at 59 S Idlewild St., Memphis, TN 38104, or call (901) 726-9525 to determine whether a dental crown is the right solution for your specific situation.