Crowns

Richard Rhoads, Jr., DDS -  - General Dentist

Smiles By The Lake

Richard Rhoads, Jr., DDS

General Dentist & Cosmetic Dentist located in Overland Park, KS

Whether you need to cover a tooth with a large filling or support a tooth that’s fallen victim to decay, dental crowns are one of the most versatile and commonly used treatment options in modern dentistry. For a crown that fits perfectly and looks just as healthy and natural as the rest of your teeth, visit Richard Rhoads, Jr., DDS, and his team at Smiles by the Lake in Overland Park, Kansas. Call the office today and make an appointment, or make one online with the scheduling tool.

Crowns

What is a dental crown?

A dental crown is a cap shaped like an artificial tooth that’s placed on your tooth to restore its shape and size, improve its appearance, and strengthen and support your bite. When securely cemented into place, a crown is indistinguishable from a natural tooth, and typically fully encases the tooth above the gumline.

What does a dental crown do?

Dental crowns are an extremely versatile tool for dentists and can be used as part of a variety of treatments. They are most helpful for:

  • Protecting a tooth that has been weakened by decay or traumatic injury
  • Holding together pieces of a breaking or cracked tooth
  • Restoring a tooth that has already broken or has been worn down
  • Supporting a tooth with a large filling in it
  • Holding a dental bridge in place
  • Covering a dental implant

Dental crowns can also sometimes be used for small cosmetic adjustments, like covering misshapen or discolored teeth.

What is it like to get a dental crown?

Typically, you get your crown in two separate visits, with some time in between for your crown to be specially constructed. At the first visit, Dr. Rhoads examines your tooth, uses X-rays to check the health of its root, and confirms that a crown is the best option.

Then, he anesthetizes the tooth and the surrounding area to keep you comfortable while he files and shapes the tooth so that it can support the crown. Sometimes, this can also involve using a dental filling to provide the tooth with proper support.

Finally, he makes an impression of your tooth so that your crown fits perfectly and gives you a temporary cap to keep the tooth safe and supported while your crown is constructed.

Once the crown is ready, you’ll return for your second appointment, and Dr. Rhoads will cement it into place. There are a variety of materials for you to choose between, and Dr. Rhoads can talk to you about which one he recommends for your circumstances.

If you need a dental crown, bridgework, implant, or any kind of dental care, call the office today or make an appointment online with the scheduling tool.