General Family Dentistry in Des Moines, IA

Personalized & Comfortable Lifelong Dental Care

Dental Crowns in Des Moines & Urbandale, IA

Dr. Chris McDonald offers the opportunity to reclaim a beautiful, natural-looking smile after dental disease with the placement of dental crowns. Crowns, or “caps,” are tooth-shaped coverings placed over teeth affected by damage or decay. Instead of extracting a badly damaged or decayed tooth and replacing it with a false tooth, Dr. McDonald can help strengthen the tooth with a dental crown. A well-made, properly placed crown should look and feel like a normal, healthy tooth.

What Does a Dental Crown Do?

Crowns restore normal form, appearance and function to damaged or decayed teeth. They make it possible to chew and bite comfortably and smile confidently. Crowns also strengthen weak teeth and protect them from further damage.

Dr. McDonald commonly uses crowns to hold together parts of cracked teeth, and to support teeth with large fillings when there is not a lot of tooth structure left. He also uses crowns to cover dental implant posts affixed in the jawbone, and to anchor dental bridges.

WHEN ARE DENTAL CROWNS NECESSARY?

Dental crowns are useful in a variety of cases, and Dr. McDonald may recommend them to:

  • Reinforce a weakened tooth
  • Restore teeth that are worn or severely broken
  • Conceal discolored teeth
  • Cover a tooth that has been treated with a root canal

DENTAL CROWN TYPES

Metal crowns: Metal crowns are composed entirely of metal. They are strong and rarely break; however, the color of the metal contributes to a less-than-ideal oral appearance.

Porcelain-fused-to-metal crown: As the name suggests, porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns leverage the strength of metal with porcelain, which looks similar to natural teeth. Dr. McDonald matches the crown to the shade of the natural teeth to create a seamless appearance.

Pressed ceramic crowns: Much like PFM crowns, pressed ceramic crowns feature a porcelain coating that is supported by a tough core. However, instead of metal, the core is made of pressed ceramic. These crowns provide a natural look and are ideal for front or back teeth.

All-ceramic crowns: For patients with metal allergies, all-ceramic crowns may be an ideal solution. All-ceramic crowns are free from metals and closely mimic the look of natural teeth. These crowns may also reduce enamel wear. They may be composed of many different materials, including zirconium dioxide.

All-resin crowns: All-resin crowns are typically used for temporary crowns. They are a sturdy option for patients who are waiting for their permanent crowns to be created.

DENTAL CROWNS AND ENAMEL

Crowns involve the removal of some of the natural enamel of the tooth. However, when completed by a skilled dental professional, crowns are an excellent restorative option that can replace loss of tooth function and provide the patient with more benefits than risks.

Dental Crown Treatment Details

Crowns are made of ceramic, porcelain or metal materials. Usually at least two dental visits are required to plan out and place a dental crown.

First Visit

During the first visit, Dr. McDonald removes any damaged or decayed material from your affected tooth to prepare it to receive the crown. He also takes a digital scan of the tooth. Together, you select the material for your crown based on factors like your aesthetic preferences and the location of the affected tooth. This information is sent to the dental laboratory responsible for constructing the custom crown. In the meantime, Dr. McDonald places a temporary crown over your prepared tooth.

Second Visit

Porcelain & Ceramic Crowns in Urbandale, IA

Once your permanent crown is ready, the second dental visit is scheduled. Dr. McDonald removes the temporary crown and positions the custom crown in place. If you like the way it looks and feels, and it does not interfere with the way your teeth fit together when you bite down, Dr. McDonald bonds the crown into place with a strong dental cement.

How to Ensure Best Results

It might take a few days to adjust to your permanent crown. However, once you are used to it, the crown should look, feel and function like a natural, healthy tooth.

You must brush and floss your crown daily and have it checked by Dr. McDonald regularly to ensure it remains intact. You should also avoid biting down on hard foods, ice or other hard objects with your crown, as the forces could crack or damage the restoration.

If you are a known tooth grinder or clencher, you should explore your options of having a night guard fitted to protect your crown (and the rest of your teeth). Night guards help protect your crown from premature wear and tear.

As long as you practice good oral hygiene and avoid biting down on hard objects, your crown can last for many years.

Get More Information About Dental Crowns

If you are interested in restoring a damaged or decayed tooth with a dental crown, Dr. McDonald invites you to schedule an informational consultation at our practice. Call or send us an email today to request an appointment.

Why Choose McDonald Family Dentistry

  • Long history of serving the community’s dental care needs
  • Convenient office location
  • Wide range of services to meet every patient’s goals
  • High-tech, state-of-the-art technology
  • Competitive fees

A Down-To-Earth
Family Practice

Under the leadership of Dr. McDonald, our entire team goes above and beyond to create an environment that is down to earth and relaxed. Thanks to our office’s beautiful natural surroundings and friendly, laid-back atmosphere, even the most anxious patients report feeling comfortable. Come see the difference for yourself!