Dental Crowns
The crown of the tooth is the aesthetic part that you can see above the gum line. When fracture or decay occurs and can’t be repaired with a filling, Dr. Kotkin expertly crafts and places a crown which restores function to the damaged tooth.
The Process
Dr. Kotkin begins by removing the decay and reducing the size of the natural tooth, leaving just the healthy tissue. This process is much like having a filling performed, both in length of time and comfort level. The entire procedure is carried out in one visit.
How long does a crown appointment take?
The initial appointment takes about 1 hour, similar to a filling appointment.
Think Your Child Needs A Dental Crown?
Call our Chatham Office with questions or to make an appointment.
Does it hurt to get a crown?
No. As with a filling and most dental procedures, we administer local anesthesia to numb the area. Our patients naturally feel a little discomfort as the anesthesia wears off, but it’s nothing that can’t be easily controlled with over-the-counter pain medications. Your comfort is our top priority, and we want to make sure you are comfortable during your appointments.
Can I eat after having a crown?
We recommend you wait about 30 minutes after completion of your treatment before eating or drinking. You will want to wait 24 hours—as the cement is setting—before eating anything hard or sticky that might pull the crown out of place.
How long do crowns last?
Stainless steel crowns can last up to 10 years, depending on how you care for them, their location in your mouth, and the materials used in the procedure. Our crowns are know to last even longer!
How do I care for a crown?
In the same way you care for your natural teeth—brush and floss twice daily, and be sure to keep up on your regularly scheduled cleanings with us.
Stainless Steel Crowns
Stainless steel crowns are often used on baby teeth, instead of silver or tooth-colored fillings. These strong metal crowns are easy to clean because of their smooth polished surface, and they cover the entire tooth, making them hard to damage or lose. Stainless steel crowns protect the tooth it covers from further decay.
The Benefits of Stainless Steel Crowns
- Durability—will protect and maintain the shape of even a heavily damaged tooth.
- Placement—Simple to apply, much like a filling, and not sensitive to moisture.
- Affordability—cost less than other types.
- Adaptability—also effective, when other options aren’t possible, in older adults and those with health issues, such as pregnancy.
- Alternative—allow the avoidance of removing a decayed tooth.
- Safety—made of only safe metals.
- Simplicity—fall out naturally with baby teeth.