Whether you need to replace an existing cap or have a tooth that needs a dental crown, Summit, NJ dentist Dr. Rajeev Upadya can create a custom dental crown that looks and feels like a natural tooth. Tooth crowns are one of the restorative dentistry treatments we provide to new and existing patients in Summit, NJ. Dr. Upadya will recommend the most appropriate type of dental crown for your dental health and cosmetic needs.
For the most natural look and feel, Dr. Upadya prefers porcelain dental crowns because they are extremely well fitting and virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth. Dental crowns can be color matched to blend seamlessly with your smile for beautiful results.
When Do I Need a Dental Crown?
Dr. Upadya, a Summit, NJ dentist, may recommend a dental crown for any of the following dental problems or cosmetic concerns:
- After a root canal
- Restore a tooth with a large cavity
- Repair broken or cracked tooth
- Improve the appearance of misshaped or crooked tooth
- Cover a stained or discolored tooth
- Close gaps between teeth
- Lengthen teeth
- Other cosmetic dentistry goals
Am I A Good Candidate?
You might be a good candidate for a crown if you have a tooth that’s badly damaged, cracked, or weakened from decay. Crowns work well for teeth that have large fillings and need extra protection. We can also cover teeth that are worn down and need to be restored to their normal shape and size.
If you’ve had a root canal, our dentist will likely recommend a crown to protect the treated tooth from breaking. Crowns also help cover discolored or misshapen teeth that affect your smile. People who grind their teeth might need crowns to repair damage or prevent future problems.
You typically need at least a solid foundation of your natural tooth structure for a dental crown to work properly. For a crown to stay secure, your tooth usually needs about 1-2 millimeters of healthy structure remaining above the gumline after all decay or damage is removed. This gives the crown enough to grip onto. If your tooth is extremely broken down, we might first rebuild it with a filling material (called a “core buildup”) to create the necessary support.
Even if most of your tooth’s top is gone, roots matter too. The remaining root should be strong and infection-free.
But crowns aren’t always the right choice for every patient. We might suggest a simpler treatment like a filling or bonding if you have minor tooth damage. You must also have healthy teeth and gums. Tooth decay or gum disease can loosen your crowns. Dr. Upadya will examine your tooth and discuss whether a crown is the best option for your specific situation.
The Dental Crown Process in Summit, NJ
We can help you get one or more dental crowns in just one office visit. Dr. Upadya uses modern dental technology to create same-day crowns.
The steps to getting a dental crown include:
Initial Visit
Dr. Upadya will conduct a thorough examination of your overall dental health. He will use diagnostic X-rays to look for signs of decay, stress and instability that could compromise your results.
You must have
This exam will help us to design a personalized treatment plan that will restore the tooth to optimal health and function. Our Summit, NJ dentist will discuss the various options you have for a dental crown and help you make the best choice.
Tooth Preparation
Once the treatment plan is finalized, Dr. Upadya will prepare the tooth/teeth by removing a small amount of the natural tooth structure to accommodate the dental crown. With CEREC® technology, the need for a temporary tooth cap is not necessary.
Dr. Upadya will take digital images of the prepared tooth and create a digital 3-D model of the new dental crown. These images are used to fabricate a comfortable, beautiful and natural functioning dental crown using our onsite dental laboratory equipment.
Final Restoration
For patients receiving a dental crown using CEREC® technology, their restoration will be created while they wait. In just one visit to our Summit, NJ dentist office, you will be fitted with your final dental crown restoration.
Once you and Dr. Upadya are happy with the fit, look, and position of the crown, it will be bonded to the tooth and polished. Patients are able to enjoy the immediate results.
Same-Day Dentistry
Using sophisticated E4D technology, Dr. Upadya can complete most dental crown procedures in a single visit. The E4D uses CAD/CAM capabilities to design and create a custom-fit porcelain dental crown. Same-day dentistry saves the patient time and money and allows their tooth to remain protected and fully functional.
The same-day crown will fit more precisely. You also won’t need to wear a temporary crown.
How to Care for Dental Crowns
Follow these tips after treatment to keep your crowns healthy:
Brush and Floss
First, treat your crown like a natural tooth when it comes to brushing and flossing. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to clean around the crown gently. Be sure to floss daily, carefully sliding the floss between the crowned tooth and its neighbors to remove plaque. While crowns can’t get cavities, the tooth structure at the base can still decay if not kept clean.
Avoid Certain Objects
Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice, pens, or hard candy, as this can chip or damage the crown. If you grind your teeth at night, ask your dentist about a nightguard to protect both your crown and natural teeth. Sticky foods, like caramel or gum, can sometimes pull on crowns, so it’s best to limit them.
Visit Our Office
Regular dental checkups are important to make sure your crown stays securely in place and your gums stay healthy. Your dentist will check for wear, proper fit, and any signs of decay around the edges. Schedule an appointment right away if you notice any discomfort, looseness, or changes in how your crown feels.
Schedule a Dental Exam and Consultation
Do you want to learn more about dental crowns in our Summit, NJ dentist office? Call us at 973-241-5169 or schedule an appointment online with Dr. Upadya. Metropolitan Center for Complete Dentistry is currently welcoming new patients.