Dental crowns offer a versatile way to correct many smile-related issues. In fact, your St. Clair Shores and Eastpointe, MI, dentist, Dr. Peter Jost, can let you know if a crown could improve your particular dental problem.

How dental crowns work

Commonly called caps, dental crowns are hollow restorations that slide over the top of the tooth. Whether they're made of porcelain, porcelain-fused-to-metal, ceramic, or resin, crowns are tough enough to withstand years of wear and tear.

The first step in the crown process involves making your tooth a little smaller. Reducing the size of your tooth ensures that your restoration fits comfortably. After your tooth is reduced, your dentist will make an impression of your mouth. The impression serves as a mold for your new crown.

You'll leave the St. Clair Shores dental office wearing a temporary dental crown. In about two weeks, your dentist will cement your permanent crown to your tooth.

Why you may need a dental crown

Dental crowns are recommended for several reasons. If you're unhappy with the appearance of a tooth, a crown can transform your smile. They're an excellent choice if you want to hide discoloration or other imperfections, make a tooth a little longer, or even change the appearance of an oddly shaped tooth.

Crowns strengthen fragile teeth, preventing them from breaking. Your tooth can weaken due to a crack, large filling, or root canal therapy, or may become brittle as you age. Covering the tooth with a crown is a simple way to protect your smile.

A crown may be needed if you've broken a tooth. Crowns restore the normal width and height of your tooth, in addition to improving your ability to chew.

Crowns can also be used in conjunction with dental implants to replace missing teeth. Dental implants are titanium posts that bond to your jawbone and become the roots of your new teeth. Crowns are attached to the tops of implants, fully restoring missing teeth.

Enhance your smile with a dental crown! If you live in the St. Clair Shores and Eastpointe, MI, areas, call Dr. Peter Jost at (586) 771-1460 to schedule your appointment.