Porcelain Crowns
A dental crown, also known as a cap, is basically a cover for a tooth that restores structural integrity and provides protection. Crowns are used to restore weak, worn, or damaged teeth, but they can also be used to change a tooth's appearance, position, shape, contour, and/or color. Additionally, Dr. Noorda also may recommend crowns to support teeth for bridges and dentures or to adjust a patient's "bite" to prevent or treat TMJ (temporomandibular joint) problems.
All-porcelain crowns contain no metal and are typically applied to front teeth where appearance is of utmost importance. The porcelain possesses the same luminosity as natural tooth enamel for a lifelike appearance. Dr. Noorda designs crowns to match the color, shape, and size of natural teeth. Expect two visits to design and place a custom porcelain crown.
In addition to porcelain, crowns can also be made from metals (such as gold) or from a combination of metal and porcelain (PFM or porcelain fused to metal). In order to choose the best material for your custom crown, Dr. Noorda will evaluate the location, bite, and chewing forces it will encounter.