Dental Crowns in Meridian, ID
A dental crown restores the shape, strength, and appearance of a damaged tooth so patients can chew comfortably and protect their long-term oral health. At Legacy Smiles Family Dental in Meridian, Idaho, Dr. Daxton Pulham and Dr. John McMurray provide dental crown treatment with a focus on precision, comfort, and clear communication.
Our practice also offers CEREC same day dentistry, which may allow patients to receive a custom ceramic crown in a single visit using in-office digital technology.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that fits over a damaged tooth to restore its shape, function, and strength. Crowns are recommended when a filling is not enough to protect the tooth, such as after root canal therapy, for a cracked or heavily worn tooth, or when a large cavity has weakened the remaining structure.
Dental crowns may also be placed on top of a dental implant or used to improve the appearance of a misshapen or discolored tooth.
How a Dental Crown Can Help
- Protect a cracked, weakened, or fractured tooth from further damage
- Restore chewing function and everyday comfort
- Improve the appearance of a damaged or discolored tooth
- Strengthen a tooth after root canal therapy
- Serve as the visible restoration on a dental implant
- Replace a large or failing old filling
The Dental Crown Process
Dental crowns are typically completed over one or two visits, depending on the type of crown selected. During your appointment, your dentist will evaluate the tooth, discuss treatment options and materials, and prepare the tooth for the crown.
For patients receiving a traditional lab-made crown, a digital scan or impression is taken and a temporary crown is placed while the final restoration is made. At the second visit, the crown is checked for fit, bite, and appearance before being permanently placed.
With CEREC same day dentistry, the crown may be digitally designed, milled, and placed in a single appointment, eliminating the need for a temporary crown in many cases.
Dental Crown Materials
Several crown materials are available, and the best option depends on the tooth location, bite forces, esthetic goals, and individual patient needs. Common materials include all-ceramic and porcelain crowns for natural-looking results, zirconia crowns for strength on back teeth, porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns for a combination of durability and appearance, and gold alloy crowns for long-lasting performance in less visible areas.
Our team will explain the advantages of each material so you can make an informed decision about your treatment.
Caring for a Dental Crown
With good daily care, dental crowns can last many years. Brush with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily around the crown margins, avoid chewing very hard objects, and keep regular dental checkups so your dentist can monitor the restoration over time.
If you clench or grind your teeth, a nightguard may be recommended to help protect your crown and surrounding teeth.
Schedule a Dental Crown Consultation
To learn more about dental crowns in Meridian, Idaho, or to schedule an appointment with Legacy Smiles Family Dental, call 208-888-3311.
