When a tooth is cracked, worn down, or weakened by decay, a dental crown can restore its strength and protect it for the long term. At Big River Dental, we offer custom lab-fabricated crowns crafted from durable, high-quality materials to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. Whether you need a single crown or part of a larger restoration, Dr. Dickey will ensure the fit, function, and look are exactly right, so you can bite, chew, and smile with ease.
With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Dickey takes a detail-oriented approach, using trusted materials and ensuring consistency of care from start to finish.
What are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown, sometimes called a tooth “cap,” is a custom-made covering that fits over the entire visible part of a tooth. It’s designed to restore shape, size, and strength while also improving appearance. Crowns are often used after a root canal, to repair a large cavity, to restore a fractured tooth, or to support a dental bridge.
Getting a crown from us at Big River Dental usually takes two visits: one to prepare the tooth and take impressions, and another to place the permanent crown once it’s crafted in the dental lab. While you wait, we’ll place a temporary crown to keep your tooth protected and comfortable.
Are Dental Crowns Right for You?
Dr. Dickey may recommend a dental crown if you have:
- A cracked or broken tooth
- A tooth with significant decay that can’t support a filling
- A worn-down or misshapen tooth
- A tooth that’s had root canal therapy
- A dental bridge or implant that needs coverage and support
Dental crowns are a long-lasting, versatile solution, designed to protect teeth from further damage while restoring natural function and appearance.
Dental Crown Materials We Offer
We partner with trusted labs to create high-quality crowns using materials tailored to your needs, including:
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal: A strong and reliable option that blends esthetics with durability, often used for back teeth.
- All-porcelain or ceramic: Excellent for front teeth and patients with metal sensitivities. These crowns offer a natural, metal-free look.
- Zirconia: Ultra-strong and biocompatible, zirconia crowns are great for our patients who need durability without sacrificing appearance.
- BruxZir®: Designed specifically for high-stress areas or patients who grind their teeth, these monolithic zirconia crowns are virtually unbreakable.
During your restorative consultation, we’ll walk through your options and help you choose the best material based on location, function, and cosmetic goals.
What to Expect During the Crown Process
- Initial Evaluation: Dr. Dickey will examine your tooth, take digital x-rays, and determine if a crown is the best solution.
- Tooth Preparation: We’ll gently shape the tooth to make room for the crown and take digital or physical impressions to send to our lab.
- Temporary Crown Placement: A temporary crown will be placed to protect your tooth while your permanent crown is being custom-made.
- Final Crown Placement: At your second visit, we’ll cement your permanent crown into place and make any final adjustments for a comfortable bite and flawless look.
Restore a Strong, Beautiful Smile
If you have a damaged or uncomfortable tooth, don’t wait. Big River Dental provides expertly placed crowns that restore both function and appearance.
Call our Brandon or Meadville office today to schedule your consultation and find out if a dental crown is right for you.
