Crowns (Caps)

A crown is a replacement outer covering, much like a thimble, that fits over and strengthens a tooth and restores its appearance and function. A crown is needed if a tooth has been extensively damaged, such as from:

  • Tooth decay
  • Fractured or broken section of a tooth
  • An old, large filling that is coming apart or failing

Types of Crowns

There are different types of crowns for different purposes. The most common type of crown is a porcelain crown with a ceramic, or sometimes metallic, core to give it strength. These crowns are very strong and look like a natural tooth. The metal inside the crown is often an alloy of gold. On the back teeth, or molars, especially where it is difficult to see, a gold crown is often the perfect choice because of its strength and durability (average durability is 20-40 years with good hygiene and dental care).

The procedure for affixing a crown:

  • Shaping the tooth to remove the decay in or around it.
  • Re-sculpturing the tooth to provide an ideal fit for the crown.
  • Making a digital image of your teeth in order to create a custom-made crown.
  • Making a temporary crown out of tooth colored resin and fitting it onto the tooth during the interim period until the permanent custom-made crown is being created.
  • Applying the permanent crown when it is received from the lab by removing the temporary crown and fitting the permanent one onto the tooth.
  • After ensuring that the crown has the proper look and fit, the dentist cements it into place.

Crowns can be expected to last for a number of years providing the person performs good oral hygiene and regular professional care. If you are in need of a crown, please contact our office today to schedule your initial appointment.

What Our Patients Say

Beginning in 1995 Dr. Ward took over my dental care. She has proven to be as painless as I believe possible. My bridges have performed perfectly. My extractions have been very few, and my partial is working without incident. I recommend that anyone needing dental work consider using Dr. Ward.

Rudolph Hughes

Since having my first traumatic experience as a 9 year old with an army dentist I was always anxious about going to the dentist; my muscles would get tense, and I would grip the arms of the dentist chair, anticipating the worst.
But what a difference Dr. Ward has made in my previously harrowing experiences with dentists. With her calm caring manner and soothing touch, I actually became more relaxed in the dentist chair. What a relief!

Then as a bonus, there are times she would softly hum a tune which even makes me more calm, like a mother soothing an anxious baby – I guess I must have been a big baby when it came to dentists, but not anymore! Thank God for Dr. Ward! And her friendly staff aren’t too bad either.

Deanna Little

One day during my morning prayer and meditation I had to look up the word honorable. The word is rich in meaning and implies the purest, highest, noblest kind of goodness. Honorable means “lovely”, “winsome”, “gracious”, “noble” and “excellent’. Your name, Winsome, definitely describes your character and your practice. God bless and keep you!!!

Jan Paul

Very gentle, very competent. I am very appreciative of your skill and skill of your staff. Thanks.

Shawna Silva

Dr. Ward, I want you to know how much I appreciate the care I have received here. I am so happy with the improvement in my gums, and it is because of your emphasis on preventive oral care. It has made a huge difference, and I thank you.

Dave Diaz