Dental Crowns in Libertyville, IL

A damaged or weakened tooth doesn't have to compromise your smile or oral health. Dental crowns provide a protective, long-lasting solution that restores both the strength and appearance of teeth affected by decay, injury, or wear, allowing you to maintain full function without worry.

At Dental Health & Beauty, we create custom crowns designed to match your natural teeth while providing the durability you need. Dr. Nicholas Polito and our team use advanced materials and techniques to deliver dental restorations that look beautiful and perform reliably for years to come. When a tooth requires more than a filling can provide, a crown offers comprehensive protection and restoration. Our general dentistry services include crowns tailored to your specific needs, whether you're addressing decay, damage, or cosmetic concerns.

A dental crown is a cap that covers the entire visible portion of a tooth, from the gum line up. Unlike fillings that repair only part of a tooth, crowns encase the entire structure, providing complete protection and support. This makes them ideal for teeth with extensive damage, large fillings, or weakness from previous treatments.

Crowns serve multiple purposes in restorative dentistry. They protect teeth after root canal therapy, restore broken or severely worn teeth, and anchor dental bridges. They can also improve the appearance of misshapen or discolored teeth, combining functional and aesthetic benefits in one treatment.

The crown procedure typically requires two visits. During the first appointment, we prepare the tooth by removing decay and reshaping it to accommodate the crown. We then take precise impressions to ensure a perfect fit. A temporary crown protects your tooth while a dental laboratory crafts your permanent restoration. At your second visit, we remove the temporary crown and carefully fit and cement the permanent one in place.

Modern crowns come in several materials, each offering distinct advantages. Porcelain crowns provide the most natural appearance, making them an excellent choice for front teeth where aesthetics matter most. The translucent quality of porcelain mimics natural tooth enamel, allowing light to pass through in a way that looks remarkably lifelike.

Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns combine strength with aesthetics. The metal core provides durability, while the porcelain outer layer offers a tooth-colored appearance. These crowns work well for back teeth where both strength and appearance are important.

Gold alloy crowns deliver exceptional durability and longevity. While not tooth-colored, they're highly biocompatible and gentle on opposing teeth. Some patients prefer gold crowns for back molars where appearance is less critical but strength is paramount.

We'll discuss the best material for your specific situation during your consultation, considering factors like the tooth's location, your bite, and your aesthetic preferences.

Several situations may call for a crown. After a root canal, a crown protects the treated tooth from fracture. The procedure removes the tooth's internal blood supply, making it more brittle and prone to breaking under chewing forces. A crown provides the structural support needed to keep the tooth functional. Large cavities that have compromised too much tooth structure may require a crown rather than a filling. When a filling would weaken the tooth further or leave insufficient healthy structure, a crown offers better long-term protection.

Broken or cracked teeth often need crowns to prevent further damage. Even small cracks can worsen over time, potentially leading to infection or tooth loss. A crown stabilizes the tooth and prevents the crack from spreading. Severely worn teeth from grinding or erosion may benefit from crowns to restore proper height and function. This helps maintain your bite alignment and prevents additional wear on other teeth. In cosmetic dentistry applications, crowns can transform teeth with permanent staining or irregular shapes into a beautiful, uniform smile.

Crowns can last 10 to 15 years or longer with proper care. Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing twice daily and flossing around your crown just as you would natural teeth. The margin where the crown meets your natural tooth requires special attention, as this area can accumulate plaque.

Regular dental checkups allow us to monitor your crown and the underlying tooth. We'll check for signs of wear, ensure the crown fits properly, and clean areas you might miss at home. Professional cleanings help prevent gum disease around crowned teeth.

Dental crowns offer a proven solution for protecting and restoring damaged teeth while maintaining a natural appearance. The right crown, properly placed and cared for, can serve you reliably for many years, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with complete confidence.

Dr. Polito brings extensive experience in restorative dentistry to every case. Our practice combines modern technology with personalized attention to create crowns that fit comfortably and look natural. We take the time to explain your options and answer your questions, ensuring you feel informed and confident about your treatment. Whether you need a single crown or multiple restorations, we're committed to delivering exceptional results. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how a dental crown can protect and enhance your smile.