Versatile Dental Crowns for Dental Restoration and to rebuild vibrant smiles

Crowns are a natural part of the teeth. They are the white, visible part of each tooth that is seen above the pinkish gumline. However, our natural crowns can be marred or weakened by the effects of progressive tooth decay, gum (periodontal) disease, or acute trauma or injuries. We at Westlake Family Dentistry can rebuild the damaged crown with lifelike, durable, and highly functional dental crowns designed and placed from our advanced and inviting office in Lake Oswego, Oregon.

Crowns save natural teeth

Crowns are a type of dental restoration. Other restorations include fillings, inlays, and onlays (also known as “partial crowns”). Generally, the more damaged the tooth structure, the greater the “coverage” or more extensive the dental restoration required to restore the tooth to health, attractive appearance, and functionality. Filings may be sufficient to “fill in” cavities or holes produced by decay. However, if cavities are larger, we do not recommend fillings simply because large fillings are more vulnerable to breakage over time. We promote conservative dentistry that is in the best interest of the patient over the long term. In this case, we may recommend a dental inlay or partial crown as an alternative to a large dental filling made from materials such as composite resin. If an inlay or onlay is insufficient to rebuild the damaged areas of the tooth and to adequately restore its structure, then a full-coverage dental crown may be recommended.

Dental crowns often follow root canal therapy. Root canal treatment resolves deep decay or infections at the center of the tooth (its pulp tissue). It is a last resort procedure because it may be the only way to preserve a badly infected tooth and avoid the tooth being removed during an extraction procedure. Dental crowns may also be used as tooth replacement methods, such as dental bridges and implants. Crowns are placed on anchor teeth in a bridge to hold up the replacement tooth or pontic. Likewise, crowns may be the finishing touch following the placement of implants to support bridges or dentures.

Before & After Treatment Images

  • Molly had decades of mismatched dental work.
  • We were able to make-over her smile, giving Molly a natural-looking, bright, and healthy smile that she enjoys showing off!
  • The patient is now more confident on her smile and the overall appearance
Smile Makeovers Before After 05 - Westlake Family Dentistry
  • This patient wanted to have a harmonized smile that looked more natural after several mismatched restorations.
  • Replacing his crowns with the latest materials provided a more natural looking smile that looked fantastic!
Smile Makeovers Before After 10 - Westlake Family Dentistry

The porcelain crowns process

Dr. Sievert shapes crowns with dental porcelain. This material is coveted for its ability to mimic natural tooth structure in appearance and function. So, it is very durable and holds up well. It is also appropriate for patients with sensitivities to metals. Additionally, we can perfectly color-match the porcelain to blend in with the shade of the surrounding teeth in your smile. The process itself is straightforward and involves removing damaged tissue and shaping it to “accept” the crown. The crown itself is designed from a model of your tooth. A temporary crown is typically worn to protect the prepared tooth structure and treatment site while the permanent crown is being made by our lab. Once that crown is ready to be placed, you return to our office. The temporary is removed, and we assure the permanent fits and looks perfect before cementing it to the natural tooth. Afterward, it’s time to smile without embarrassment and pain!

Call us today at (503) 386-4164 to start the process and to book your appointment.