Dental Crowns in Wilmington, NC

When a tooth is cracked, severely decayed, or weakened after a root canal, a filling just won't cut it. That's where dental crowns come in. At Bonded Beginnings in Wilmington, NC, Norma Cortez uses custom-crafted crowns to restore damaged teeth to their full strength and natural appearance.

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is essentially a cap that fits over your entire tooth, covering everything above the gum line. It's custom-made to match the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth, so once it's in place, it looks and functions just like the real thing. Think of it as a protective helmet for a tooth that's been through some trauma.

When Do You Need a Crown?

Crowns are one of the most versatile restorations in dentistry. Norma Cortez might recommend a crown if you have:

• A cracked or fractured tooth – To hold the pieces together and prevent further damage
• Severe decay – When there's not enough healthy tooth structure left for a filling
• A root canal – To protect and strengthen the treated tooth
• A large old filling – When the filling is failing or the tooth around it is weakening
• Cosmetic concerns – To improve the appearance of a misshapen or severely discolored tooth
• A dental implant – Crowns are placed on top of implants to replace missing teeth

Crown Materials: Your Options

Not all crowns are created equal. We offer several materials depending on your needs:

• Porcelain/Ceramic – The most natural-looking option, ideal for front teeth
• Porcelain-fused-to-metal – Combines strength with aesthetics
• Gold or metal alloys – Extremely durable, often used for back teeth
• Zirconia – Strong and natural-looking, a great all-around choice

Norma Cortez will help you choose the best material based on the tooth's location, your bite, and your aesthetic preferences.

The Crown Process

Getting a crown typically involves two appointments:

1. First Visit – We prepare the tooth by removing a thin layer of enamel, take detailed impressions, and place a temporary crown to protect your tooth while the permanent one is being made.
2. Second Visit – We remove the temporary crown, check the fit and color of your new crown, and cement it permanently in place.

The whole process is straightforward, and most patients are pleasantly surprised at how comfortable it is.

Protect Your Smile

If you have a damaged tooth that needs attention, don't wait until it gets worse. Call Bonded Beginnings at 910-763-0931 to schedule your dental crown consultation with Norma Cortez. We're proud to serve patients throughout Wilmington, NC and help them keep their smiles strong and healthy.