Rochester, MI area dentist explains a tooth cap vs. a dental crown

At the practice of Dr. John L. Aurelia and Dr. Dina Khoury, Rochester, MI area patients can enjoy a wide range of general and restorative dentistry solutions. When patients take the time to learn about restorations such as dental crowns, they are eager to learn how they can be used to repair issues in the smile.

A tooth cap vs. a dental crown?

Caps and crowns are references to the same restoration. Crowns are the proper name, while caps are how patients sometimes refer to them. They are used to “cap” the top of a natural tooth to protect it or offer an extra layer of strength. Crowns are also placed over dental implants to replace missing teeth.

Why use a dental crown?

Dental crowns are available for a variety of situations. Below are just a few times when patients may benefit from their placement:

• Dental crowns can be used to cover a tooth that has undergone a root canal, which can leave the tooth structure weak or brittle. The crown is placed to offer extra strength and durability to protect the tooth.
• Dental crowns are used over the abutment of a dental implant to act as a false tooth. This restores the smile’s function and beauty with a permanent tooth replacement solution.
• Dental crowns are placed on teeth that have had very large fillings, because the amount of decay removed may cause the tooth to become weak. Placing a dental crown over the top can enhance the strength of a tooth and keep it from becoming broken with strong impact or chewing forces.

Who is a candidate for a dental crown?

Most patients can benefit from dental crowns. They are placed over natural teeth in a variety of situations, and are a common restoration used in general and cosmetic dentistry.

How are dental crowns made?

The fabrication and placement of dental crowns takes some time to complete. The process starts with an evaluation to determine if it is the best possible solution for a patient. Then, preparations are made with the removal of natural tooth enamel. Impressions are taken and then sent to a laboratory where a ceramist fabricates the crown. Once completed, it is sent to the dentist and the patient returns to have their final restoration bonded into place. In the meantime, patients can have a temporary crown put in place for the interim.

Ready to discuss dental restoration solutions with a quality dentist?

Dr. John L. Aurelia and Dr. Dina Khoury of Rochester Hills, MI are dedicated to helping patients assess the need for dental restorations within the smile. Their practice, located at 804 N. Main Street #201A, welcomes new patients. Call (248) 243-6044 today to book an appointment with our friendly front office staff.

Dr. John Aurelia
Connect with John L. Aurelia on Linkedin.

Dr. John Aurelia, DDS, brings over two decades of expertise in dentistry, having earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Detroit Mercy in 2003. An active member of the Academy of General Dentistry and the American and Michigan Dental Associations, Dr. Aurelia has also completed advanced studies at the Dawson Academy and Pankey Institute. His dedication extends beyond practice, with a history of humanitarian work in the Dominican Republic and a focus on integrating cutting-edge techniques in implants and cosmetic dentistry. Known for personalized care, Dr. Aurelia is committed to enhancing patients' smiles and confidence.

Dr. Dina Khoury

Dr. Dina Khoury, a dedicated dentist with over 20 years of experience, graduated from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry in 1995. Following her education, she served veterans during her residency at the VA Hospital in Dayton, Ohio. Dr. Khoury has spent most of her career in private practice, focusing on patients of all ages and specializing in cosmetic dentistry. As an active member of the Rochester community, she combines professional expertise with a personal commitment to patient care and local engagement.