Lowell Porcelain Crowns

Porcelain crowns placed by Lowell dentist Dr. Szarek are visually indistinguishable from the surrounding natural teeth. That's because he has years of advanced training in porcelain restorative techniques and works with world-renowned ceramist Mike Bellerino to create high-quality porcelain crowns that are both natural-looking and durable.

What is a crown?

A crown (also called a cap) is a protective covering placed over a tooth that covers the entire surface of the tooth, extending to the gumline. Crowns are used when there is a large area of tooth damage or decay, greater than that which could be repaired with a filling, but the root of the tooth remains healthy.

ALL WORK PERFORMED BY DR. SZAREK

 

For many years, crowns were made of metal, usually gold, because it was the only material strong enough to withstand the constant pressures of biting and chewing without breakage. Ceramic (porcelain) was sometimes used to cover the metal on front teeth to achieve a more natural look. But, these crowns, known as porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns are still more opaque than the surrounding teeth and often show a gray line where the crown meets the gum.

All-porcelain crowns

Newer technology has created bonding techniques and materials that allow creation of all-porcelain crowns that are bonded directly to the teeth. These crowns can be specifically shaped and color-matched to the surrounding teeth by a skilled cosmetic dentist.

However, the skills needed to create a natural result with these materials are often not taught in dental school and dentists who do them need extra training to learn the complex techniques, artistry and color manipulation necessary to place these crowns. Dr. Szarek has both the additional training and experience with these materials. Even when placing porcelain-fused-to metal crowns he is able to prevent the tell-tale “gray line” at the gum by using a special technique.

In addition, he can help you determine whether an all-porcelain crown or PFM crown is most appropriate for your situation. Dr. Szarek believes that in some situations, particularly with crowns on back molars, a porcelain-fused-to-metal crown may be the best choice.