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An unappealing tooth in your smile can leave you feeling self-conscious and socially awkward. To restore the cosmetic appearance of a single tooth, Dr. Crawford A. Tatum Jr. will often recommend restoring the entire enamel layer of the tooth with a porcelain or porcelain-fused-to-metal dental crown.

A dental crown in Opelika, Alabama, is essentially a perfect replica of the enamel layer of the tooth. The crown itself is hollow so it can be anchored on a post-like abutment that is formed from the core structures of the tooth.

Your dentist will start the treatment by removing the entire tooth enamel layer with a drill. Then, they will make an impression of the abutment and any corresponding teeth in your bite pattern.

The impression will be sent to a dental lab where the porcelain crown is custom made. Then, a hard, plastic, temporary crown will be cemented over the abutment to protect it.

Dr. Crawford A. Tatum Jr. will call you back in for a follow-up appointment when your porcelain crown is ready. The temporary crown will be removed and the new crown will be cemented directly onto the abutment during this appointment.

If you have an unappealing tooth in your smile, you should call Tatum & Cox at 334-745-6393 to explore your cosmetic restoration options.