Dental Crowns Specialist
-
- Tweet
Avalon Dental
General and Cosmetic Dentistry located in San Ramon, CA
Dental crowns are more common than you might think. In fact, the number of Americans with dental crowns is on the rise. According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, 15 million people in the United States have crowns put in place of missing teeth. Dr. Cliff Broschinsky at Avalon Dental is an experienced professional, so if you think you may need a crown, book an appointment online or call today. Avalon Dental is conveniently located near you in San Ramon, California.
Dental Crowns Q & A
What is a crown?
A crown is a tooth-shaped "cap" that's used to cover a damaged or weak tooth. It is sculpted to the shape of the original tooth and can enhance the tooth's appearance and stability. The crown fits over the tooth and is cemented into place so that the original tooth is completely encased.
Do I need a crown?
There are a variety of reasons Dr. Broschinsky may suggest a crown. A crown can cover a strangely-shaped or dark tooth, or a dental implant.
Crowns are more than cosmetic solutions. They can cover and protect a weak or cracked natural tooth. Crowns can strengthen teeth that have been weakened by excessively large fillings or that are in danger of breaking.
Dental crowns can restore your smile's beauty. They can also be a reliable solution for teeth that need strengthening as a result of severe decay, cracks, fractures, or fillings.
What are the different types of crowns?
Crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including:
- Stainless steel
- Gold or another alloy
- Porcelain fused to metal
- Resin
- Ceramic
The material used for your crown will depend on your situation and the crown's purpose. For example, stainless steel is typically the go-to material for temporary crowns. Stainless steel crowns are often prefabricated and are a frequent choice for children who need crowns on baby teeth.
Metal crowns are sturdy and able to endure the force of chewing and eating, but because of their color, they're usually reserved for use on back molars.
Porcelain fused to metal crowns are closer in appearance to natural teeth than stainless steel crowns; however, they do have some disadvantages. For instance, the metal portion of the crown might be visible as a dark line close to the gums, and the opposing teeth might endure more wear than with other types of crowns.
All-resin crowns are more affordable, which makes them an appealing choice for many patients, but they're also more prone to fractures. All-ceramic crowns are the best choice for men and women with metal allergies.
What's involved with a dental crown procedure?
A majority of the time, a minimum of two appointments is required to complete a dental crown procedure. The first visit will include X-rays so that Dr. Broschinsky can assess the health of the tooth that requires the crown.
Next, Dr. Broschinsky will use a local anesthetic to numb the tooth and its surrounding tissue. The tooth will be filed down or built up so that the crown will fit properly and securely. Once the tooth has been prepared, the dentist will take an impression of your teeth. The impression will be sent to the lab and used to custom-make the crown. The impression will be sent to the lab and used to custom-make the crown. A temporary crown will then be created and placed to protect your tooth until the permanent crown can be placed.
To learn more about dental crowns, call Avalon Dental or make an appointment online.
