Everything You Need to Know About Dental Crowns
When a tooth is significantly fractured, decaying, or damaged, a dentist may prescribe a dental crown. Dental crowns are restorative prosthesis that are used to restore the natural form, size, function, and appearance of a tooth.
Crowns are custom-made to fit over a tooth to preserve decayed or fractured teeth, as well as to support teeth with massive fillings. A crown is a dental restoration that covers the area of a tooth above the gum line and replaces the worn or broken crown of a natural tooth, but it can also cover the root. Take a peek at how a dental crown is created and how it is fitted. Then contact California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 for a dental cleaning and exam.
Fittings for dental crowns
Getting a dental crown usually requires two visits to the dentist. Your dentist will evaluate your teeth and prepare it for a crown on the first appointment. Your dentist will begin shaping the tooth to support the crown by filing it. If the tooth is significantly broken or decayed, the dentist will need to fill it to strengthen it so that the crown can be supported.
An imprint of the tooth is taken once it has been appropriately formed. The impression of your tooth will be used to mold the crown, creating an exact copy. The impression of the tooth is transported to a dental lab, where it will be fashioned into a crown using metal or porcelain materials. Until the permanent crown is ready, your dentist will place a temporary crown. The temporary crown is removed during the second appointment, and the permanent crown is placed to the tooth that was sculpted to support the dental crown.
Materials for dental crowns
A dental crown can be made out of four distinct materials: base metal alloys, gold alloys, porcelain fused to metal, and ceramic. Crowns built of base metal alloys are comprised of non-noble metals and have a high level of durability and strength. Gold alloy crowns are made up of gold and copper, and they are a strong substance that sticks to the tooth structure.
Porcelain fused to metal crowns include a metal frame for strength and are then fused with porcelain to create a long-lasting, sturdy crown that prevents leaks and reduces tooth decay. Ceramic crowns are made from a porcelain-based filling and have a natural appearance and feel. Under severe biting pressure, ceramic crowns may become brittle and more prone to wear. The cost of a crown is determined by the material used for the crown.
If you believe you require a crown, please call California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 to schedule an appointment.
