What Are Dental Crowns and How Effective Are They?

Dental crowns serve as vital solutions for repairing teeth that have undergone wear and tear. Unlike veneers, these restorative devices cover the entire tooth, restoring both its appearance and function. However, the effectiveness of dental crowns largely hinges on factors such as the type of crown selected, the application process, and ongoing care.

Why Dentists Recommend Dental Crowns

Our skilled dentist in Pleasanton, CA, may advise getting dental crowns if you have severely worn, weakened, misshapen, or uneven teeth. Additionally, dental crowns can serve the purpose of supporting a dental bridge or concealing teeth implants.

Dental crowns can also be beneficial for children who are susceptible to decay. A nearby tooth crown dentist may utilize stainless steel crowns for primary teeth to shield them from decay and cavities.

Types of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns in Dublin come in various materials, each with distinct characteristics such as appearance, durability, and cost. The main types include:

All-Metal Crowns: These crowns are constructed from materials like gold, silver, platinum, or metal alloys. They offer exceptional strength and can withstand the pressures of biting and chewing. However, their aesthetic appeal is limited, making them most suitable for rear teeth.

All-Porcelain or Ceramic Crowns: Resembling natural teeth in color, these crowns provide a seamless appearance. They can be applied to any tooth, including those in the front. Although porcelain crowns are similar in cost to metal ones, they are somewhat less durable and prone to discoloration and damage over time.

Crowns with Porcelain Fused to Metal: These crowns combine the aesthetic benefits of porcelain with the strength of metal.

While they can be used on any tooth, they are best suited for posterior teeth. However, a visible dark line on the gums can occur due to the metal portion.

All-Resin Crowns: These crowns are the most economical option but lack the durability of other crown types. They are more susceptible to fractures than porcelain or ceramic crowns.

Stainless Steel Crowns: Prefabricated in the dental office, stainless steel crowns often serve as temporary measures. Our tooth crown dentist may use these crowns to safeguard teeth while waiting for permanent ones. They require a simpler procedure and are particularly suitable for children.

Amount of Tooth Structure Required

Though some tooth reshaping is necessary to accommodate dental crowns, adequate tooth structure is crucial for proper bonding. Insufficient tooth support can lead to dislodgement. The dentist may take additional steps to create necessary support before crown placement, often using composite material for reinforcement.

The Crown Placement Process

Fitting dental crowns near you typically entails two dental visits and several steps:

First Visit:

• The dentist evaluates your jaw and assesses the extent of damage and remaining tooth support.
• Any preexisting issues like decay are addressed before proceeding.
• The teeth receive minimal preparation to facilitate crown bonding, which may cause temporary sensitivity. Local anesthesia is used to numb the gums.
• Temporary crowns are placed to safeguard your teeth while awaiting the permanent ones.
• A cast or impression of the reshaped teeth is taken to craft the permanent crowns.

Second Dental Visit:

• Scheduled three to four weeks after tooth reshaping, this visit involves removing the temporary crowns.
• The teeth and gums are cleaned, and a special cement is employed to secure the permanent crowns.
• Laser light can be used to expedite the cement’s hardening process.

How Long Do Crowns Last on Teeth?

One popular question is how long dental crowns survive on teeth. They may continue to operate for up to 30 years with the right maintenance, offering reliable support and defense during that time. Porcelain crowns, while aesthetically pleasing, typically provide a lifespan of 5 to 15 years. The durability of a crown hinges on factors like the level of wear and tear it experiences, a patient’s oral hygiene practices, and regular dental examinations. Regular check-ups are essential to assess the condition of your crowns and ensure their longevity.

Dental crowns, while not demanding special dental care, require proper attention to ensure their longevity. For further information about dental crowns and what to anticipate, we invite you to visit View Mobile Dental. Contact us immediately if you’re interested in scheduling a consultation with our experienced dental crown dentist. Our dental services extend to residents in Pleasanton, Livermore, Westport Village, San Ramon, and nearby communities.