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Los Gatos Dentist Describes Uses of Dental Crowns

There are many different types of cosmetic and restorative dental procedures and treatments being discussed online and in the news today, and it’s understandable that there may be some confusion about which treatment best suits your situation - dental implants, crowns, bridges, or dentures. Today I’d like to speak to you specifically about crowns, their uses and benefits.

What is a dental crown?
Dental crowns ("caps") are one of dentistry's most versatile types of restorations. Crowns are a type of dental restoration which, when cemented into place, fully cups over the portion of a tooth that lies at and above the gum line. In comparison, fillings are dental restorations that fill in or cover just a portion of a tooth. Since dental crowns encase the entire visible aspect of a tooth, a dental crown in effect becomes the tooth's new outer surface.

Although there are several types of crowns porcelain are the most popular. They are highly durable and will last many years. Porcelain crowns are made to match the shape, size, and color or your teeth giving you a natural, long-lasting beautiful smile.

When is a dental crown used?
A crown essentially becomes the new tooth, restoring it to its original shape. Dental crowns may be used to strengthen broken, fractured teeth, cover large or fractured fillings or for cosmetic enhancement. In addition, all teeth that have root canal treatment should have a crown placed.  This protects the tooth, prevents it from breaking, and restores it to its full function.

What does getting a crown involve?
A crown procedure usually requires two appointments.  Your first appointment at our Los Gatos, CA Dentist Office will include taking several highly accurate molds (or impressions) used to create a temporary crown as well as your permanent custom crown.  

The tooth is prepared by removing any decay, filling if necessary, and shaping the surface to properly fit the crown.  Your temporary crown is then placed and it will test be tested to ensure a proper bite.

At your second appointment your temporary crown will be removed, the tooth will be cleaned, and your new crown will be carefully placed to ensure that spacing and bite are accurate. You will receive instructions for care and cleaning before you are sent home with a beautiful, enhanced smile.