What are dental crowns?

Dental crowns are permanent fixtures that fit snugly over an existing tooth. Crowns are used to protect weak or broken teeth or improve the appearance of a tooth that is badly discolored or damaged. In some cases, crowns are used to anchor a dental bridge or cover an implant root. There are a number of different crowns that can be used in Orange County and the type of crown will depend on which tooth it will cover and the reason for the treatment.

• Metal Crowns This is the traditional type of crown that many dental patients think of when they consider this procedure. The metal crown offers many advantages, including the fact that it is strong enough to withstand daily wear and tear and requires less of the tooth to be removed for application. However, most patients do not like these crowns from a cosmetic standpoint and they are generally reserved for molars in the back of the mouth where they won't be as visible.
• Porcelain Porcelain is more aesthetically pleasing than metal crowns but does not boast as much strength. Because the porcelain is molded over a metal framework, it is possible that the base of the metal will begin to show near the gum line over time. The metal also gives the porcelain an opaque appearance that doesn't resemble the natural color of the other teeth.

How is the procedure done?

Dental crowns begin with a visit to an Orange County dentist to prepare the tooth and make an impression for the crown. The tooth is usually filed down to allow room for the crown to fit into the mouth. This process is often done under a local anesthetic for the comfort of the patient. If too much of the tooth is missing already, the dentist may need to build up the tooth using a special filling substance for this purpose. Once the tooth is properly prepared, an impression is taken, which is used to create the crown.

The impression is then sent to a dental laboratory so the crown can be created. A temporary crown may be placed over the tooth in the meantime, to protect it until the permanent crown can be applied. When the permanent crown is ready, the patient returns to the dentist's office so the crown can be affixed to the tooth.

How long do crowns last?

If a crown is cared for properly, it can last a lifetime. Proper maintenance includes keeping teeth and gums healthy through daily brushing and flossing and regular visits to the dentist. Crowns do occasionally come loose or fall out and they will need to be replaced in these circumstances.