Are you considering dental crowns to replace missing teeth? Crowns are the right choice for many men and women, and they might be the right choice for you, too. According to findings from the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, 15 million people in the United States have crowns put in place of missing teeth. Jacob Ming, DDS, at Heritage Dental is a highly trained professional that can explain your crown options. Call or make an appointment online if you suspect you may need a new crown or crown repair. Heritage Dental is conveniently located near you in Hayward, California.
A crown is a piece of metal, plastic, ceramic, or porcelain that covers a damaged tooth. It is sculpted to the shape of the original tooth and can enhance its strength and appearance. The crown goes over the original tooth and is bonded into place, so the tooth is completely covered, from the gum line up.
There are a variety of reasons Dr. Ming at Heritage Dental may suggest a crown. A crown can cover a dental implant or a discolored or oddly-shaped tooth.
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.
There are a variety of dental crown materials to consider. Crowns can be made from:
The choice of material depends on multiple factors. For example, stainless steel is typically the go-to material for temporary crowns. It's common for dentists to use prefabricated stainless steel crowns to cap children's baby teeth.
Metal crowns are durable and able to withstand the impact of chewing and biting, but due to their striking color, they're usually reserved for use on back molars.
Porcelain fused to metal crowns are more aesthetically pleasing than stainless steel crowns, but they aren't perfect. For example, 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 generally a less expensive option, but are also more prone to cracking, whereas all-ceramic crowns are the best option for people who have metal allergies.
A dental crown procedure typically involves two visits to the dentist, at a minimum. At the first appointment, you'll have X-rays taken so that your dental professional at Heritage Dental can ascertain the condition of the tooth that’s getting a crown.
Next, Dr. Ming will administer anesthesia to numb the tooth and surrounding tissues. The tooth is built up or filed down so that the crown will fit snugly. After, he will take an impression of your teeth. The impression will go to the dental lab and be used to create a custom crown. Dr. Ming will place a temporary crown over your tooth until the permanent crown is completed.
Getting a dental crown can be a simple, easy process. To discuss your crown options, contact the experienced team at Heritage Dental or make an appointment online.
