Dental Crowns in La Jolla & Poway
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Severe tooth decay has the potential to cause significant damage to a tooth, reaching a point where a simple filling is insufficient to maintain its integrity. If left untreated, the tooth's condition can deteriorate further. Fortunately, in such cases, dental crowns come to the rescue as a reliable solution.
Dental crowns are among our most crucial restorative offerings. They play a pivotal role in salvaging broken or decayed teeth by providing support and protection against further harm. Additionally, they serve as an excellent replacement for aesthetically displeasing teeth, enhancing the overall appearance of your smile.
The versatility of a crown extends beyond restoration purposes. It serves as a viable option to cover discolored or misshapen teeth, and it can also be used to cap a dental implant effectively. With a crown in place, your tooth not only gains strength but also improves in its visual appeal.
It's essential to treat a crowned tooth with the same care as a natural tooth. Maintaining good oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing, flossing, and attending routine checkups with your dentist, will ensure the longevity and success of your dental crowns. Remember, a crown functions like a natural tooth, and proper care will keep your smile healthy and radiant.
What is a Dental Crown?
Dental crowns, also known as caps, are custom-made fake teeth that fit over damaged teeth. They serve multiple purposes, including protecting weakened teeth after root canals or large fillings. Crowns are also used as cosmetic treatments to enhance the appearance of misshapen or discolored teeth.
Several types of crowns are available, each with its unique characteristics in terms of appearance and strength.
Metal Crowns
Made from gold or alloys, these are the most durable crowns. However, their metallic appearance may not make them ideal for highly visible teeth.
Ceramic Crowns
Crafted from porcelain, ceramic crowns offer excellent aesthetics and are a preferred option for front teeth. However, they may not be suitable for molars due to their fragility.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns
These combine the strength of metal alloys with the aesthetics of porcelain. However, the metal edge may become visible at the gum line, affecting the overall appearance.
Zirconia Crowns
Tooth-colored zirconia crowns are durable, but they may not match the aesthetics of porcelain or be as gentle on opposing teeth as metal alloys.
Procedure Overview
The Dental Crown Procedure
Once the best crown type is determined, the process typically involves two appointments.
- Tooth Preparation: Any decay is removed, and fillings or root canals are performed if needed. Enough enamel is trimmed to accommodate the crown, with metal crowns requiring the least removal.
- Impressions and Temporary Crown: An impression of your teeth is taken to create a custom crown that matches your smile. A temporary crown is placed to protect the prepared tooth while the final crown is crafted.
- Permanent Crown Placement: Once the personalized crown is ready, it is permanently attached using a bonding resin.
- Caring for Dental Crowns: While crowns themselves cannot decay, it is crucial to maintain good oral hygiene to prevent tooth decay underneath the crown. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups are essential to ensure the longevity of your crown, which can last from 10 to 50 years with proper care.
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At Wellness Dental Group, we take pride in setting ourselves apart from other dental practices in La Jolla and Poway.
Our commitment to the community extends beyond dental care, as we consider ourselves part of a network of caretakers who prioritize the health and well-being of our friends and neighbors in La Jolla, Poway, and the surrounding areas. As a locally-owned practice, we are part of a legacy of providing top-quality general dentistry.