A dental crown is a custom-made "cap" placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. When cemented into place, the crown fully encases the entire visible portion of a tooth that lies at and above the gum line. This procedure is the standard of care for protecting weakened teeth and restoring your bite's functionality.
Why Do I Need a Dental Crown?
Our Vallejo dental team recommends crowns for several clinical and cosmetic reasons:
- Structural Reinforcement: A crown protects a weak tooth (usually from decay) from breaking or holds together parts of a cracked tooth.
- Post-Root Canal Care: After a root canal, the tooth becomes brittle. A crown acts as a protective shield to prevent the tooth from splitting under pressure.
- Cosmetic Enhancement: Crowns cover misshapen or severely discolored teeth, providing a uniform, natural-looking smile.
- Tooth Replacement: Crowns serve as the functional "tooth" on top of a dental implant or as anchors for a dental bridge.
What Materials Are Used for Crowns?
The choice of material depends on the location of the tooth and your specific goals for durability and aesthetics:
- Porcelain or Ceramic: These provide the best natural color match and are ideal for front teeth.
- Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM): These offer a stronger bond than regular porcelain because they are connected to a metal structure.
- Gold and Metal Alloys: These are the most durable options. Because they rarely chip or break, they are excellent for back molars that endure heavy chewing forces.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
On average, dental crowns last between 10 and 20 years. Their lifespan depends heavily on the "wear and tear" the crown takes and how well you follow oral hygiene practices.
To maximize the life of your restoration, avoid biting your fingernails, chewing ice, or using your teeth to open packaging. Regular cleanings at our Vallejo office are essential to ensure the underlying tooth remains healthy and decay-free.
Affordable Dental Care in Vallejo, CA
We believe everyone deserves a functional smile. If you are concerned about the cost of a crown, contact our Vallejo dental office to ask our special program for uninsured patients. We provide restorative care to residents in Vallejo, American Canyon, Benicia, Glen Cove, Crocket, Green Valley, and Napa.