Dental crowns are restorations used in various capacities across dentistry. The crowns are custom crafted to look like your natural teeth in color and shape, so they blend in naturally with your untreated teeth.
If your dentist in Vallejo, CA, recommends a dental crown, it may be because you have a damaged tooth needing stabilization and support. But this is not the only reason you might need a tooth crown.
Why Do I Need a Dental Crown?
Dental crowns offer a variety of essential uses. And if you need one, your dentist will talk to you about the reasons, which we’ve listed below.
Dental Crowns for Tooth Support
If your tooth is at-risk for breakage or loss, your dentist typically talks to you about capping the tooth with a crown to restore stability.
Your tooth may be at risk for various reasons, including deep decay, damage, or previous breakage. However, when the tooth is capped with a crown, it creates a safe space between your bite force and the at-risk tooth.
Dental Crowns After Root Canal Therapy
Tooth canal infections can severely weaken tooth structure. So, after we’ve treated the tooth with root canal therapy, we often recommend a dental crown at your next visit to support the lost structure.
Dental Crowns in Cosmetic Dentistry
Because tooth crowns cover your tooth to the gumline, they conceal flaws, including:
- Chips and cracks
- Discoloration and stains
- Abnormal shape
- Small gaps between teeth
Dental Crowns in Tooth Replacement
A Dental crown acts as a new tooth after dental implant placement. The crown caps the dental implant at the gumline to complete your smile.
Additionally, two dental crowns anchor bridge teeth to healthy supporting teeth. Bridge teeth are artificial but designed to look natural and like your biological teeth.
What Are Dental Crowns Made Of?
Dentists rely on various materials to create dental crowns. And your Vallejo, CA, dentist can talk to you about which option best fits your needs and budget.
Our dental crowns can be full porcelain, porcelain fused with metal, or full metal (for example, gold).
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
Typically, full metal or gold crowns offer superior longevity. A metal or gold crown can last up to 20 years or longer. A porcelain or porcelain-fused-to-metal crown may last up to 15 years or longer.
However, longevity depends a lot on healthy habits. For example, if you brush and floss regularly and visit your dentist for checkups and teeth cleanings, you typically get more mileage out of your restorations and dental work!
For crown care, you brush and floss at least twice daily; after every meal would be even better. And never use your crowns (or teeth) for anything other than chewing or smiling. Don’t twist off caps or chew on ink pens or ice.
Additionally, if your tooth crown feels loose or becomes damaged, contact our dental office as soon as possible to book an appointment with the dentist.
Dental Crowns in Vallejo, CA
If you want more information about our restorative dentistry or are ready to book a consultation with the dentist, call us today to get started. And ask us about our special program for the uninsured and how it can potentially save you money at your next dental visit.
We serve all locations, including American Canyon, Benicia, Glen Cove, Crocket, Green Valley, and Napa, CA.