The Procedure for Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are caps that cover the entire tooth, restoring its shape and size. They are used to protect teeth damaged due to decay or injury. Crowns are also placed on top of dental implants to replace missing teeth. At Carlston Dental Group, dental crowns can be made of various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, resin, and composite resin. Each material has its benefits and drawbacks. Your dentist can help you decide which type of crown is best for you based on your needs and preferences. 

Types of Dental Crowns 

Metal Crowns 

These are the most common dental crowns in West Los Angeles, CA. They are made of gold alloy, platinum, or other metal alloys. Metal crowns are solid and durable and can withstand a lot of wear and tear. However, they are less natural-looking than other crown types and less comfortable than porcelain crowns. 

Porcelain-Fused-To-Metal Crowns

These are also very common. They consist of a metal base with a porcelain veneer bonded to it. Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are more robust than all-porcelain crowns but less potent than metal ones. They are also more natural-looking and comfortable than metal crowns. 

All-Ceramic Crowns 

These crowns are made of ceramic material only. They are not as strong as metal crowns but are much more natural-looking. All-ceramic crowns are usually used for front teeth because they are less durable than other types of crowns. 

The Process for Getting a Dental Crown 

A crown is placed over a tooth to restore shape, size, strength, and appearance. It’s usually made of porcelain or ceramic material. Our dentist may recommend a crown if your tooth is decayed or damaged. 

Placing a crown requires two visits to our dentist’s office. During the first visit, the dentist in West Los Angeles, CA, will numb the area with a local anesthetic. Then, they will remove the decay from the tooth and prepare it to receive the crown. Next, the dentist will take an impression of your teeth and send it to the lab where the crown will be made. In the meantime, the dentist will place a temporary crown over the tooth to protect it. 

At the second appointment, the dentist will remove the temporary crown and place the permanent one. They will check to ensure it fits appropriately before cementing it. After the procedure, you may experience some discomfort, sensitivity, or pain. However, these symptoms should go away after a few days. Be sure to follow our dentist’s aftercare instructions carefully. 

Dental crowns are a reliable solution for repairing and strengthening damaged teeth while enhancing your smile's aesthetics. Visit Carlston Dental Group at 2472 Overland Ave, West Los Angeles, CA 90064, or call (310) 838-0844 to explore the best crown option for your specific needs, ensuring that your crown is a perfect match for your natural teeth and that you enjoy the benefits of a stronger, more confident smile.