A dental crown is a tooth-shaped “cap” that is placed over an injured tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength, while also improving its appearance. We often recommend this restorative treatment for teeth that have undergone root canal therapy, are severely decayed or damaged, or have broken due to trauma, such as a blow to the mouth or a car accident. We can also use crowns to cover a discolored or misshapen tooth, and to support dental bridgework.
A crown can be made of a variety of materials. Metal crowns (gold, platinum, nickel-chromium alloys) are very durable and resist biting and chewing forces well. They last longer than porcelain crowns, but their metallic color may detract from your smile. We can use metal crowns to repair molars that are not visible when you open your mouth wide or yawn, and we can even place a gold crown on the front of a tooth that shows when you smile.
Porcelain crowns are tooth-colored and provide a more natural look than metal ones. They are less durable than metal, but they blend in well with the surrounding teeth and are therefore a good choice for visible front teeth. However, over time, they may chip or crack. Porcelain fused to metal crowns are a good compromise between durability and aesthetics. They have a metal interior to support the structure of the tooth, and a porcelain exterior to match your other teeth.
Your cosmetic dentist will anesthetize the tooth and the gum tissue around it to prevent pain and discomfort during the crowning process. Then the tooth will be reshaped along the chewing surface and sides to make room for the crown. Using a paste or putty, we will then make an impression of the tooth that is sent to a lab to create your customized crown. We will also take a digital scan of your jaw to ensure the crown fits correctly with your other teeth.
You can promote the lifespan of your new crown by practicing excellent oral hygiene at home and visiting our practice for regular teeth cleanings, checkups, and fluoride treatments. This will help you avoid cavities that can weaken the tooth and lead to a fractured crown. We also encourage patients to wear a mouthguard when they sleep to prevent clenching and grinding, which can cause damage to both natural teeth and dental work like crowns.
Cost of a dental crown can vary widely depending on the type of crown and the material used. Our insurance-friendly Torrance dental clinic is pleased to work with many dental plans and will file your insurance claims for you. We offer flexible payment plans as well.