Services
Porcelain Dental Crowns
Porcelain crowns, also known as “caps” are a common restoration in modern dentistry. Crowns can play many roles in a healthy smile. This common dental restoration may be used to support and stabilize a severely damaged or weakened tooth. They can protect a root canal-treated tooth. They can improve the look of a misshapen or damaged tooth. They can even replace missing teeth by supporting a dental bridge or restoring a dental implant. Our dentists at Hamlin Dental Group can help you decide if a crown is right for you.
Several types of crowns are used today, including full metal, porcelain fused to metal or PFM, and full porcelain. The type of crown we recommend can vary based on the location of the tooth and your needs and preferences.
THE DENTAL CROWN PROCEDURE – HOW IT WORKS?
The procedure for getting a crown is fairly straightforward. First, the tooth is prepared. Our dentists use a local anesthetic to numb the treatment area and then remove the decayed tissue. The tooth will be shaped to make room for the crown. Sometimes, an additional procedure is needed to ensure a good fit for the crown, this procedure is called build-up and its job is to help support the crown.
Once the tooth is prepared, our dentist will take an impression. The impression is used to create a mold or model of the tooth. This model is used to design the new crown. A porcelain crown is carefully crafted to match the natural contours and colors of your tooth, and the finish reflects light quite similarly to the natural enamel of your tooth. Once your new crown is ready, we will use a strong dental cement to secure it into position.
Now that your new crown is in place, you can ensure it gives you many years of service by taking care of it as recommended. Good brushing and flossing particularly at the border where the crown meets the gum is especially important. This keeps plaque and oral bacteria under control and reduces the risk of tooth decay and gum disease, which can result in premature crown failure. Regular checkups with your dentist is also important.
A dental crown can restore the look, function, and comfort of your smile. To learn more about restoration options, call us today to schedule your appointment with our dental professionals at any of our Hamlin Dental Group locations in the San Fernando Valley.