We make Dental Crowns in San Francisco easy and convenient

Dental crowns are used in a variety of treatments today. As dentists, our first priority is to help patients avoid decay and to conserve the tooth’s natural structure if treatment is needed. We attempt to catch decay in its earliest stages so that treatment may be limited to a simple filling. There are times, however, when damage or decay has reached a point where a filling can no longer adequately repair the tooth to full strength and function and protect it from further damage. In such cases, a crown may be the best restorative treatment.

A dental crown is essentially a cap that completely covers a damaged or weakened tooth. In the past, crowns were only made of gold alloys or other metals and were quite visible. Today we can produce crowns that don’t show metal when you laugh, smile, or speak. Crowns can be made from either plastic resin, all-ceramics, or porcelain fused to metal. Despite these aesthetic options, gold is still a highly recommended material for its biocompatibility, durability, and proven long-term success. Depending on the location of the tooth to be crowned, Dr. Arellano will recommend the best type of crown if strength is needed to resist a strong bite or if high aesthetics are required for a more visible tooth.

The process of placing a crown on a damaged tooth is quite simple requiring just two visits. The damaged portion of the tooth is removed leaving as much of the natural structure as possible. If large areas of the tooth are missing, the tooth may need to be built up to help support the crown. Then an impression is taken and two crowns are made. One crown is temporary and is worn while the final crown is precisely made at the lab. When the final crown is completed, the temporary crown with any remaining cement is removed. The final crown is then assessed for proper fit and color and then cemented into place.

Crowns are ideal when damage or decay results in a tooth took weak to be restored with just a filling or to replace large old silver mercury fillings. A crown is also used to restore a tooth following root canal therapy, in a bridge to replace a missing tooth, or with an implant.

In Dr. Arellano’s capable hands, a dental crown is an easy, convenient way to restore function and attractiveness to your smile.