San Francisco dentist compares a metal crown to a tooth colored crown
When a tooth is badly damaged – either from a cavity that went too long before it was identified and addressed or from trauma to the mouth – a dentist may decide that the best way to save the tooth is to fit it with a crown. A dental crown, which is also commonly referred to as a dental cap, is a restoration that is durably cemented onto the tooth. Not only does the crown cover the damage, it also provides strength and can improve alignment and appearance.
The crown procedure is straightforward and typically requires only two trips to the dentist. During the first visit the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing a small amount of the tooth’s enamel to ensure that the crown fits properly. Next, a mold will be taken and sent to a dental laboratory to create the crown. When the crown is complete, the patient will return to the dentist to have it placed.
There are several types of dental crowns available, each with their own advantages. Dr. Leo Arellano helps his patients in San Francisco understand the differences between the types of dental crowns.
- Metal crowns – A crown made of metal is very durable and resistant to corrosion. It is also the thinnest crown available, which means that the dentist can leave more of the tooth intact. In addition to being durable the metal crown is also gentle on the opposing teeth. However, these advantages are offset for some patients by the color of the crown which is more noticeable than other options.
- Ceramic and porcelain crowns – Crowns that are created from ceramic-based materials can be used alone or can be fused to metal. Perhaps the biggest advantage of these crowns is that they can be created to be an exact match in shade to the patient’s natural teeth. However, they are not quite as durable as metal crowns and may chip or break just like your natural teeth. Porcelain crowns are also more likely to wear down the opposing teeth.
Crowns are an effective solution to many dental problems. They can help patients avoid needing to have a tooth extracted and can provide relief from pain and sensitivity. If you have questions about dental crowns, call the office of Dr. Leo Arellano General & Cosmetic Dentistry today.
