What Are Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns, often called “caps,” are custom-made restorations that cover a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. They offer a durable solution for teeth that cannot be repaired with fillings or other treatments. In addition to their functional benefits, crowns can enhance your smile’s aesthetics by improving the look of discolored or misshapen teeth.

Types of Dental Crowns

At TruSmile Family Dental, we offer a variety of crown materials to suit different needs and preferences.

Here’s a closer look at the most common types:

1. Porcelain Crowns

• Best for: Front teeth or highly visible areas.
• Why choose them? Porcelain crowns closely resemble natural teeth, offering an exceptional aesthetic match. They are a great choice if you want a seamless, natural-looking smile.
• Consideration: While beautiful, they may not be as strong as other materials for back teeth that endure heavy chewing.

2. Ceramic Crowns

• Best for: Patients with metal allergies or those prioritizing aesthetics.
• Why choose them? Ceramic crowns are biocompatible and highly natural-looking, making them a safe and attractive option.
• Consideration: They are slightly more prone to chipping compared to metal or porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns.

3. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns

• Best for: A balance between strength and aesthetics.
• Why choose them? These crowns have a metal core for durability, covered with porcelain for a natural appearance—making them suitable for both front and back teeth.
• Consideration: Over time, the metal edge may become visible near the gum line, particularly if the gums recede.

4. Metal Crowns (Gold and Base Alloys)

• Best For: Molars or teeth in the back of the mouth.
• Benefits: Metal crowns are exceptionally durable, resistant to wear, and require less removal of the natural tooth. Gold crowns, in particular, offer a combination of strength and comfort.
• Considerations: Their metallic color makes them less ideal for visible areas.

5. Zirconia Crowns

• Best For: Patients seeking durability with aesthetics.
• Benefits: Zirconia crowns are extremely strong, making them an excellent choice for teeth subjected to significant pressure. They also have a natural appearance and can be color-matched to your teeth.
• Considerations: Zirconia can sometimes feel more rigid than other materials, which may lead to wear on opposing teeth.

6. Temporary Crowns

• Best For: Short-term use while waiting for a permanent crown.
• Benefits: Temporary crowns protect the tooth and maintain its function during the fabrication of the permanent crown.
• Considerations: These are not as durable or aesthetically pleasing as permanent crowns and are only meant for short-term use.

How to Choose the Right Crown?

Selecting the right crown depends on various factors, including:

• Location of the tooth: Front teeth may require more aesthetic options, while back teeth need strength.
• Budget: Different materials come at varying price points.
• Oral health conditions: Metal-free options are better for patients with metal allergies.
• Longevity: Some materials last longer than others.

At TruSmile Family Dental, our experienced team will guide you through these considerations to find the crown that best fits your needs.

The Dental Crown Process

• Consultation and Examination: We assess the condition of your tooth and discuss your options.
• Preparation: The damaged tooth is reshaped to accommodate the crown.
• Impression: A mold of your tooth is taken to create a perfectly fitting crown.
• Temporary Crown: While the permanent crown is fabricated, a temporary crown is placed to protect your tooth.
• Crown Placement: The permanent crown is cemented in place, restoring your tooth’s function and appearance.

Why Choose TruSmile Family Dental?

• Personalized Care: We tailor treatments to meet your unique needs.
• Advanced Technology: Our modern dental techniques ensure precision and comfort.
• Expert Team: Our skilled dentists have extensive experience in restorative and cosmetic dentistry.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

If you're considering dental crowns in Milpitas, look no further than TruSmile Family Dental. Whether you need to restore a damaged tooth or enhance your smile, our team is here to help.

Call us today at (408) 719-1197 to book your consultation and take the first step towards a healthier, more beautiful smile.

Let us help you find the perfect crown to suit your needs and restore your confidence!