Things to Know about Dental Crowns

A dental crown is a customized prosthetic cap, typically made of materials like porcelain, metal, or a combination, placed over a damaged or weakened tooth. Serving as a protective covering, dental crowns restore the tooth's strength, functionality, and appearance. This tooth-shaped cap encases the visible portion of the tooth above the gumline, supporting weakened structures, restoring teeth after root canal treatment, improving aesthetics, and acting as an anchor for dental bridges. At Bay Area Dental, the dental crowns offer a versatile solution in restorative and cosmetic dentistry, addressing various dental issues to enhance oral health and the smile's aesthetics. 

The Types of Dental Crowns 

Porcelain Crowns 

Porcelain crowns are known for their natural appearance and ability to mimic the translucency of natural teeth. They are often used for front teeth and prominent areas due to their aesthetic appeal. 

Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns 

PFM crowns combine the strength of a metal substructure with the aesthetics of porcelain. The metal provides durability, while the porcelain outer layer matches the color of adjacent teeth. 

Metal Crowns 

Metal crowns, often made of alloys containing gold, nickel, or chromium, are known for their exceptional durability and strength. They are suitable for back teeth and areas where aesthetics are less concerned. 

All-Ceramic or All-Porcelain Crowns 

All ceramic crowns are crafted entirely from ceramic materials, providing strength and aesthetic appeal. They are a popular choice for those seeking a metal-free option. 

Zirconia Crowns 

Zirconia crowns are made from a strong, durable, and biocompatible material. They offer strength and aesthetic benefits, making them suitable for various applications. 

The Advantages of Dental Crowns 

• Dental crowns in Oakland, CA, restore the shape, size, and strength of damaged or weakened teeth, protecting them from further deterioration. 
• Crowns provide a protective covering for teeth with extensive decay, preventing the need for extraction and preserving the natural tooth structure. 
• Teeth with large fillings may be at risk of fractures. Crowns offer support, reducing the likelihood of further damage and improving the longevity of the tooth. 
• Crowns enhance the appearance of teeth by covering stains, discolorations, misalignments, and other cosmetic imperfections, contributing to a more aesthetically pleasing smile. 
• Following root canal therapy, crowns are placed to protect and restore treated teeth, preventing bacterial re-entry and maintaining functionality. 
• Dental crowns are used as anchors for dental bridges, which fill gaps left by missing teeth, restoring both function and aesthetics. 
• Crowns improve bite function by restoring proper tooth alignment and preventing issues associated with malocclusion. 
• Crowns can restore and protect teeth that have experienced significant wear due to grinding or other factors. 

Aesthetic improvements provided by crowns can positively impact an individual's self-esteem and confidence, promoting better overall psychological well-being. To learn more about the benefits of dental crowns, visit Bay Area Dental at 3300 Webster Street, #907, Oakland, CA 94609, or call (510) 350-8187.