A tooth crown is a dental restoration that our dentists in Claremont use for restorative dentistry purposes and cosmetic reasons. We custom-design our dental crowns and then fabricate them in our on-site dental lab. This allows us to have more control over the final fit, making it more precise for our patients. We offer a range of materials for dental crowns, including zirconia for a metal-free treatment option.
One of our experienced dentists will work with you to determine the most suitable type of dental crown. We will present all treatment options and discuss expected results so that you can make an informed choice about your dental care.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a versatile dental restoration that we use in many situations, such as protecting an existing tooth after a root canal, repairing a damaged tooth, and cap a dental implant. It is a conservative treatment option that can, in many cases, prevent tooth extraction and preserve the natural tooth. The cap is shaped like a natural tooth and will cap a prepared, existing tooth to the gum line. Our crowns consist of high-quality dental porcelain that mimics the natural look and feel of your real tooth enamel.
Dental crowns are a permanent dental restoration that restores the natural structure and aesthetic of your damaged tooth. They are so versatile, that we recommend them to address a range of dental concerns.
Dental crowns can help address the following dental issues:
- Discolored tooth
- Crooked tooth
- Misshaped tooth
- Decayed tooth
- Chipped or cracked tooth
- Secure a tooth after a root canal
- Replace a missing tooth with a dental implant
Restoring a Tooth After a Root Canal With a Dental Crown
A root canal is a conservative treatment option for repairing an infected tooth. Our dentist provides the root canal procedure to remove the diseased pulp from the tooth. Most patients who receive a root canal will require a dental crown to strengthen the tooth after the removal of the pulp.
Tooth restoration after a root canal is a common dental procedure that can help restore the look and strength of the affected tooth. The most common way of restoring the tooth is by using a dental crown. It will cover the remaining part of the tooth after a root canal, which helps to protect it from further infection and damage. The crown also provides support for the remaining natural tooth structure, allowing for normal chewing and biting functions.
We make our dental crowns in-house to fit each patient’s individual needs. After the root canal procedure, we will take a digital impression of your mouth and custom-fabricate your new crown.
A Dental Crown Can Replace a Single Missing Tooth
Missing a single tooth can be a serious issue for many people, as it will affect your appearance and overall oral health. Fortunately, dental crowns are an effective option to permanently replace a single missing tooth. A dental crown is a cap-like structure that fits over the remaining part of the natural tooth to restore its size, shape, and strength.
However, the process will include using a dental implant. Dental implants are small titanium screws that our dentist surgically places into the jaw. The dental crown fits snugly on the implant post and helps support the alignment and function of your bite.
An implant-secured dental crown is the most natural option for replacing a single missing tooth. Because the implant post replaces the lost tooth root, it gives the crown a permanent place to sit. We fabricate the dental crown right in our office so that it perfectly fits in with your unique mouth.
Claremont Dental Institute handles all phases of the dental implant procedure. Our in-house dental implants provide quick, precise results. To learn more about replacing a single missing tooth using a dental crown and implant, see Single dental implant.
Replacing a Dental Crown
At every regular dental checkup, your dentist will examine your dental crown to make sure it is in good shape. There are several circumstances where you may need to have your dentist replace your dental crown.
A crown is not meant to last forever and you will eventually have to replace it due to years of wear and tear. This is especially true for those who grind their teeth or are hard on their teeth. Any type of damage that occurs to the restoration will likely mean you will have to replace it. Also, if the original crown never fits properly, we will replace it with one that fits right and does not cause discomfort or misalignment.
We can also replace an old amalgam cap that is affecting the aesthetics of your smile. A new porcelain crown can dramatically improve the appearance of your smile. The benefits of replacing your silver dental crown with a zirconia or porcelain dental crown are:
- Metal-free: does not cause discoloration along the gum line like a silver dental crown.
- Natural looking: a porcelain dental crown is made of layers of fine ceramic material that will match natural tooth enamel.
- Long lasting: a porcelain or zirconia dental crown is highly durable and stain resistant so it will last for years to come.
Zirconia Dental Crowns
Dr. Fountain and the dental care team at Claremont Dental Institute offer a biologic approach to your restorative needs. Zirconia dental crowns are a metal-free option that provides exceptional aesthetics and long-term durability.
Zirconia is a biocompatible material, meaning it is not harmful to the body. It is well-tolerated by gum tissue and is less likely to cause allergic reactions or irritation than metals. It’s exceptional durability ensures that zirconia crowns can withstand the pressures of chewing and biting for many years without cracking or breaking.
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The Dental Crown Process
Dental crowns typically take about two visits to our Claremont, CA dental office to complete. The process of getting a dental crown involves several steps, including preparation, taking impressions, fabrication, and placement. Our dentist will design and fit your restoration in-house so there are no extra costs or visits to other specialists.
Preparing the Tooth
The procedure begins by preparing your tooth that requires restoration. During the preparation step, your dentist will remove any decay or damage from the tooth. He will also shape the tooth by removing a small amount of tooth enamel to create a space for the dental crown. He will not do this if the dental crown is for a tooth that just went through a root canal procedure, or if it’s for a dental implant restoration.
Designing the Dental Crown
We design your dental crowns using imagining software and milling tools. Digital impressions help our dentist create a customized porcelain crown that will look and feel like your natural tooth. Once we have the digital impression and precise measurements of your teeth, we can show you how your tooth will look like with the new crown. The dental crown will blend in seamlessly and enhance the overall aesthetic of your smile!
Fabricating the Dental Crown
We make your dental crowns in our on-site dental lab. This allows our patients to enjoy fewer visits to our office and faster, more precise results. Our in-house dental lab allows our dentist to make subtle adjustments to your dental crown for a more personalized result.
Placing the Final Dental Restoration
After we produce your new dental crown, our dentist will fit the crown on your tooth to check its size, shape and color. You will work with our dentist to make any necessary size or aesthetic tweaks to create a tooth that meets and exceeds your expectations. We will permanently bond the crown in place only when both the patient and the dentist are happy with the result.
Dental Crown FAQs
Learn more about dental crowns by reading through answers to frequently asked questions. Our office staff is also available to take your call and answer your questions.
How do I clean a dental crown?
You can maintain and clean your dental crown just like your regular teeth. Twice daily brushing and flossing are essential for keeping the treated tooth and surrounding gum tissue healthy. Keep a healthy oral hygiene routine, as your crowns can last a very long time.
Can a dentist use a dental crown to treat tooth discoloration?
Yes. Patients who have tooth discoloration caused by trauma to their tooth, or caused by certain medications, may get a dental crown to restore the tooth. Cosmetic crowns can improve tooth discoloration by replacing the stained enamel with stain-resistant porcelain.
How long does a dental crown last?
A dental crown can last for up to 30 years with proper oral hygiene and routine visits to the dentist office. Dental crowns will seal out future decay and protect the tooth from damage because they consist of durable material that lasts a long time.
What if my tooth crown falls out?
If your dental crown falls out, find it and keep it in a safe place. Do not use your tooth because it can cause sensitivity and pain. If your crown fell out, it could mean a couple of things. The most common issue is that it may not have been attached correctly. If you’ve had it for a while and it falls out, it means it’s time to get a new one.
Schedule a Consultation for a Dental Crown in Claremont, CA
Call Claremont Dental Institute today at (909) 277-6919 to set up your dental appointment. You can also request an appointment online. If you have a damaged tooth, we can provide you with a dental crown in Claremont, CA.