Dental Crowns (Prosthodontics) in Los Angeles, CA

At Carlston Dental Group, a dental crown is a tooth-shaped “cap” placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength and improve its appearance. Our dentist may recommend a crown when your tooth is damaged, decayed, or suffering from a condition that makes treatment with a filling ineffective. The crown is custom matched to blend in with your other teeth to create a seamless look. It functions just like a natural tooth and is cared for similarly.

Several different types of materials can be used to make crowns. The most common types are made from porcelain and ceramic, which match the shade of your natural teeth and are durable enough to withstand the force of chewing your food. Other types can be made of metal alloys or even gold. These materials are best suited for back teeth because they can more easily withstand the forces of grinding food. 

The Process for Getting Dental Crowns

A crown is a porcelain cap that covers the tooth entirely, restoring its original shape, size, and function. It can be placed on top of a broken tooth or on a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy to protect the remaining part of the natural tooth from further decay.

During your first visit, your dentist will administer local anesthesia to numb the area around your tooth. Then they will carefully remove a portion of the enamel to make room for the restoration. An impression will be made of your teeth and sent to a lab where your custom restoration will be fabricated. Your dentist will place a temporary crown on your tooth to safeguard it until your next appointment. The temporary crown will be removed, and the permanent crown will be put on the second visit. 

The Benefits of Dental Crowns

A crown gives the tooth improved strength, shape, and size. While crowns can be used for various reasons, they are most commonly placed after the dentist has prepared the tooth for a crown following a large cavity or filling. Some dentists may also use crowns when the patient needs protection for a cracked or broken tooth. If you are missing a tooth and want a replacement option, your dentist may suggest a dental implant with a crown. The crown acts as a false tooth and gives your implant cosmetic appeal. Generally, you can expect the results of having a crown to last between five and fifteen years. However, this time frame depends on the patient’s oral health and habits.