Dental Crowns in Irvine, CA
If you’ve had any sort of serious dental issue that regular fillings do not fix, it may be time to get dental crowns. In Irvine, CA, dentists may suggest crowns for a variety of concerns from protecting a weak tooth to covering a dental implant. Find more information on dental crowns and what they do below.
What are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a cap that is secured to a compromised tooth to protect or fix it. They can be made from a variety of materials and the type depends on the location in the mouth, cost, and durability. Crowns on the back molars may be a silver or gold color as you can hardly see them from a regular distance, whereas crowns on the front teeth can be specially designed to look like a natural tooth.
Dental Crown Uses
There are a number of reasons why one may need a dental crown. These include:
- Protecting a tooth from further decay
- Holding together a cracked tooth
- Restoring a worn-down tooth
- Concealing a tooth with a large filling
- Keeping a dental bridge in place
- Fixing discolored teeth
- Covering a dental implant
- Protecting a tooth that’s had a root canal
Types of Dental Crowns
Traditional
A traditional crown covers the entire tooth. It is typically used when the tooth is so compromised that an onlay will not cover the amount of decay present. Traditional crowns can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years, depending on type and maintenance.
Onlay or ¾ Crown
An onlay or ¾ crown only covers part of the tooth, rather than the whole thing. This is optimal for less severe cases where the tooth structure is still solid. Onlays can last up to 10 years if properly maintained.
Dental Crown Materials
Metal
Metal crowns are often preferable as they are the most durable and long-lasting of all the materials. However, they are not easily hidden as the metal color of the gold, palladium, nickel, or chromium used will stick out from the rest of the teeth. These are best used for teeth in the back of the mouth.
Porcelain
Porcelain crowns are less visible, as they can be color matched to blend in with your teeth. They’re also preferable for people with nickel allergies or sensitivities. They are the best choice for front teeth due to their camouflaging effect, but they are less durable and can wear down the surrounding teeth.
Porcelain-fused
This option gives you the durability of metal crowns, with the transparency of porcelain. They are still not quite a durable or long-lasting as full metal but appear much more seamless in the mouth.
Pressed Ceramic
These crowns are capped with porcelain for a camouflaging effect, but the hard inner core of pressed ceramic crowns help them be more durable than all-porcelain ones.
Resin
Resin crowns are the most budget-friendly form of dental crown. They do wear down over time and will most likely have to be repaired or replaced sooner than the other material options.
Final Thoughts
Dental crowns are vital in saving your tooth’s integrity and preventing further dental damage. If you’re in need of a crown in the Irvine, CA area, consult a dentist to get their expert opinion on the best material, type, and treatment plan for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a dental crown?
A dental crown is a custom cap placed over a damaged, cracked, or decayed tooth to restore its shape, strength, and appearance. At Irvine Family & Implant Dentistry, Dr. Jeevan Ghatnekar uses crowns to protect weakened teeth and complete implant and root canal treatments.
When do I need a dental crown?
You may need a dental crown if you have a large filling, a cracked or broken tooth, a tooth weakened by a root canal, or a dental implant that needs a top. Dr. Ghatnekar will recommend a crown in Irvine when a tooth needs more support than a filling can provide.
How long do dental crowns last?
Dental crowns typically last 10 to 15 years or longer with good oral hygiene and regular dental visits. The Irvine team uses durable, natural-looking materials matched to your surrounding teeth.
Does getting a crown hurt?
Getting a dental crown is not painful because the tooth is numbed with local anesthesia during preparation. Patients at the Irvine office may feel mild sensitivity afterward, which usually fades within a few days.
How many visits does a dental crown take?
A traditional dental crown usually takes two visits — one to prepare the tooth and take impressions, and one to place the final crown. Dr. Ghatnekar reviews your specific timeline during your Irvine appointment.
How do I care for a dental crown?
Care for a dental crown by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and avoiding chewing hard objects like ice. Regular checkups at Irvine Family & Implant Dentistry help keep the crown and the tooth beneath it healthy.