A crown is a cover or “cap” our dentists can put over a tooth. The crown restores the tooth to its normal shape, size, and function. A crown can make the tooth stronger or improve the way it looks.
Dental implants refer to prosthetic devices that use titanium posts to replace damaged teeth and fill in gaps.
Dr. Keihani inserts the titanium posts directly into the jawbone to ensure that they can hold the replacement tooth. He uses titanium because it most naturally blends in with the bone rather than being identified as a foreign object and causing an infection or rejection. The metal posts ensure a stable fit for the replacement tooth without damaging neighboring teeth.
Dental implants are self-sufficient, in that they don’t depend on natural teeth for support. They’re a great alternative to dentures or bridges.
You should consider getting a dental crown if:
Before recommending them, Dr. Keihani and his team evaluate your overall health as well as your jawbone density to make sure the treatment area is strong enough to support the tooth’s location and function.
· Crowns are made from several types of materials. Metal alloys, ceramics, porcelain, porcelain fused to metal, or composite resin may be used. When a crown is made, the material often is colored to blend in with your natural teeth.
· Your dentist wants your crown to look natural and fit comfortably in your mouth. To decide which material to use for your crown, your dentist will consider many factors, such as:
There are four main styles of crown constructions. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. Before we construct your crown we will discuss the benefits and pitfalls of each type with you so that you can choose on according to your needs.
Metal crowns
Gold, platinum, and palladium are the most common metals used for constructing crowns. These are non-toxic and enduring, but their appearance is quite different from original teeth.
Porcelain fused to metal crowns (PFM)
In this form, the metals crowns have an additional thin porcelain layer fused over the top surface. These do not completely cover the metal that is present underneath and so it is mostly used for molars.
Resin
It is the most affordable crown and it has a natural appearance. However, it needs to be replaced quickly because it wears faster than the other types.
Porcelain crowns
These offer the most natural look and blend well with the rest of your teeth. They are also exceptionally strong and have the same wear rate as natural teeth. They are the most popular choice
It usually takes 2 dental visits to complete the treatment. When a crown is placed over a natural tooth, several steps are involved:
Dr. Keihani and his team prepares the tooth by removing its outer portion so the crown will fit. Any decay is also removed. If additional tooth structure is needed to support the crown, your dentist may build up the core of the tooth.
An impression is made to provide an exact model for the crown. The impression can be made from a mold or by digitally scanning the tooth.
You may get a temporary crown while you wait for the permanent crown to be ready. This usually takes less than 2 weeks. While you have a temporary crown, the tooth may be sensitive to hot and cold. Avoid chewing gum and eating sticky foods during this time.
When the new crown is ready, our dentists places it in your mouth and makes the necessary adjustments. When you and our dentists are happy with how it looks and feels, the crown is cemented into place.
