Dental Crowns Specialist Q&A

On average, dental crowns last between 15 and 30 years. The longevity of your dental crown will be influenced by your dietary habits and oral hygiene practices, as well as the type of crown you have. The material that is used to create your dental crown plays a significant role in its longevity. For example, while many people opt for porcelain crowns because they are aesthetically pleasing, metal crowns are a longer-lasting option.

Furthermore, eating sticky or hard foods regularly often results in increased wear and tear on the dental crown. This can lead to needing a replacement prematurely. Popcorn, nuts, caramel, ice, and similar foods should be avoided. A commitment to a tooth-friendly diet will ensure that unnecessary stress on your dental crown is minimized.

Taking good care of your oral health will also contribute to how long your dental crown lasts. Brushing and flossing, combined with routine professional cleanings, create a robust defense against plaque and bacteria buildup. This will ensure your crown remains stain-free as well as enhance its longevity. In addition, by seeing a dental professional regularly, you can have the condition of your crown assessed, so issues can be addressed before they intensify.

There are various types of dental crowns to choose from. The three most popular options are:

• All-porcelain crowns – These crowns are popular due to their aesthetic appeal. All-porcelain crowns are made of ceramic materials and mimic the color and translucency of teeth, making them perfect for treating teeth near the front of the mouth.
• Metal crowns – Metal crowns can be created from alloys such as nickel, palladium, or gold. These crowns are durable but do not match the color of the teeth, making them a great choice for less visible teeth.
• Porcelain Fused to Metal (PFM) crowns – PFM crowns hold the advantageous characteristics of both porcelain and metal crowns. The metal foundation provides strength and support, while the top, porcelain layer provides a natural appearance.

In summary, there are a variety of options available for those who need a dental crown. During your consultation, the specialist can help you make an informed choice about which type of crown to go with.

To place a dental crown, at least one-quarter of the tooth structure must remain after the decay and damage are removed and the tooth is shaped to accommodate the crown. If enough of the tooth is left, dental professionals can secure a crown to restore the appearance and function of the tooth.

At times, there is not enough of the tooth structure left to successfully secure the crown without a high risk of future complications. In these cases, there are various approaches available to restore the function of the tooth and the appearance of your smile. The dental professional can use composite resin, place a post-and-core foundation, or replace the natural tooth with an implant. To find out which option is best in your case, schedule a consultation with us. The dentist will assess your tooth’s condition and recommend the most optimal route for your treatment.

Yes, you can get a crown without undergoing a root canal, as the two are separate procedures. A dental crown can be used to improve the appearance of stained teeth or to repair minor chips and cracks that haven’t resulted in infection inside the tooth.

Additionally, crowns are recommended after a root canal to strengthen the tooth and enhance its appearance. In some cases, the crown can be placed on the same day as the root canal, while in others, the crown is placed at a separate appointment. Dental crowns are also used to support dental bridges and cover dental implants.

Overall, there are various instances in which dental crowns are used to restore the function and appearance of the teeth. If you have questions about dental crowns and the options available, our team is here to provide clarity. We are conveniently located at 4015 Mission Oaks Blvd, Suite A Camarillo, CA 93012. For more information, contact us or request an appointment online. We serve patients from Camarillo CA, Somis CA, Santa Rosa Valley CA, Oxnard CA, Hidden Valley CA, Thousand Oaks CA, and surrounding areas.