Dental Crowns

 A dental crown, which is also referred to as a cap, is a custom-made covering that encases the entire tooth surface, restoring it to its original shape and size. Crowns protect and strengthen teeth that cannot be restored with fillings or other types of restorations. If you have a decaying or broken tooth, it’s best to simply take care of the dental concern as soon as possible, and make an appointment to see Dr. Picard, one of Los Angele’s leading dental professionals immediately. Below you will find important information about dental crowns, and how Dr. Picard and his friendly staff can help you to have a brilliant, pain free smile.

 What dental issues can dental crowns treat?

There are a number of dental problems that can be treated using dental crowns. They are ideal for teeth that have large, fractured or broken fillings and also for those that are badly decayed. Although there are a few types of crowns, porcelain (tooth-colored) crowns are the most popular, since they match the appearance and shape of teeth. Dental crowns also serve an aesthetic purpose, given that they can be used to hide a dental implant and/or teeth that may be discolored or unevenly spaced. Dental crowns can be utilized to provide support for teeth, in instances where a portion of the tooth’s structure has been lost due to trauma or decay.

What steps are involved in dental crown treatments?

Before your dentist can treat the compromised tooth with a dental crown, they will first take x-rays and examine your teeth to assess the extent of damage or decay. If they should find that the tooth decay is too extensive, then they may choose to perform a root canal or build upon the existing tooth structure by utilizing filling materials. Your dentist will then numb the tooth and its surrounding area before preparing the tooth for the dental crown. This process usually involves filing down the tooth’s chewing surface. Your dentist will then take an impression of your mouth, which is sent to a lab in order to make the dental crown. A temporary dental crown in place will be put in place while the crown is being created, so that any further damage can be avoided. At your second visit your dentist will put the permanent crown in place.

What is a temporary dental crown?

While your temporary dental crown is in place, it’s recommended that you avoid sticky foods, like gum or candy, and particularly hard foods. You should also avoid using the side of your mouth where the temporary crown has been placed as much as possible, and will want to use extreme care when flossing your teeth.

If your smile can benefit from dental crowns, call or email our Los Angeles dental offices to schedule your first appointment with Dr. Larry Picard DDS. He and his friendly, trained staff can help you to get that smile that makes a great first impression and help to improve your oral health.