Everything to Know About Dental Crowns
When teeth are damaged, decayed, or weakened, a dental crown can provide lasting protection and restore your smile’s strength and appearance. Whether you’ve chipped a tooth in an accident or need to rebuild a tooth after a root canal, dental crowns offer a trusted and effective solution.
At Beckstead Dental Group, we provide custom dental crowns Palo Alto patients can count on. If you’re wondering whether a crown is the right choice for your dental issue, this guide will help you understand what dental crowns are, how they work, and what to expect from treatment.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made restoration that covers the entire visible portion of a tooth. It is often referred to as a “cap” because it fits snugly over the top of the natural tooth, mimicking its shape, size, and color. The purpose of a crown is to strengthen a weakened tooth, protect it from further damage, and restore its normal function and appearance. Dental crowns can be made from several materials, including:
- Porcelain or ceramic
- Porcelain fused to metal
- Gold alloys
- Base metal alloys
- Zirconia
Your dentist will help you determine the best material based on your needs, location of the tooth, and aesthetic preferences.
When Are Dental Crowns Needed?
Dental crowns serve both restorative and cosmetic purposes. They may be recommended for any of the following situations:
- A large cavity that cannot be restored with a standard filling
- A cracked, chipped, or broken tooth
- After a root canal to protect the weakened tooth
- To restore a tooth with excessive wear or erosion
- To support a dental bridge
- To cover a discolored or misshapen tooth
- To complete a dental implant
Crowns help preserve the natural tooth structure whenever possible and restore full bite function so you can chew and speak comfortably.
The Process of Getting a Dental Crown
Getting a dental crown usually takes two appointments. At Beckstead Dental Group, we take care to make the process as efficient and comfortable as possible.
First Appointment: Preparation and Impression
During the first visit, your dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping it to make room for the crown. Next, we take an impression of your tooth using digital or physical molds. This impression is sent to a dental lab, where your custom crown will be fabricated.
While your permanent crown is being made, we will place a temporary crown to protect the tooth and maintain your appearance.
Second Appointment: Placement
Once your permanent crown is ready, you’ll return to our office for placement. The temporary crown is removed, and the new crown is carefully checked for fit and color. If everything looks and feels right, the crown is bonded into place using dental cement.
Benefits of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns offer several key benefits, including:
- Durability: Crowns are designed to withstand daily chewing forces and can last for many years with proper care.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Modern materials like porcelain closely match the color and translucency of natural teeth.
- Protection: Crowns shield weakened teeth from further damage, preventing the need for extractions or more invasive treatments.
- Comfort and Function: A well-fitted crown restores your bite and helps you eat and speak without discomfort.
Caring for Your Dental Crowns
Crowns do not require any special maintenance beyond good oral hygiene habits. To keep your crowns in great shape, be sure to:
- Brush and floss daily
- Avoid chewing hard foods or objects like ice or pens
- Visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings
- Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth at night
Although crowns are highly durable, they can still become loose or damaged over time. If you experience any discomfort or notice changes, contact your dentist promptly.
Are Crowns Right for You?
Dental crowns are versatile and can treat a variety of dental problems, but they are not the only option available. In some cases, a filling, onlay, or inlay may be a more conservative choice. During your consultation, your dentist will examine your teeth and discuss the best options for your situation.
Why Patients Choose Beckstead Dental Group
Our team provides custom dental crowns Palo Alto patients trust for both restorative and cosmetic results. With modern materials and advanced techniques, we ensure crowns that are long-lasting, functional, and aesthetically pleasing. We are committed to patient comfort and offer thorough consultations to help you understand your treatment choices. Whether you need a single crown or are exploring full-mouth restoration, we’re here to support your journey to better oral health.
Restore Strength and Beauty to Your Smile
If you have a damaged or weakened tooth, a dental crown may be the ideal solution. Our skilled team at Beckstead Dental Group can help you restore your smile and confidence with personalized care. Schedule your appointment today with a trusted Palo Alto dentist and take the first step toward a stronger, healthier smile.