A dental crown, also known as a cap, is a tooth-shaped cover that your cosmetic dentist cements over a damaged or decayed tooth. It restores the tooth’s natural size, shape, and function. A crown can also be used to cover discolored teeth that don’t respond well to whitening. It can be made of porcelain fused to metal, resin, or gold, with the latter used most often for molars since they’re designed to withstand biting pressure.
In addition to restoring the health of your mouth, crowns can also give you back your confidence. According to one study, about a quarter of adults hide their smile because they’re embarrassed by their teeth and gums. Crowns can help you show your pearly whites without worrying about stains or chips. And, since they are so durable and look just like your natural teeth, you’ll care for them the same way that you do your own chompers.
The cost of a crown can vary depending on your dentist and the material you choose. For example, ceramic crowns are typically more expensive than metallic ones. But, they’re also more attractive and require less preparation of the natural tooth. The price of a dental crown will also depend on whether you’re getting it from an in-network or out-of-network dentist. In-network dentists are more likely to be cheaper because they’re tied to your insurance company.
If you need a crown, your dentist will first prepare the tooth by removing some of its natural enamel. This is done under local anesthesia to make sure you don’t feel any pain or discomfort. They’ll then take a copy of the tooth’s shape, which is called an impression. This can be done using a physical mold that’s pressed into the tooth or by scanning it with a digital scanner. Either way, the result is an exact replica of your tooth that will serve as a base for your new crown.
After the tooth has been prepared and the impression taken, your dentist will bond your crown to the natural tooth with a resin composite. Then, they’ll polish the surface for a smooth finish. Finally, they’ll place the finished crown in your mouth and make sure it fits well. A crown will protect your damaged tooth and prevent it from breaking or falling out, which could cause serious problems down the line such as jawbone atrophy and other teeth shifting. It will also keep you from needing more invasive — and costly — dental procedures such as bone grafts or dental implants. So, if you have a damaged or discolored tooth, schedule an appointment with your cosmetic dentist in Torrance to see if a crown is right for you. The result will be a beautiful, confident smile that will have you strutting down life’s runway like a model. Just be sure to brush and floss regularly and visit the best dentist Torrance, CA for regular cleanings. That way, you can maintain your regal smile for years to come.