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Everything You Need to Know About Types of Dental Crowns

April 5, 2024
Everything You Need to Know About Types of Dental Crowns

Do you have damaged, decayed, or missing teeth that affect your daily activities and confidence? Do you wish you could have a brand-new, beautiful smile that improves your personality and your quality of life? If so, you may benefit from dental crowns, a multi-functional dental treatment that can restore, repair, and enhance your teeth.

Dental crowns are custom-made caps that cover the entire visible part of a tooth, restoring its shape, size, color, and function. Dental crowns near you can be used for various purposes, such as protecting weak or broken teeth, covering large cavities or root canal-treated teeth, replacing missing teeth with implants or bridges, correcting misaligned or misshapen teeth, and improving the appearance of stained or discolored teeth.

At Mint Smiles Dentist, we offer high-quality dental crowns so that you achieve the smile of your dreams. This guide will explain everything you need to know about dental crowns, including the types, steps, and aftercare of this cosmetic dental procedure.

Types of Dental Crowns

There are different types of dental crowns in Rancho Cucamonga, depending on the material, procedure, suitability, and needs of each patient. Some of the most common types of dental crowns are:

  • All-porcelain crowns: These are made completely of ceramic materials that resemble the natural appearance of teeth. They are the most popular type of crowns, especially for the front teeth, as they provide excellent aesthetics and biocompatibility. There are different types of all-porcelain crowns, such as zirconia, glass ceramic, and hybrid ceramic, each with advantages and disadvantages regarding strength, durability, and translucency.
  • Resin crowns: These are plastic crowns used as temporary crowns while waiting for permanent ones. They are not strong or durable and can wear down or fracture easily.
  • PFM crowns have a metal base and a porcelain layer on top. They combine the strength of metal with the aesthetics of porcelain, but they may also have some drawbacks, such as a dark line at the gum margin, metal allergies, or porcelain chipping.
  • Full metal crowns: These are made entirely of metal, such as gold or palladium. They are very strong and resistant to wear and tear, but they are also noticeable and unattractive. They are usually used for the back teeth that are not visible when smiling.
  • Stainless steel crowns: These are pre-made stainless steel crowns used for children’s teeth. They are temporary and fall off naturally when the permanent teeth come in.

Steps of Dental Crowns

The process of getting dental crowns can vary depending on the type of crown, but it usually involves the following steps:

  • First, you’ll meet with our dentist. They’ll check your teeth and gums, take some X-rays, and discuss what you want. You’ll also pick out the type and color of your crowns with help from the dentist.
  • Then, the dentist will prepare your teeth to get crowns. This means removing a bit of the enamel and shaping the teeth so the crowns will fit. You’ll also receive some numbing medicine to ensure you don’t feel any pain. The dentist will then make molds or digital pictures of your teeth and send them to a lab, where your crowns will be made. In the meantime, you’ll wear temporary crowns.
  • Lastly, when your crowns are done, you’ll come back to get them put on your teeth. The dentist near you will ensure they fit right and look good and may make some adjustments. You’ll also learn how to take care of your crowns and teeth.

Aftercare of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns can last many years if you care for them and your teeth. Here are some tips on how to maintain your dental crowns and your oral health:

  • Brush your teeth carefully, at least twice daily, while using a soft-bristled toothbrush and effective fluoride toothpaste.
  • Floss your teeth daily, careful not to pull or tug on the crowns.
  • Rinse your mouth thoroughly using an antiseptic mouthwash or water after eating or drinking.
  • Avoid biting or chewing on hard, sticky, or crunchy foods that can damage your crowns or teeth.
  • Avoid smoking or drinking coffee, tea, wine, or other staining substances that can discolor your crowns or your teeth.
  • Visit our dentist at regular intervals for check-ups and cleanings, and report any problems or concerns with your crowns or teeth.

If you want dental crowns or any other dental service, you should contact Mint Smiles Dentist in Rancho Cucamonga. We are a family-friendly dental practice offering a huge number of dental services, including dental crowns, implants, veneers, and more. We also offer financing options and dental savings plans to make dental care services more affordable and widely reachable.

To book your appointment or to learn more about our services, please contact us today. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you smile with confidence!

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