Dental Crowns in Chico, CA

Dental crowns are a versatile solution for restoring and enhancing your smile. Whether you need to reinforce a damaged tooth, cover a dental implant, or replace an outdated restoration, crowns offer a durable and natural-looking option. With various types available, each tailored to different needs, understanding the procedure and benefits of dental crowns can help you make an informed decision about your oral health. Dr. Ashley Harrison is a trusted dental crown specialist, and our team is here to guide you through every step of the process.

a rendering of a bridge being placed over damaged teeth

Crowning or Capping a Tooth

A dental crown is a custom-made cap placed over a damaged, decayed, or weakened tooth to restore its function, shape, and appearance. Crowns are also used to cover a dental implant or to hold a dental bridge in place. Depending on the material, crowns can last for many years, offering a long-term solution to dental issues.

Dental crowns are recommended for:

Protecting a weak tooth from breaking.
Restoring a broken or worn-down tooth.
Covering a tooth after a root canal.
Replacing a large filling when there isn’t enough natural tooth remaining.
Improving the appearance of misshapen or discolored teeth.

Types of Dental Crowns

There are several types of dental crowns available, each suited to specific needs. Our dentist may recommend the most suitable option based on your dental condition and aesthetic preferences. There are several types of dental crowns available, each suited to specific needs. We will recommend a crown on your dental condition and aesthetic preferences.

Metal Dental Crowns

Made from alloys containing gold, palladium, or other metals, these crowns are highly durable and can withstand significant chewing forces. However, they are less aesthetically pleasing due to their metallic color.

Porcelain Dental Crowns

Porcelain crowns are popular for their natural appearance, making them ideal for front teeth. They are more fragile than metal crowns but offer excellent aesthetics. Porcelain is often chosen for patients who prioritize a seamless blend with their natural teeth.

Ceramic Dental Crowns

Ceramic crowns are made from tooth-colored materials and are a great choice for patients with metal allergies. They provide a balance between durability and aesthetics. Ceramic crowns are especially popular for restoring visible teeth due to their lifelike appearance.

Zirconia Crowns

Zirconia crowns offer exceptional strength and durability. They are resistant to chipping and cracking, making them a preferred choice for patients who need crowns on molars or opposing teeth that endure heavy biting forces. Zirconia crowns blend in well with one’s own natural color of their teeth.

Temporary Dental Crowns

Temporary crowns, or resin crowns, are used to protect a tooth while waiting for a permanent crown. These are less durable than their permanent counterparts. Temporary crowns provide essential protection during the interim period.

Dental Crown Procedure: What to Expect

The dental crown procedure typically involves one visit to our office. Here’s what you can expect:

During the visit, the dentist will:

1. Examine and prepare the tooth, which may involve removing decay or reshaping the tooth. This step ensures the crown will fit properly.

2. Take a digital scan or impression to create a custom crown. The digital scan provides a precise blueprint for crafting the crown.

3. Place the crown, which is fitted and adjusted for comfort. Once satisfied with the fit, your dentist will cement the crown, restoring your tooth’s function and appearance. Properly cementing the crown ensures a secure and long-lasting fit.

If you’re getting crowns to enhance the appearance of your teeth, please note this procedure typically requires two visits to our office. During the first visit, we prepare your teeth, take impressions, and create custom temporary crowns. On the second visit, we place your final crowns, ensuring they achieve your desired aesthetic. This two-step process allows us to tailor your new smile to perfection.

Dental Crowns for Specific Needs

Dental Crowns for Front Teeth: Front teeth crowns prioritize aesthetics and are often made from porcelain or ceramic for a natural look. These materials mimic the translucency of natural teeth, providing a seamless appearance.
Dental Crowns for Broken Teeth: A crown can restore a tooth’s structure and prevent further damage. Crowns for broken teeth are designed to withstand daily use while maintaining the tooth’s natural appearance.
Pediatric Dental Crowns: For children, stainless steel crowns are commonly used to protect baby teeth from decay or damage. These crowns are durable and provide a cost-effective solution for young patients.
Dental Implant Crowns: Crowns can cover a dental implant, providing a natural appearance and full functionality. Implant crowns are custom-designed to match the color and shape of surrounding teeth, ensuring a harmonious smile.

Comparing Dental Options: Alternatives to Dental Crowns

Dental Cap vs. Crown

While the terms are often used interchangeably, a dental cap is an older term for a crown. Both serve the same purpose of protecting and restoring a tooth.

Dental Implant vs. Crown

Dental implants replace the entire tooth structure, including the root, while crowns only cover the visible portion of a natural tooth. Implants are ideal for missing teeth, whereas crowns are better for damaged teeth.

Dental Crown vs. Veneer

Veneers are thinner and only cover the front surface of a tooth, while crowns encase the entire tooth. Veneers are typically used for cosmetic purposes, while crowns offer functional and structural support.

Dental Crown vs. Filling

Fillings repair small areas of decay, but crowns are necessary when a tooth is significantly damaged or weakened. Crowns provide more comprehensive coverage and durability.

Addressing Common Concerns

Pain After Dental Crown

Experiencing pain after a dental crown procedure is not uncommon and often resolves within a few days. This discomfort can be due to the dental crown prep process, where the tooth is reshaped or treated to accommodate the crown. If the pain persists, it may indicate issues such as irritation to the surrounding gums or sensitivity in the opposing teeth or bite. At Ashley Harrison DDS, we take every measure to ensure your comfort and provide personalized care to address any concerns promptly.

Disadvantages of Dental Crowns

While dental crowns offer many benefits, they also have potential downsides. These include potential sensitivity, the possibility of needing a dental crown replacement over time, and the cost of the procedure. Additionally, pain after a dental crown is not uncommon but is usually temporary.

Ceramic vs. Porcelain Dental Crowns

When deciding between ceramic and porcelain crowns, consider factors like aesthetics, durability, and cost. Ceramic crowns are often preferred for their natural appearance and compatibility with metal allergies, while porcelain crowns are ideal for highly visible teeth.

FAQ

How Much Do Dental Crowns Cost?

The cost of dental crowns varies depending on the material and complexity of the procedure. Contact Ashley Harrison DDS for a personalized estimate.

How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

With proper care, crowns can last 10-15 years or longer, depending on the material, diet, and oral hygiene. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices can extend the lifespan of your crown.

How Long Does a Dental Crown Take?

The process usually takes one visit. Advances in technology, such as digital scans, have streamlined the crown-making process. With metal crowns, the process usually takes two visits, over 1-2 weeks.

What Are Dental Crowns Made Of?

Crowns can be made from materials like metal, porcelain, ceramic, zirconia, and resin. Depending on the material chosen, the crown will offer varying levels of durability and aesthetics.

What to Do When a Dental Crown Falls Out?

If your crown falls out, contact our office immediately. In the meantime, keep the crown and avoid chewing on the affected side. Rinse your mouth with warm water and use dental cement from a pharmacy if necessary to temporarily reattach the crown. If the crown comes off while flossing or eating, it indicates the crown was failing. Flossing, eating, or brushing alone is not the cause of the crown failing.