Cosmetic Dentistry - Dental Crowns

For teeth that are badly damaged, dental crowns can be an effective treatment option. The dental crown procedure utilizes tooth-shaped coverings made of ceramic or porcelain to restore strength and eliminate discomfort. In addition, dental crowns may be used to anchor a dental bridge or to cap a dental implant post.

Types of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are made of metal, ceramic, or porcelain fused to metal. The type of crown utilized during your dental crown procedure will depend on your unique needs and goals, as well as the recommendation of Dr. Gray.

Metal Crowns
Although their metallic color makes them a poor choice for highly visible teeth, dental crowns made of metal can be an ideal option for repairing decayed or damaged back teeth. They are extremely durable and can be applied with less removal of the natural tooth than all porcelain or ceramic crowns. Metal crowns may consist of various materials, including gold alloy, palladium, nickel alloy, or chromium alloy.

All Ceramic Crowns
All ceramic crowns may be made of porcelain, resins, or dental ceramic materials. They create an extremely natural-looking appearance and are typically used on front teeth. The tooth-colored ceramic material is translucent, like the enamel of your natural teeth, and size and shade can be carefully matched to complement the rest of your smile.

Porcelain Crowns
Dental crowns made of porcelain fused to metal are stronger than all-ceramic versions and more aesthetically pleasing than those made of metal. However, their metal shell gives porcelain fused to metal crowns an opaque appearance. Because they lack the reflective quality of natural teeth, porcelain fused to metal crowns are not as discreet as all ceramic crowns.

The Dental Crown Procedure
Typically, the dental crown procedure is completed in two stages. During the first stage, Dr. Gray removes portions of your natural tooth’s structure to accommodate the dental crown. Surrounding teeth may also be prepared in this way. An impression is made and sent to the lab, where your dental crown is created in about two weeks. A temporary crown will be in place between visits to ensure the most natural look and feel. When you return to Dr. Gray's San Diego area office, the temporary crown is removed and your new, custom dental crown is securely bonded in place.

What is the Average Cost of Dental Crowns?
The average cost of a dental crown varies. Often, the type of dental crown plays the most significant role in determining its price. For example, all ceramic or porcelain crowns tend to cost more than other types of dental crowns because they are more time-consuming and require greater skill to be applied correctly.

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