Dental Crowns

Whenever a tooth is damaged, fractured, or decayed, it becomes weaker and susceptible to further damage from bacteria. Infection and abscess are very real risks. Dental crowns can protect and restore functionality to damaged or decayed teeth, preventing further damage or decay. Dental crowns, or caps, may be used to encase the teeth entirely, or they can be used over dental implants to replace missing teeth.

If you suffer from severe tooth decay or damage, our Beverly Hills dentist will first evaluate your teeth to determine if more conservative restorations, like composite bonding or veneers, may be possible. If dental crowns are necessary, they will be created either in a laboratory or the office, depending the type of crown.

Dental crowns may be made of porcelain, metal, or porcelain-fused-to-metal. Porcelain crowns tend to be preferred since they look and act most like natural teeth. Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns tend to wear down over time allowing the metal to show through, while metal crowns are strong and functional but often considered unattractive.

Our dentist will need to take impressions of the tooth or teeth that need to be restored as well as the rest of your teeth to ensure that the crowns are the proper shape and size and fit into your mouth correctly. You will also learn more about how your teeth will be prepared for the procedure and what to expect with your new porcelain crowns.

Once your dental crowns have been placed, it is crucial that you maintain proper oral hygiene to maximize the lifespan of your restorations and protect your oral health. Twice daily brushing and daily flossing remove plaque from around the crown and prevent tooth decay and gingivitis. Biannual visits to our dentist provide cleanings and examinations to ensure excellent oral health.

To protect your new crowns, you will need to avoid chewing on hard objects that can damage your crown, including ice, pencils, or even fingernails. If you grind your teeth, talk to our Beverly Hills cosmetic dentist about wearing a night time mouth guard to keep your new porcelain crowns safe.