The royal appeal of Dental Crowns for Los Angeles Smiles

Historically, headgear called crowns was worn ceremonially by nobility, monarchs, and emperors to signify power and honor. They were made of precious metals such as gold, and adorned with jewels. Today, you may need a crown for a different purpose, and you may not want such a flashy presentation.

A dental crown, a restoration that covers all visible surfaces of a tooth, is a dental solution for several situations:

• When a large portion of the tooth is broken, compromised by decay, or can no longer secure a filling, a crown is a means to save the tooth (as opposed to extraction). It restores chewing function and the appearance of a natural tooth.
• When decay, trauma, or infection has invaded the nerve and root canal therapy is required, a crown strengthens the remaining tooth structure, protecting it from further damage.
• To complete a dental implant. An implant mimics the root of a missing or lost tooth in the jaw bone. It is topped by an artificial tooth – a crown – to fill the gap.
• In instances where a dental implant isn’t appropriate for a missing tooth, those on either side of the space may be crowned to anchor the replacement tooth on a permanent bridge.
• For a back tooth that isn’t a good candidate for a veneer, or for one with significant flaws, a dental crown may be used to improve aesthetics.

Crowns may be crafted of all porcelain. The lovely, lustrous finish of this sturdy material is ideal for teeth that show when you talk or smile, or for patients who prefer not to have metal in their dental restorations.

Crowns with a metal core covered by porcelain (porcelain-fused-to-metal or PFM) are strong enough for the bite pressure applied to back teeth when you chew, and still look very natural.

Gold, the original noble metal, is strong and durable. It also mimics the natural properties of tooth enamel, so it is kind to the opposing dentition. However, most patients prefer a natural-looking crown over the bling of a gold tooth.

Dr. Khorsandi and the friendly, professional staff at Zen Dental will treat you like royalty, happy to discuss your concerns and recommend a dental restoration that is right for your situation.






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