Different Types of Dental Crowns: Which One is Right for You?

When it comes to dental restorations, dental crowns are a popular and effective option for many of our Mira Mesa patients. But with so many different types of dental crowns available, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you.

Types of Dental Crowns

There are several different types of dental crowns used today, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Here are a few of the most common types of dental crowns you’ll see used at offices throughout Mira Mesa:

Ceramic: Ceramic crowns are made from ceramic, porcelain, and similar materials. They are a popular choice for patients who want a natural-looking restoration that blends in with all of their other teeth. They are also a good option for patients who have concerns about possible metal allergies or visible metal materials whenever they smile.

CEREC Crowns: Same-day ceramic dental crowns using CEREC 3D imaging allow us to digitally fit our patients with a restoration on the same day. Instead of two appointments for a dental crown, only one visit is needed.

Porcelain-fused-to-metal: These crowns have a metal base and are covered with porcelain. They are strong and durable, providing added reinforcement where needed.

Metal: Metal crowns are usually made from gold or another alloy and are an extremely durable type of dental crown. They are a good option for patients who need a crown over one of their back teeth, but they may not look as natural as other types of crowns.

Stainless Steel or Resin: These temporary crowns are not as durable as other types of crowns. They are used for short-term purposes while the permanent crown is being designed or on a child whose teeth are still erupting.

Do I Need a Dental Crown?

Crowns are almost always recommended when teeth are structurally weak and prone to breakage. For example, if there is an extremely large cavity, filling the tooth with a white or amalgam filling would predispose the tooth to break apart even further. Or if there is severe wear or decay, the remaining tooth structure won’t be able to support normal biting and chewing pressure. Instead, a crown is placed over and around the tooth to protect what tooth structure is left. The crown is also strong enough to withstand normal use, distributing the biting forces across the restoration so that the tooth underneath isn’t compromised. Crowns are also recommended for teeth after root canal treatment or on top of individual dental implants when you’re replacing a missing tooth.

Dental Crowns in San Diego

If you live in San Diego and need a dental crown, you’re in luck! At Scripps West Dental, our experienced team of dentists has access to advanced technology, such as CEREC. This 3D milling technology allows our dentists to create and place a dental crown in just one appointment rather than the traditional two-visit process.

At Scripps West Dental in Mira Mesa, we use in-office CEREC technology to provide our patients with same-day dentistry and attractive tooth-colored crowns. With CEREC, we can create high-quality, customized crowns that will look and function just like your natural teeth. The crown is milled here in our office from a virtual impression of your teeth; no messy impressions are needed. You can sit back and relax while the crown is designed or catch up on any of your other necessary dental services.

Cosmetic Dentist Near You

If you’re looking for a cosmetic dentist near you, Scripps West Dental in Mira Mesa is here to help. Our team of experienced dentists and dental professionals is dedicated to providing high-quality, personalized care to our patients. We use advanced technology and techniques to create beautiful, natural-looking restorations that will last for many years. Contact our office today to learn more about our same-day ceramic dental crowns or to find out which type of restoration is right for you.