Dental Crowns

Dental Crowns San Francisco

Dental crowns have come a long way since they were first introduced. Ancient civilizations used ivory, bone, animal teeth, gold, and other metals to create caps for their teeth. Today, crowns are made from a variety of materials that are both strong and natural-looking. Crowns are a great option for restoring a tooth that is damaged or decayed.

At Post Street Dental, we are specialists for anyone needing a dental crown in San Francisco. Our friendly and highly trained staff will work with you to get the best possible crown for your needs, depending on the location of the tooth and your budget. We always aim to give you the best possible results that will leave you feeling confident and happy with your smile. Come see why we are the best dentist in San Francisco, call (415) 986-4534 to schedule an appointment or complete the online booking form. 

Why a Dental Crown Is Recommended

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped “cap” placed over a tooth to cover and restore its size and strength or to make the tooth more aesthetically pleasing. 

Some reasons a dentist will recommend a crown may be to:

• To protect a weak tooth from breaking
• To restore a tooth that has already broken or is severely decayed
• To cover and support natural tooth structure on a tooth with a large filling 
• To hold a dental bridge in place
• To cover misshaped or severely discolored teeth
• To cover a dental implant

Common Types of Dental Crowns

There are many different types of dental crowns available, and the type that is right for you will depend on the location of the tooth, the position of your gum tissue, the color of adjacent teeth, your budget, and personal preference.

Porcelain Fused to Metal Crowns

Porcelain fused to metal crowns are strong and durable and can be used on any tooth in the mouth. They are made of a metal inner structure with a porcelain outer layer matched to the color of your natural teeth.

All Porcelain Crowns (Ceramic Crowns)

These types of crowns are made entirely of porcelain and are matched to your natural teeth. They are a good option for people with metal allergies and can be used on any tooth in the mouth. 

Gold Crowns

Gold crowns are made of gold alloy and other metals. They are strong and durable but are more noticeable than other types of crowns. They are usually used on the back or posterior teeth where they won’t be as visible. 

Stainless Steel Crowns

Stainless steel crowns are usually used on baby teeth or primary teeth that will eventually be replaced with permanent teeth. They are also used on adult molars that require a lot of chewing force. Stainless steel crowns are strong and durable but are not as natural-looking as other types of crowns.

Zirconia Crowns

Zirconia crowns are made of zirconium oxide, a strong white ceramic material. They are durable and natural-looking and can be used on any tooth in the mouth. 

The Dental Crown Procedure

The dental crown procedure usually takes two visits to the dentist. During the first visit, the tooth will be prepared, and an impression will be taken. Using a temporary cement, a temporary crown will be placed on the tooth. You will be given instructions on how to care for your temporary crown. Your permanent crown will be made in a dental laboratory and will be ready to be placed on your tooth during your second visit. 

During the second visit, the temporary crown will be removed, and the permanent crown will be checked for fit and color and glued into place with dental cement. Once the permanent crown is in place, you will be given instructions on how to care for it so it will last for many years. 

Aftercare

It is important to take care of your dental crown so it will last. Here are some tips on how to care for your new crown:

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss once a day.
• Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.
• Avoid chewing hard foods or ice.
• Do not use your teeth to open packages or bottles.
• Wear a mouthguard if you play sports.

Will I Need a Root Canal?

A root canal treatment may be needed if the tooth that is being crowned is infected or if the nerve of the tooth is damaged. During the root canal procedure, the nerve and pulp of the tooth are removed, and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed. A root canal procedure will be done before the dental crown procedure. Your dentist will discuss this and any questions you may have about root canals during your consultation.

What Are the Risks of Dental Crowns?

The risks associated with dental crowns are usually minor. They may include:

• Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures
• Discomfort or pain
• Difficulty chewing
• Allergic reactions to metals

If you experience any of these symptoms, please contact your dentist. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Most dental insurance plans will cover part or most of the cost of a dental crown. Please contact your insurance provider to find out how much they will cover.