Dental crowns, also known as tooth caps or dental caps, are versatile restorative tools that can transform your smile. At Riviera Smiles in Santa Barbara, we offer high-quality dental crowns to help you regain both the function and aesthetics of your teeth.
What Are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that fits over a damaged or weakened tooth. It serves multiple purposes:
1. Restoring Functionality
Crowns are used to restore the shape, size, and strength of a tooth that has been compromised due to decay, injury, or other dental issues.
2. Enhancing Aesthetics
Crowns can significantly improve the appearance of a tooth, covering discolorations, misalignments, and other cosmetic imperfections.
3. Protecting Fragile Teeth
They act as a protective shield for teeth that have undergone root canal treatment or have large fillings.
Types of Dental Crowns
There are several types of dental crowns, including:
1. Porcelain Crowns
Porcelain crowns are known for their natural appearance and are an excellent choice for front teeth due to their ability to mimic the look of natural teeth.
2. Metal Crowns
Metal crowns, often made of gold or silver alloys, are incredibly durable and suitable for back teeth.
3. Ceramic Crowns
Ceramic crowns combine aesthetics and strength, making them a popular choice for many patients.
The Crown Placement Process
Placing a dental crown typically involves two appointments. During the first visit, Dr. Ana Martinez will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping it to accommodate the crown. Impressions are taken to create a custom crown that perfectly matches your natural teeth. The second visit involves the placement of the crown, ensuring a comfortable fit and a beautiful smile.
Don’t let damaged or unsightly teeth hold you back from smiling with confidence. Contact Riviera Smiles today to schedule a consultation and discover how dental crowns can restore your smile’s majesty.