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Restoring Strength and Beauty with Dental Crowns
Dental crowns, sometimes called “caps,” are custom restorations designed to protect and strengthen teeth that have been weakened by decay, fracture, or large fillings. They also play an important role in improving appearance, restoring shape, and preventing further damage. A crown covers the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gum line, providing renewed structure and function that looks and feels natural.
When a Dental Crown May Be Needed
At Steelman DDS, Dr. Steven Streelman uses advanced digital imaging and precision materials to design crowns that blend seamlessly with your surrounding teeth. Whether you are replacing an old crown, restoring a cracked or worn tooth, or finishing an implant restoration, your crown will be carefully crafted to deliver long-term comfort, strength, and esthetics.
Dental crowns are often recommended when:
A tooth is cracked, fractured, or weakened by large fillings
Severe decay has compromised the tooth’s structure
A root canal has left the tooth brittle and in need of reinforcement
Cosmetic improvements are desired for misshapen or discolored teeth
A dental implant or bridge needs a natural-looking restoration
Before beginning treatment, Dr. Streelman performs a full evaluation to ensure the underlying tooth and surrounding gum tissue are healthy and stable.
The Dental Crown Procedure
During your crown appointment, the tooth is shaped to remove damaged areas and make space for the restoration. An impression or digital scan is then taken to capture the exact shape of your bite and surrounding teeth.
A temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth while your permanent restoration is being crafted in a dental laboratory. Once your custom crown is ready, it’s tested for fit, color, and bite alignment before being securely bonded with durable dental cement. The final result is a strong, natural-looking tooth that restores function and confidence.
Crown Materials and Options
Choosing the right crown material depends on your needs, the tooth’s location, and your esthetic goals. Dr. Streelman offers several options:
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns
Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns combine strength and beauty. The inner metal layer adds durability, while the porcelain outer layer mimics the color and translucency of natural enamel. These crowns perform well in areas of the mouth that experience moderate biting pressure. Over time, a thin metal margin may become visible near the gum line, which can be corrected with a replacement or an all-ceramic alternative.
All-Ceramic and Zirconia Crowns
All-ceramic and zirconia crowns are popular for their natural appearance and metal-free composition. They transmit light similarly to real enamel, producing a lifelike result that blends perfectly with adjacent teeth. These crowns are ideal for front teeth or anywhere esthetics are a priority. Advances in zirconia and aluminous materials have also improved strength, making them suitable for back teeth in many cases.
Gold Crowns
While less common for visible areas, gold crowns remain one of the most durable options available. They are biocompatible, require minimal tooth reduction, and are gentle on opposing teeth during chewing. Gold crowns are especially beneficial for patients who grind or clench their teeth, or for molars where strength is more important than appearance.
Crowns, Bridges, and Dental Implants
Crowns are often used in conjunction with other restorative treatments.
Fixed bridges use crowns on adjacent teeth to replace one or more missing teeth.
Dental implants serve as the modern alternative, replacing a missing tooth’s root with a titanium post and topping it with a custom crown.
Implants are typically the preferred long-term solution since they prevent bone loss and do not require altering healthy neighboring teeth.
Caring for Your Dental Crown
With proper care, a dental crown can last 10–15 years or longer. To maintain your restoration:
Brush and floss daily, paying close attention to the gum line
Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice or pens
Visit Steelman DDS for regular cleanings and checkups
Consider a night guard if you grind your teeth
Routine professional maintenance allows Dr. Streelman to ensure your crown and surrounding structures remain healthy for years to come.
Affordable, Lasting Restorations in Oceanside
At Steelman DDS, we believe everyone deserves a strong, healthy, and confident smile. We accept most major dental insurance plans and also offer no-interest financing options for patients without coverage.
To find out whether a dental crown, bridge, or implant restoration is right for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Steven Streelman at our state-of-the-art office in Oceanside, CA.
Call (760) 439-0600 or request an appointment online to restore your smile with expert care.