Caps Specialist
A dental cap is a practical, effective, and innovative solution for a chipped or damaged tooth. In Orinda, California, Virginia H. Ellis, DDS Dental Corp. provides dental caps, dental bonding, and other solutions as reliable ways to protect and improve a weakened tooth and boost the appearance of your smile. The dedicated dental professionals have extensive experience and are available to answer your questions and address your concerns. Get the beautiful smile you’ve been envisioning by calling Virginia H. Ellis, DDS Dental Corp. or request an appointment online.
Caps Q & A
What is a dental cap?
A dental cap is sculpted to the shape of your original damaged tooth. Dental caps effectively cover your tooth to improve its strength, functioning, and appearance.
Your dentist securely places your dental cap on top of your original tooth covering the visible area above your gum line.
Why would I need a dental cap?
Your dentist might suggest a dental cap for a number of reasons. A cap improves the appearance or holds together and protects a weak tooth, effectively saving and preserving your natural tooth.
A cap can also cover an oddly shaped or discolored tooth or a dental implant.
What are the different types of caps?
Caps can be derived from various dental materials, such as:
- Stainless steel
- Gold or another alloy (zirconia)
- Porcelain fused to metal
- Resin
- Ceramic
Your dentist can help you decide the right dental cap for your individual needs.
How are dental caps placed?
A dental cap procedure usually requires at least two dental visits, but some caps can be fitted in the same day.
If your cap involves two or more visits, during your first appointment, your dentist typically takes in-office X-rays to assess your oral health.
Then, your dentist administers anesthesia and builds up or files down your original tooth, so your new cap can attach securely. Impressions of your teeth are made and sent to a dental lab where a technician uses it to create your custom cap.
Your dentist creates a temporary cap to protect your tooth in the interim until your permanent restoration is complete. When your permanent cap is ready, you return to the office where your dentist carefully cements it in place.
If you’re missing one or more teeth, your provider might recommend a fixed bridge and dental caps. Virginia H. Ellis, DDS Dental Corp. has a selection of dental solutions and treatments, including caps, bridges, bonding, and fillings.
If a cap isn’t suitable, your dentist might recommend dental bonding — the application of tooth-colored resin. Dental bonding is a simple process that usually takes between 30 and 60 minutes per tooth.
Another restoration option is tooth-colored fillings that effectively fill a hole in your tooth, typically following the removal of tooth decay. Tooth-colored (composite) fillings are long-lasting and specially designed to discreetly blend in with your natural teeth. They’re typically made from ceramic and plastic compounds.
Resolve your dental concerns and find out what’s best for you. Call Virginia H. Ellis, DDS Dental Corp. or click below to schedule online today.