Dental Crowns

What Are Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns or caps are custom-made tooth-shaped restorations placed over a damaged or weakened tooth. They cover the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gum line, providing strength, protection, and improved appearance. Dental crowns can be made from different materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, or a combination.

Types of dental crowns

Dental crowns can be fabricated using various materials, each with its characteristics and advantages. The choice of material depends on factors such as the tooth’s location, oral health, and aesthetic preferences.

• Porcelain crowns are famous for their natural appearance and ability to blend with the surrounding teeth. They are resistant to staining and offer excellent durability. Porcelain crowns are often used for front teeth or discernible areas.

• Metal crowns: Metal crowns, often made of gold or silver alloys, are renowned for their exceptional strength and longevity. They are resistant to wear and tear and require minimal removal of the tooth structure. Metal crowns are used for molars or teeth that need extensive support.

• Ceramic crowns: Ceramic crowns combine the strength of metal crowns with the natural aesthetics of porcelain crowns. They are durable and provide an excellent color match to the patient’s natural teeth. Ceramic crowns are famous for patients seeking both strength and aesthetics.

• Zirconia crowns: Zirconia crowns are known for their outstanding strength and biocompatibility. They are resistant to chipping and cracking, making them an ideal choice for patients with bruxism or requiring a more durable restoration.
• Composite resin crowns: Composite resin crowns are made from a tooth-colored material that can bond to the tooth. They offer pleasing aesthetics and are more affordable than other crowns. Composite resin crowns are used for temporary or short-term restorations.

When Are Dental Crowns Needed?

Dental crowns are recommended for various dental conditions, such as:

• Tooth Decay: Dental crowns restore teeth with extensive decay or large cavities that cannot be repaired with a dental filling.
• Tooth Fractures: If a tooth is cracked, chipped, or broken, a dental crown can provide structural support and prevent further damage.
• Root Canal Therapy: After a root canal treatment, a dental crown is often placed over the treated tooth to protect it and restore its strength.
• Cosmetic Purposes: Dental crowns can improve the appearance of misshapen, discolored, or stained teeth, enhancing your smile’s aesthetics.

The Dental Crown Procedure

The dental crown procedure involves two appointments. During the initial visit, our experienced dentist will examine your oral health and assess the condition of the affected tooth. If a dental crown is deemed necessary, the tooth will be prepared by removing a small amount of enamel to make space for the crown. Precise impressions of the prepared tooth will then be taken as a model for fabricating your custom crown.

While the permanent crown is created in a dental laboratory, a temporary one will protect the prepared tooth. Once the final restoration is ready, you will return for the second visit. At this appointment, the temporary crown will be removed, and the permanent crown will be evaluated for fit, color, and aesthetics. If everything meets our high standards, the crown will be bonded to the tooth using dental cement, ensuring a secure and long-lasting restoration.

Benefits of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns offer numerous benefits, including:

• Strengthening Teeth: Crowns support weakened or damaged teeth, preventing further breakage or decay.
• Natural Appearance: With their customized shape, size, and color, dental crowns blend with your natural teeth, enhancing your smile’s aesthetics.
• Restoring Function: Dental crowns restore proper chewing and biting capabilities, allowing you to enjoy your favorite foods with no discomfort.
• Long-lasting Solution: With proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, dental crowns can last for many years, providing durability and stability to your pearly whites.

How long do dental crowns last?

The lifespan of a dental crown depends on several factors, including oral hygiene practices, biting forces, and the material used for the height. On average, dental crowns can last 10 to 15 years or even longer. Maintaining good oral hygiene by brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and attending regular dental check-ups can contribute to the longevity of the dental crown. Avoiding teeth grinding or chewing on hard objects is essential, as they can damage the crown.

What are the risks associated with dental crowns?

While dental crowns are safe and well-tolerated, some potential risks and complications may arise, albeit seldom. These can include:

• Tooth Sensitivity: Some patients may experience sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures after crown placement. This often subsides within a few days.
• Allergic reactions: In rare cases, a patient may be allergic to the materials. If you have known allergies to certain metals or dental materials, it is crucial to inform your dentist beforehand.
• Crown Dislodgement: In rare instances, a dental crown may become loose or dislodged. If this occurs, contact your dentist to have it re-cemented or replaced.

Dental crowns offer a reliable and pleasing solution for restoring damaged teeth and improving oral health. At The Practice, our team of dental professionals is dedicated to providing top-quality dental crowns tailored to each patient’s needs. Please get in touch with us if you have further questions or would like to schedule a consultation. Your smile is our priority!

Alternative Treatment Options

When addressing dental issues, several alternatives can provide effective solutions. This section will explore four popular options: dental veneers, dental implants, dental bridges, and orthodontic treatment. Each offers unique benefits and considerations, allowing individuals to make informed decisions based on their needs.

• Dental Veneers: Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells bonded to the teeth’ front surface. They are made from porcelain or composite resin, providing a natural-looking and durable solution. Veneers can address various cosmetic concerns, such as discoloration, chipped or cracked teeth, uneven spacing, and misalignment. Veneers can create a uniform and aesthetically pleasing smile by covering the visible surface of the teeth.

• Dental Implants: Dental implants are a popular and effective long-term solution for replacing missing teeth. They consist of a titanium post surgically inserted into the jawbone, acting as an artificial tooth root. This post provides a stable foundation for a dental crown, custom-made to match the surrounding teeth. Dental implants offer numerous benefits, including improved functionality, enhanced aesthetics, and preservation of jawbone structure.

• Dental Bridges: Dental bridges are a traditional and reliable option for replacing missing teeth. They consist of artificial teeth, known as pontics, anchored to adjacent natural teeth or dental implants. Bridges can restore the appearance and functionality of a smile by filling the gaps left by missing teeth. They are made from porcelain or ceramic materials, providing a natural-looking and durable solution.
• Orthodontic Treatment: Orthodontic treatment involves braces or aligners to correct misaligned teeth and improve dental alignment. This option suits individuals with crooked teeth, crowded teeth, overbites, underbites, or other issues. Orthodontic treatment aims to achieve an evener smile, enhance oral function, and improve dental health.