Sarah used to avoid smiling because of a chipped tooth. Then, she discovered dental crowns, and now she can't stop showing off her confident smile!
Dental crown treatment can help repair and protect your injured teeth.
But what exactly is the dental crown procedure? How do these affect your smile?
This blog breaks down the essentials of dental crowns to help you smile with confidence. We'll discuss
- their function
- the process of getting them fitted,
- their longevity and
- effects on your smile.
Chipped teeth got you down? Understanding dental crowns could be the key to getting your smile back on track!
What are dental crowns?
A dental crown represents a protective cap or covering. It completely covers a damaged tooth. It
- Enhances the appearance of a decayed or broken tooth
- Strengthens and makes your damaged tooth more durable in the long run.
Dental crown treatment is a fast and convenient cosmetic intervention. You can restore your smile and bring back your happy glow.
Dental crown procedure: Explained
Typically, the dentist will start by preparing your affected tooth.
- It involves removing a thin layer of its outer surface. It will be designed exactly the same thickness as the bit that was taken away.
- Next, your dental professional takes a mould of your tooth.
- It is then sent off to a technician who crafts the crown. They'll ensure the crown matches the colour of your other teeth. Only then it can blend seamlessly.
- In the meantime, you might receive a temporary crown.
Now it’s the final phase of the dental crown procedure. Your dentist uses an adhesive to secure your dental crown.
When Do You Need a Dental Crown Treatment?
Your dentist might suggest a crown to:
- Replace a large filling when there isn't enough natural tooth left.
- Safeguard a fragile tooth from breaking.
- Mend a fractured tooth.
- Support a dental bridge.
- Cover a dental implant.
- Conceal a discoloured or oddly shaped tooth.
- Shield a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment.
If you've sudden bleeding or a knocked out tooth, make sure to contact emergency dental services. They'll offer appropriate treatment before placing a dental crown.
Types of Dental Crown
We all have unique smiles! That's why there are so many crown options. Your dentist will recommend the best one based on your specific situation.
Metal Crowns
Metal crowns boast exceptional durability. They are crafted using various metals, like
- gold,
- palladium,
- nickel, and
- chromium,
Metal dental crowns rarely chip or break. They're known for their longevity. In metal dental crown procedure you'll require minimal enamel removal.
Metal crowns can withstand the pressures of biting and chewing. It makes them ideal for molars. However, their metallic appearance may not suit visible teeth.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
PFM crowns combine the strength of metal with the natural look of porcelain.
Your dentist can match these crowns to the shade of your natural teeth. Despite their strength, PFM crowns may develop chipping over time. This can reveal the metal underneath.
In some cases, this dental crown treatment can also cause gradual wear on opposing teeth. PFM crowns are ideal for both front and back teeth.
Pressed Ceramic Crowns
These crowns feature a hard ceramic core. It resembles natural tooth enamel's translucency. While durable, the ceramic layers may chip away over time.
Pressed ceramic crowns are a great choice for both front and back teeth.
All-ceramic or Porcelain Crowns
These crowns closely resemble natural tooth enamel. The porcelain dental crown procedure is ideal for those with metal allergies.
Popular materials for ceramic crowns include zirconium dioxide. It is known for
- its exceptional durability and
- gentle impact on opposing teeth.
They're a fantastic choice for both your front teeth, where looks matter most, and your back teeth, where strength is key.
All-Resin Crowns
Looking for a budget-friendly crown option? Resin crowns are a great choice. But keep in mind they might need to be replaced sooner than other materials.
They're commonly used as temporary crowns. A resin crown placed during dental crown procedure can last around three to five years on average.
Factors to Consider When Selecting the Dental Crown
Picking the perfect material for your crown? These tips will help you choose the 'super material' that best suits your needs:
Appearance
For front teeth, you might want to get porcelain or ceramic crowns. They blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. Therefore, they offer a more aesthetically pleasing result.
Strength
If you're getting the dental crown treatment for a molar or another tooth then materials like gold or metal alloys may be more suitable. These crowns can withstand significant chewing force, and are more durable.
Allergies
Check if you have metal allergies. In such cases, consider ceramic or porcelain crowns. 'll help you avoid any adverse reactions.
Wrapping Up
Your dentist may suggest dental crown treatment. It can help fix worn, damaged, or decayed teeth. Dental crowns can be crafted using different materials. The best choice for you will depend on several things:
- your budget,
- what you prefer, and
- your specific oral health needs.
With proper care, your crown can stay in good shape for many years.
