A healthy smile is essential for a happy life, and dental crowns are an excellent way to help maintain one.
As if by coincidence, dental crowns are a type of dental restoration that encases the entire visible portion of a tooth, giving it the strength and durability of a natural tooth.
This article will provide an in-depth look at dental crowns—what they are, the types available, the procedure, the benefits, and who should consider them.
By understanding the ins and outs of dental crowns, you can decide how to serve your smile best.
What are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is an artificial restoration that completely covers the visible portion of a tooth. It is used to restore a damaged or decayed tooth or give an existing tooth a new shape or colour. Dental crowns are also used to support a dental bridge, protect a weak tooth from breaking, or cover a dental implant.
Several types of crowns are available, including permanent crowns, same-day crowns, and those made of ceramic, metal, porcelain, or zirconia. Permanent crowns are usually made of gold or other metal alloys and are often used for back teeth as they are the most durable and long-lasting type of crown. Ceramic crowns are made of porcelain and are usually used for front teeth as they can be matched to the colour of the natural teeth. Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns combine porcelain and metal to create a strong and aesthetically pleasing crown. Zirconia crowns are a type of ceramic crown made of zirconium dioxide and are the strongest type of crown.
Before placing a dental crown, a root canal treatment may be necessary to clean and fill the inside of the tooth. After the tooth is prepared, an impression is taken of the tooth and sent to a dental lab to fabricate the crown. Once the crown is ready, it is attached to the tooth with dental cement.
Dental crowns are a great way to restore the aesthetic and function of a damaged or decayed tooth. They can also be used to support a dental bridge or dental implant and to protect a weak tooth from breaking. With proper care and maintenance, dental crowns can last for many years.
Types of Dental Crowns
Different types of restorations are available to improve tooth structure and appearance. Dental crowns are a type of restoration used to strengthen, restore, and protect damaged or decayed teeth. A dental crown can also be used to enhance the appearance of a tooth. Several types of dental crowns are available, including temporary crowns, dental bridges, composite resin crowns, and stainless steel crowns.
A temporary crown is acrylic and protects the natural tooth until a permanent crown is made. These are typically used for teeth that are waiting for a restoration procedure.
A dental bridge is a restoration used to replace a missing tooth. It comprises two crowns connected to a false tooth in the middle. The crowns are attached to the adjacent teeth and hold the false tooth in place.
Composite resin crowns are made of composite material and are used to restore the entire tooth. These are ideal options for people who want to maintain a natural look.
Stainless steel crowns are used primarily for children and are cost-effective for restoring decayed teeth. They can also be used to protect a tooth that requires a root canal procedure.
No matter the type of crown used, proper care is essential to maintain a healthy smile. This includes brushing and flossing, regular visits to the dentist, and avoiding hard or sticky foods. Following the dentist’s instructions for properly caring for a dental crown is important. With proper maintenance, a dental crown can last for many years.
The Procedure for Getting a Dental Crown
The procedure for getting a dental crown typically requires two visits to the dentist. During the initial visit, the dentist will examine the patient’s teeth and gums to determine the size, shape, and type of crown needed. This will be followed by the removal of any necessary decay and the reshaping of the tooth. Next, digital impressions are taken using a special digital scanner, which creates a 3D model of the patient’s mouth. This model creates a customised, tooth-shaped cap for the patient’s tooth. The crown is then crafted using either porcelain or resin material, depending on the type of crown chosen.
The second visit is dedicated to placing the crown and ensuring it fits properly and is comfortable for the patient. During this visit, the dentist will use dental cement to affix the crown in place permanently. Additionally, the dentist will check for proper bite alignment and any risks of infection.
The following steps are involved in the procedure for getting a dental crown:
- Examining the patient’s teeth and gums to determine the size, shape, and type of crown needed
- Removal of decay and reshaping of the tooth
- Taking digital impressions with a digital scanner
- Crafting the crown from either porcelain or resin material
- Placing the crown and affixing it with dental cement
- Checking for proper bite alignment and risks of infection
Dental crowns provide an excellent way to restore teeth damaged due to decay or other issues. The k is relatively simple and straightforward, with the only major risk being a possible infection. Dental crowns can provide a reliable and long-lasting solution for dental restorations if done correctly.
Benefits of Getting a Dental Crown
Getting a dental crown can provide various benefits for restoring damaged teeth. It can be used to cover a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy, protect it from further damage caused by gum disease, or provide stability and support for a tooth weakened by decay. A dental crown can also secure a loose crown or fill in a gap between two teeth.
Getting a dental crown involves preparing the damaged tooth by removing any decay, shaping it, and then fitting it with a temporary crown. The dentist will then take an impression of the prepared tooth and send it to a dental lab to create a custom-made dental crown. Depending on the situation, a dental crown may be made of metal alloys, gold alloys, or all-ceramic crowns. Once the dental crown is ready, it is secured to the prepared tooth with dental cement.
A dental crown can improve the tooth’s appearance and provide additional strength and protection. It can also help prevent further damage to the underlying tooth and provide better stability, improving the patient’s bite. Additionally, the crown can help protect the underlying teeth from further damage caused by grinding or clenching.
The benefits of getting a dental crown extend beyond improved aesthetics. An individual can benefit from improved oral health due to a dental crown’s strength and protection. This can help prevent further dental issues arising from a damaged or weakened tooth. Furthermore, a dental crown can help reduce the cost of future dental procedures since the crown can protect the underlying tooth from further damage.
Caring for Your Dental Crown
Caring for a dental crown is an important part of maintaining the restoration and protecting the underlying tooth. A dental crown can restore weak teeth, improve oral health, and protect a chewing surface. Proper care of a crown can also help to protect the adjacent teeth and help to keep the crown looking natural and aesthetically pleasing.
Daily brushing and flossing are key components of caring for a dental crown. Brushing helps to remove plaque and bacteria that can cause discolouration and wear of the crown. Flossing helps to clean around the crown to help maintain a healthy tooth and gums.
Regular dental visits are also recommended to ensure the crown is in good condition. The dentist can inspect the crown for any damage or wear during these visits. If any issues are found, the dentist can recommend treatments to help protect the crown and underlying tooth.
Sometimes, a root canal may be necessary before the crown is placed. This helps protect the underlying tooth’s health and ensure the crown’s natural appearance. The dentist may also recommend a custom crown that fits the natural shape of the tooth and provides more protection from damage.
Best Candidates for Dental Crowns
Patients with weakened or damaged teeth may benefit from the placement of a dental crown. This type of dental restoration is beneficial for the protection and restoration of tooth structure and may be necessary due to an allergic reaction or a lack of natural enamel. Dental crowns come in various materials such as gold, porcelain, and metallic. Each material requires special care and attention; some provide the best aesthetic solution for matching a patient’s natural tooth colour.
The placement of a dental crown requires professional care and attention. Dental impressions are taken so that the crown can be made and fitted perfectly to the patient’s teeth. Temporary cement is often used to secure the crown until the permanent cementation is completed. Patients need to discuss their health goals and the best type of crown with their dentists to ensure the best outcome.
Dental crowns are a great option for many patients as they can help fortify weakened or damaged teeth while restoring natural tooth colour and aesthetics. With the help of of a dental professional, patients can find the best crown option for their needs. A well-fitted crown can provide a beautiful smile and long-term oral health benefits.
Key Takeaways
Dental crowns can be a great option for restoring teeth and giving people a healthy, beautiful smile. They are a long-term solution, with many lasting up to fifteen years or more with proper care.
On average, dental crowns are successful in over 95% of cases, making them an effective and reliable way to improve dental health. Seeking professional advice from a dental specialist is the best way to determine if a dental crown is an appropriate solution for a particular dental issue.
At EDentist Bentleigh East, VIC, we believe dental crowns are a great solution for restoring teeth and giving people a beautiful, natural-looking smile. Our team of experts are experienced and qualified to discuss the potential benefits of dental crowns and provide advice on the best course of action for your specific dental needs. Book an appointment with us today and take the first step to a healthier, more confident smile.
