A dental crown is a type of dental restoration that can help restore the appearance and function of a damaged tooth.
In this article, we will explore damage to durability with a closer look at dental crowns, including types, reasons, processes, benefits, care, and who is the best candidate.
What Are Dental Crowns
Interestingly, dental crowns are a dental restoration technique used to repair and protect damaged teeth. A dental crown is a type of permanent crown that encases the entire tooth surface, restoring its normal shape, size and colour. Dental crowns are often recommended when a tooth has been weakened by decay or trauma or when a discoloured or misshapen tooth needs to be restored. Dental crowns can be made from a variety of materials, such as metal, ceramic, or a combination of both. Metal crowns are the strongest and most durable type of crown, while ceramic crowns are designed to match the colour of natural teeth closely.
Regardless of the type of crown chosen, the process of installing a dental crown is the same. The dentist will first prepare the tooth by removing any decay or damaged areas and then shape the tooth to make room for the crown. Once the crown is created, it is placed onto the prepared tooth and secured with an adhesive. After the crown has been fitted, the dentist may make subtle adjustments to ensure a comfortable fit.
Overall, dental crowns provide a great way to restore the appearance and function of damaged teeth. They are strong and durable and can last for many years with proper care. Dental crowns are an effective way to restore the appearance and function of damaged teeth, and they come in a variety of materials and types to suit your individual needs.
Types of Dental Crowns
Consequently, there are several types of crowns available, including metal, ceramic, and combination crowns. Metal crowns are typically made of gold alloys, palladium, chromium, and other metals. Ceramic crowns, such as porcelain crowns or zirconia crowns, are made from a dental impression and fired in a kiln. Combination crowns are made with a metal base and a ceramic layer and may be made from a composite resin. Gold crowns are strong and durable yet are more expensive than other dental crowns. Ceramic crowns are a better choice for front teeth as they provide a more natural look. Zirconia crowns are also popular as they are solid and durable.
The type of crown chosen will depend on the patient’s individual needs. The dentist will take a dental impression, and then the crown will be crafted to fit the tooth. It is then placed onto the tooth with dental cement. It is important to note that some patients may have an allergic reaction to the metals used in metal crowns and should consider other types of crowns.
Reasons for Getting Dental Crowns
Although many types of dental crowns are available, they are all typically used to restore damaged teeth or improve a tooth’s appearance. Dental crowns are often used to cover a tooth treated with a root canal, tooth decay or broken tooth, support a dental bridge, or cover a dental implant. A custom crown may be used to restore a tooth that has become loose due to wear or root canal treatment. A temporary crown may be used while a permanent crown is being made in a dental laboratory. Same-day crowns are also available, which are made in the dental office using a computer-aided design system.
Dental crowns can be used to improve a tooth’s function and durability. They also provide protection to a weakened tooth and can help to prevent further damage. A crown can improve its appearance and function by replacing missing or damaged parts of a tooth. Crowns are also used to restore teeth that have become decayed, broken, or worn down over time.
The dental crown procedure can be completed in one to two visits, depending on the type of crown and the complexity of the procedure. A local anesthetic is usually used to numb the area before the dental crown procedure begins. The dentist will then prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping it for the crown. After the crown is fitted, the dentist will make any necessary adjustments to ensure a proper fit. With proper care, dental crowns can last many years.
The Process for Getting Dental Crowns
When seeking to restore a damaged or decayed tooth, a dental crown may be the ideal solution for improving durability and function. The process of getting a dental crown involves multiple visits to the dentist and various dental procedures. It is important to maintain good oral hygiene, have regular dental visits, and seek dental treatments for any issues that arise.
The first step in getting a dental crown is having a dental filling placed on the damaged or decayed tooth. Then, the dentist will prepare the natural tooth and take impressions of it to create a crown that matches the natural colour and shape of the tooth. Once the crown is ready, the dentist will place it on the tooth and make any necessary adjustments. Finally, the dentist will evaluate the crown to make sure it aligns with the other healthy teeth and looks like a normal tooth.
The following steps are involved in getting a dental crown:
- Maintaining good oral hygiene
- Regular dental visits
- Dental filling
- Taking impressions for the crown
- Placing the crown and making adjustments
- Evaluating the crown
Dental crowns are an effective treatment for restoring missing teeth, protecting damaged teeth, and improving the overall health of your teeth. By following the steps in the dental crown treatment, you can ensure that your teeth remain healthy and strong for many years.
Benefits of Dental Crowns
How do dental crowns benefit patients?
Dental crowns can be used to help patients who are dealing with issues related to gum disease, root canal therapy, or missing teeth. By covering the entire tooth, a dental crown will help restore the chewing surface and give the tooth a more natural appearance. Plus, dental crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including ceramic and porcelain, which will look and feel much like real teeth.
A dental crown can also help protect the underlying tooth and reduce the risk of further damage. This can be especially beneficial for patients who have had root canal therapy, as the crown will help keep the treated tooth strong. Additionally, dental crowns can help promote good dental hygiene, making it easier for patients to take special care of their oral health.
Care and Maintenance of Dental Crowns
Once a dental crown is placed, proper care and maintenance are essential in order to ensure its durability. Dental crowns are a great way to restore weak teeth, fractured teeth, and teeth with extensive decay, thus reducing the risk of infection. Crowns are also used as a filling material and for cosmetic modification of the teeth. Crowns are typically made from metal structures such as stainless steel or all-ceramic crowns.
To maintain dental crowns, it is important to:
- Brush twice a day and floss regularly
- Avoid chewing hard or sticky foods
- Visit the dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings
- Wear a mouthguard when playing sports
- Practice good oral hygiene habits
In addition to proper care and maintenance, it is also important to have regular check-ups with your dentist to ensure that your crowns are fitting correctly and that no decay has occurred underneath the crown. If your crowns become damaged, it is important to visit your dentist as soon as possible in order to replace the crowns and restore your oral health.
Best Candidates for Dental Crowns
Patients who are in need of significant repairs to their teeth, such as weakened teeth, fractured teeth, or extensive decay, are the best candidates for dental crowns. Misshapen teeth due to injury or genetics, can be corrected with a dental crown, as can teeth with damaged enamel or large fillings. Dental professionals may suggest crowns for adjacent teeth to provide support or to replace a false tooth or primary tooth. In cases where a patient has undergone a root canal procedure, a crown is often necessary to protect and seal the tooth.
All-porcelain crowns are often recommended for visible teeth, as they are better able to match the colour of the patient’s existing teeth. For discoloured teeth which cannot be whitened, a crown can be used to cover the discolouration. Permanent teeth may require a crown when the patient needs to replace a large filling. Dental professionals can assess the condition of a patient’s teeth and determine if they are a good candidate for a crown.
Key Takeaways
Dental crowns are a great way to restore teeth from damage to durability, depending on the type of crown and the individual’s needs. They can help protect teeth from further damage, improve the appearance of the teeth, and provide a longer-lasting solution than other restorative treatments.
With proper care and maintenance, dental crowns can help a person maintain strong, healthy teeth for years to come, allowing them to “have their cake and eat it too.”
If you’re looking for a reliable and experienced team to help you restore your teeth and maintain your dental health, be sure to visit Clyde North Dental Studio. Our experienced team of dentists in Clyde North, VIC will provide you with various services, from dental crowns to other restorative treatments, to ensure you have strong and healthy teeth for years to come.