Dental crowns are a common restorative treatment in dentistry, designed to protect and strengthen damaged teeth. Whether due to decay, injury, or wear and tear, teeth can become compromised, and crowns provide a durable solution to restore both functionality and appearance. This article will guide you through everything you need to know about dental crowns, from the types available to the process of getting one, ensuring you can make an informed decision about your dental health.
What are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown, often referred to as a “cap,” is a custom-made covering that fits over a damaged tooth. Crowns are designed to mimic the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth, making them a seamless part of your smile. They are typically used when a tooth is too damaged to be restored with a filling but still has enough structure to support a crown.
Crowns serve several functions:
- Protection: They shield weakened teeth from further damage or decay.
- Restoration: Crowns restore the shape, size, and function of damaged teeth, allowing for normal biting and chewing.
- Aesthetic Improvement: They can enhance the appearance of discolored or misshapen teeth, providing a natural and attractive look.
Types of Dental Crowns
There are various types of dental crowns available, each made from different materials that offer unique benefits. Understanding these options can help you choose the right crown for your needs.
Metal Crowns
Metal crowns are known for their durability and strength, making them an excellent choice for molars, where the force of chewing is greatest. These crowns can be made from gold, palladium, nickel, or chromium. While highly durable, their metallic color makes them more noticeable, so they are typically used for back teeth.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
PFM crowns combine the strength of metal with the aesthetic appeal of porcelain. The metal base provides durability, while the porcelain overlay is designed to blend with your natural teeth. These crowns are a popular choice for both front and back teeth, offering a balance between strength and appearance.
All-Porcelain or All-Ceramic Crowns
All-porcelain or all-ceramic crowns offer the best color match to natural teeth, making them ideal for front teeth. These crowns are metal-free, which also makes them a good option for people with metal allergies. However, they may not be as strong as metal or PFM crowns, especially for teeth that endure heavy biting forces.
Resin Crowns
Resin crowns are less expensive than other types of crowns but are also less durable. They are more prone to wear and fractures and are typically used as a temporary solution. However, their ability to closely match the color of natural teeth can be an advantage in certain situations.
Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia crowns are made from a strong, biocompatible material that offers both durability and aesthetics. They are a popular choice for their strength, resistance to chipping, and natural appearance. Zirconia crowns can be milled in a dental office, allowing for same-day placement.
The Process of Getting a Dental Crown
The process of getting a dental crown typically involves two main appointments, though advancements in technology can sometimes allow for same-day crowns.
Initial Consultation and Tooth Preparation
During the first visit, your dentist will examine the affected tooth and take X-rays to assess the extent of the damage. If the tooth is severely decayed or there is a risk of infection, a root canal may be necessary before placing a crown.
Once the tooth is ready, it will be reshaped to make room for the crown. This involves removing a portion of the tooth’s structure from all sides. After reshaping, an impression of the tooth and surrounding teeth will be taken to create a model. This model is sent to a dental lab where your custom crown is made, which usually takes about two weeks.
Temporary Crown Placement
While waiting for the permanent crown, your dentist will place a temporary crown over the prepared tooth. This temporary crown protects the tooth and maintains its function and appearance. It’s important to take care with a temporary crown, avoiding sticky or hard foods that could dislodge it.
Final Crown Placement
At your second appointment, the temporary crown will be removed, and your new permanent crown will be fitted. Your dentist will check the fit and color, making any necessary adjustments. Once you’re satisfied with the look and feel, the crown will be cemented into place, restoring your tooth’s appearance and function.
When are Dental Crowns Needed?
Dental crowns are used in various situations, providing solutions to a range of dental problems.
Protecting a Weakened Tooth
Teeth that have been weakened by decay, large fillings, or cracks can be strengthened with a crown, preventing further damage and reducing the risk of tooth loss.
Restoring a Broken or Worn Tooth
Crowns can restore teeth that have been broken or severely worn down, allowing them to function normally again.
Supporting a Tooth with a Large Filling
If a tooth has a large filling that compromises its structure, a crown can provide additional support and protect the remaining tooth.
Covering Discolored or Misshapen Teeth
Crowns can enhance the appearance of teeth that are discolored, misshapen, or otherwise cosmetically compromised, creating a more uniform and attractive smile.
Dental Implants
Crowns are often used to cap dental implants, serving as the visible part of the artificial tooth and restoring full function and aesthetics.
Aesthetic and Functional Benefits of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns offer significant benefits, both aesthetically and functionally.
Improved Appearance
Crowns can dramatically improve the appearance of your teeth by covering imperfections such as discoloration, misshaping, and gaps. With advancements in materials, crowns can be made to look very natural, blending seamlessly with your other teeth.
Enhanced Functionality
Crowns restore the normal function of your teeth, allowing you to bite, chew, and speak without discomfort. They also help distribute the forces of biting and chewing evenly across your teeth, which can prevent further damage to compromised teeth.
Durability
With proper care, dental crowns can last for many years, making them a durable and reliable option for restoring teeth. Depending on the material, a crown can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years, or even longer.
Caring for Dental Crowns
Taking care of your dental crowns is essential to ensure their longevity and maintain your oral health.
Daily Oral Hygiene
Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from around the crown. Be gentle around the crown area to avoid damaging the gum line.
Avoiding Certain Foods
To prevent damage to your crown, avoid chewing on hard foods such as ice, nuts, or hard candy. Sticky foods like caramel can also dislodge the crown, so it’s best to avoid them as well.
Regular Dental Check-Ups
Regular dental check-ups are important for maintaining the health of your crown and the rest of your teeth. Your dentist can check for any signs of wear, decay, or gum disease around the crown and address any issues promptly.
Managing Bruxism
If you grind your teeth at night (a condition known as bruxism), it’s important to use a nightguard to protect your crowns from excessive wear and tear.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long do dental crowns last?
The lifespan of a dental crown varies depending on the material and how well you care for it. On average, crowns last between 5 and 15 years.
Can I whiten my dental crowns?
Dental crowns do not respond to whitening treatments. If you’re considering teeth whitening, it’s best to do so before getting crowns, so they can be matched to your newly whitened teeth.
What happens if my crown falls out?
If your crown falls out, contact your dentist immediately. In the meantime, you can use dental adhesive to temporarily hold the crown in place.
Are dental crowns covered by insurance?
Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of crowns, especially if they are needed for restorative purposes. Check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage.
Do dental crowns require special care?
While crowns don’t require special care beyond good oral hygiene practices, it’s important to avoid habits that could damage them, such as chewing on hard objects or grinding your teeth.
Conclusion
Dental crowns are a versatile and effective solution for restoring damaged teeth and improving oral health. Whether you’re dealing with a weakened tooth, a cosmetic issue, or are completing a dental implant, crowns offer both aesthetic and functional benefits. By understanding the different types of crowns, the process of getting one, and how to care for them, you can ensure your dental crowns last for many years, contributing to a healthy and beautiful smile. If you’re considering a dental crown, consult with your dentist to explore the best options for your needs.
