Dental Crowns

What is a dental crown?

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped “cap” that is placed over a damaged or decayed tooth. A crown restores a tooth’s shape, size, and strength.

Dental crowns are used when a tooth is too damaged to be fixed with a filling, inlay, onlay, or dental bonding. They are also used to support a dental bridge.

What is a dental crown made of?

Dental crowns can be made of metal, porcelain fused to metal, all-ceramic, or resin. Porcelain and ceramic offer the most natural-looking appearance as these materials are available in many shades and mimic the appearance of natural teeth.

How are dental crowns fitted?

The process for fitting dental crowns varies slightly depending on the dentist and the patient’s preferences, but typically it goes like this:

At the first appointment, the dentist uses a small impression of the tooth to send to the dental laboratory where a custom crown will be custom-made.

At the second appointment, the dentist checks the fit of the crown and makes sure that the patient’s bite is aligned properly.

How is a dental crown built?

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped dental restoration that protects your tooth from further damage and restores it to its natural size, shape, and function. Your crown will be custom-crafted to fit your tooth, so it will blend perfectly with your smile.

How do I care for my dental crown?

Caring for your dental crown is similar to caring for your natural teeth. You will need to brush and floss thoroughly. You should also continue to visit your dentist regularly for oral hygiene examinations.

How long will a dental crown last?

A dental crown is a dental restoration that completely caps or covers a tooth in order to improve its function, appearance, or both. They’re often recommended when a tooth is severely damaged and cannot be repaired with a filling or other restoration. However, a dental crown can be used for cosmetic purposes as well, such as to whiten a discolored tooth or straighten the appearance of a tooth.

The lifespan of a dental crown depends on a few factors, including:

• Material - The lifespan of a dental crown is impacted by its material. For example, while porcelain may last 10 years or more, a dental crown made of gold may only last five.

• Oral hygiene - A dental crown can last for many years if you take good care of it. That means daily brushing and flossing, along with regular professional cleanings and exams.

• Frequency of biting or chewing - A dental crown often takes the brunt of the chewing when you eat. Therefore, a dental crown that is used for cosmetic purposes may not last as long as a crown used for restorative purposes.

Are there different types of dental crowns?

Yes, there are actually a few different types of dental crowns. However, they all serve the same purpose in that they help strengthen and protect damaged teeth. Each type of crown also has its own advantages.

Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are very strong and are known for their durability. They are often used on molars. However, the metal portion of the crown can sometimes show through as a dark line near the gums and can sometimes affect how the crown looks.

All-ceramic or all-porcelain dental crowns look the most like natural teeth. They also do not cause allergic reactions the way porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns can. However, these crowns can sometimes chip or break.

Porcelain dental crowns are ceramic shells that fit over a tooth to restore its function and appearance. Your dentist may recommend a dental crown if you have a tooth that is severely worn down, cracked, severely damaged by decay, or discolored.

Dental crowns resemble natural teeth. Most dental crowns can be made to match the shape and color of your original tooth. Dental crowns are long-lasting and durable, and with proper care, they can last for 15 years or longer.