what are dental crowns? advantages of dental crowns

What is a dental crown?

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped dental restoration. It fits over a tooth that has been damaged or weakened by decay and prepares the tooth for a new dental filling or other restoration. Dental crowns are custom-made to fit the size and shape of your tooth, and your tooth will fully encase it. Dental crowns are designed to look and feel like your natural teeth.

Advantages of dental crowns

A dental crown restores a tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance. A dental crown may be recommended when a tooth is fractured, has a large filling, is worn down, or is misshapen. It can also replace a tooth that has been treated with a root canal.

Dental crowns vs. dental implants

While dental crowns and dental implants are both types of restorations, they have different purposes.

A dental crown is a restoration that is custom made to fit over the entire tooth. The crown covers the entire tooth above the gum line and is bonded into place.

Dental bridges explained

Dental crowns are dental restorations that cover a tooth on all sides. These restorations can be made of porcelain or metal. Dental crowns are sometimes called caps or jackets. These restorations help to protect a weakened tooth or cover a dental implant.

Dental bridges are dental restorations that are used to replace one or more missing teeth. A bridge is used when there are adjacent teeth on both sides of a missing tooth. The bridge consists of two dental crowns and a false tooth in between.

Dental crowns vs. veneers

When a tooth has suffered from significant damage, a dental crown may be necessary to protect the remaining tooth from further damage. Dental crowns can also be used to improve the appearance of a tooth that is misshapen or discolored.

The procedure for placing a crown is similar to that of a dental filling. After the tooth has been prepared, we will make an impression of the tooth using a special material. A dental laboratory will create your dental crown from this information. Once the crown has been made, we will check the fit, make any needed adjustments, and permanently place the crown over the tooth.

Dental veneers are a form of cosmetic dentistry. Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are designed to cover the fronts of your teeth. They are made from tooth-colored materials and can be bonded over a tooth to improve the appearance of the tooth.

Dental crowns vs. fillings

A dental crown covers a tooth that is cracked, broken, misshapen, or discolored. A filling, on the other hand, is used to fill a cavity.

Generally, a dental crown is a better option than a filling when the tooth has been damaged. A crown will function and look just like your natural tooth.

Dental crowns vs. root canals

Dental crowns prevent the need for root canals, but dental crowns don’t replace molars. If your dentist recommends a root canal, you’ll want to follow his or her advice. A root canal clears out the bacteria and nerves in the affected tooth and helps it stay healthy longer.

If your dentist recommends a root canal, consider getting a dental crown afterward to protect the tooth. A dental crown can repair a cracked tooth, restore a tooth after a root canal, and cover up stains and discoloration. Crowns can even help replace missing teeth.

5 Benefits of Dental Crowns

1. A dental crown will prevent further damage to the tooth.

A dental crown covers up the entire tooth. This gives the damaged tooth extra support and protection. The crown covers up any cracks, chips, or discoloration that might otherwise attract bacteria and cause further damage.

2. A dental crown will protect the tooth from further decay.

A dental crown helps prevent bacteria from getting into the tooth, which can cause further decay. The crown keeps the tooth covered and protected.

3. A dental crown prevents the need for a root canal.

With a crown, you can avoid the need for a root canal. A root canal is when the tooth’s nerve is cleaned out, and the tooth is sealed. By getting a dental crown, you can avoid this invasive treatment.

4. A dental crown will prevent further breakage.

A dental crown provides extra support and protection to the tooth. When a tooth is damaged or cracked, a crown prevents it from breaking any further.

5. A dental crown is aesthetically pleasing.

Dental crowns vs. tooth extraction

While a tooth extraction prevents further damage to a tooth, a dental crown strengthens a damaged tooth. Continue reading to learn if dental crowns are right for you.

Dental crowns are often used to repair a tooth that is broken or damaged by decay. A dental crown fits over a tooth to cover up the visible portion of the tooth. They are often made of porcelain, ceramic, or porcelain fused to metal. A crown also restores a tooth’s size and shape, improving both function and appearance. Unlike a veneer, a crown covers the entire visible surface of the tooth.

A crown is designed to last about 10 to 15 years. However, the lifespan of a crown depends greatly on proper oral hygiene.