Dental Crowns

What is a Dental Crowns

A dental crown is a type of dental restoration that covers or “caps” a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Dental crowns are custom-made to fit over the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gum line.

Here’s an overview of the procedure for getting a dental crown, when it’s needed, and the types of dental crowns available:

Procedure for Getting a Dental Crown:

1. Evaluation: Your dentist will examine your tooth and may take X-rays to assess the extent of damage or decay and determine if a crown is necessary.
2. Tooth Preparation: To make room for the crown, the dentist will numb the area with local anesthesia and remove any decayed or damaged portions of the tooth. They will then reshape the tooth to create space for the crown.
3. Impression: After the tooth is prepared, the dentist will take an impression or digital scan of the tooth and the surrounding teeth. This impression is used to create a custom-made crown that fits perfectly over the prepared tooth.
4. Temporary Crown: While the permanent crown is being made, a temporary crown may be placed over the prepared tooth to protect it and restore function and appearance.
5. Permanent Crown Placement: Once the permanent crown is ready, usually after a couple of weeks, you’ll return to the dentist to have it placed. The dentist will remove the temporary crown, if one was placed, and cement the permanent crown onto the prepared tooth.
6. Final Adjustments: The dentist will check the fit and bite of the crown and make any necessary adjustments to ensure it feels comfortable and functions properly. The crown is then polished to a natural-looking finish.

When Dental Crowns are Needed:

• Dental crowns are used to restore and protect teeth that are:
  • Severely decayed or damaged.
  • Cracked or fractured.
  • Weakened due to large fillings or root canal treatment.
  • Misshapen or discolored and need cosmetic improvement.
  • Used to support dental bridges or cover dental implants.

Types of Dental Crowns:

1. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns: These crowns have a metal base covered with a layer of tooth-colored porcelain. They provide strength and durability while offering a natural appearance.
2. All-Ceramic or All-Porcelain Crowns: These crowns are made entirely of ceramic or porcelain material, providing excellent aesthetics and biocompatibility. They are suitable for front teeth or those with metal allergies.
3. Metal Crowns: These crowns are made of metal alloys such as gold, platinum, or base metal alloys. They are highly durable and are often used for molars where strength and durability are essential.
4. Zirconia Crowns: Zirconia crowns are made of a strong, tooth-colored material known as zirconia. They offer excellent strength and aesthetics and are suitable for both front and back teeth.

The choice of crown material depends on factors such as the location of the tooth, aesthetic preferences, bite forces, and budget. Your dentist will discuss the options with you and recommend the most suitable type of crown for your specific needs.