A dental crown is custom designed cap for a weakened tooth. It can be created from a number of varied materials, including porcelain or metal. You might need a crown over a molar that seldom shows, or you may need a crown on a front tooth that was specifically created to match your natural teeth. A dental crown, once placed, can strengthen the tooth, protect it, and improve the overall functionality and appearance.
Why Would You Need a Crown?
You may require a crown for a variety of reasons. If you have a cavity that is too large for a filling, it may be best to restore with a crown.
You might also need a crown if a tooth is severely worn down, cracked, chipped, or damaged and weakened. Dental crowns are often recommended after a root canal on a tooth because the tooth is fragile and needs support and protection.
You may also be a candidate for a dental crown if you are missing a tooth, and your dentist needs to fill the gap with a dental bridge or a dental implant.
What Can You Expect When Getting a Crown?
Most often two dental visits are necessary to restore a tooth with a dental crown. During the first visit the tooth is examined, x-rays captured, and the tooth is prepared by removing some enamel from the surface. An impression is made and then sent to a dental lab for the custom fabrication of the crown. A temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth until the crown is finished.
At the second visit, once the permanent crown is completed, the temporary crown will be removed, and the final custom-made crown is cemented into place.
What Types of Crowns Are Available?
Permanent dental crowns are made from a variety of different materials. Your dentist will advise you on the benefits of each and which material will work best for your restoration.
* Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns- A porcelain-fused-to-metal dental crown is the most common material option used. This type offers the best attributes of the metal and the porcelain. It will be stronger than a porcelain only crown and it will match your natural teeth better than a metal only crown. It can work well for either front or back teeth.
* Metal or gold crowns- Gold and metal are the most durable material used for a dental crown. A metal crown might be made of different metal alloys, such as nickel-chromium and chromium. A gold crown is more durable than metal-alloy. They both provide durability and can withstand the biting and chewing pressure, so they are great for molars. Metal and gold crowns are more visible since they do not match the natural shade of your teeth.
* Porcelain or ceramic crowns- Ceramic is the most appropriate for teeth at the front of the mouth since it will match the shade and color of your natural teeth. They will not be as durable as metal or porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns, so they may not last as long.
Each option offers unique benefits, and the material that will work best for you depends on your treatment objectives and the position of the tooth in your mouth needing the dental crown.