A vital part of restorative dentistry is dental crowns. They help repair teeth damaged by trauma and decay, among other problems. They are a type of dental restoration that covers the back, side, top, and entire visible portion of a tooth. Read on to learn more about when a dental crown is necessary.
Types of Dental Crowns
- Porcelain crowns – These are the most common dental crowns in use. They are of ceramic material that resembles the natural tooth enamel color closely. Their natural appearance makes them best for use on the front teeth.
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns – These are a metal base with a porcelain coating. They are best for the back and front teeth. They are more robust than porcelain crowns.
- Zirconia crowns – These crowns are durable and robust material that closely looks like natural tooth enamel. Their strength makes them best for use on teeth at the back.
- Gold crowns – Made from gold alloys, these are very durable and robust. Dentists prefer to use them for the teeth at the back where grind pressure is high.
When Are Dental Crowns Necessary?
Dental crowns are ideal for treating various dental problems. They help treat tooth decay. A dental crown can help restore a tooth with extensive decay to its normal function. Dental crowns are also ideal for fractured teeth. Injury or trauma can fracture a tooth; a crown will help give it stability and protect it from further damage.
Root canal therapy can weaken the treated tooth. A dental crown can help restore its function and strength. Dental crowns also restore function and strength to teeth with large fillings. Some get dental crowns for cosmetic reasons, like covering misshapen or discolored teeth.
What to Expect During a Dental Crown Procedure
Prepare to have two appointments for your dental crown procedure. The first one entails your dentist preparing your tooth for the crown. They will remove any damage or decay from the tooth and shape it to fit the crown.
They will then take an impression of the prepared tooth, using it to create a dental crown in a dental laboratory. The latter will take several days to complete. Your dentist will place a temporary crown over the tooth to protect it as you wait for the permanent crown.
The second appointment entails removing the temporary crown and placing the permanent one on your tooth. Your dentist will ensure it fits properly and make any adjustments required. They will then use a unique adhesive to secure the dental crown to your tooth.
Maintain proper oral hygiene after your dental crown procedure. Doing so will ensure its longevity. Brush your teeth, floss regularly, and avoid eating sticky and hard foods to avoid damaging your dental crown.
Preparations for Dental Crowns
Various preparations may be necessary for dental crowns. They depend on the extent of the damage to your tooth. A full crown is ideal for extensively decayed or damaged teeth. It covers the entire visible part of the tooth.
A partial crown is for a tooth with a large filling but not damaged extensively. It covers a portion of the tooth. A post and core crown require additional support to hold the dental crown in place. It helps when a tooth has gone through a root canal.
Benefits of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns restore function to damaged teeth. They allow you to chew and bite properly. They protect your damaged teeth by providing a protective barrier to prevent further damage or decay. Dental crowns are long-lasting and durable with proper maintenance and care. They give you an aesthetically appealing smile.
For more on dental crowns, visit Progressive Dental & Associates at our office in Matteson, Illinois. You can call 708-980-0110 to book an appointment today.
