Dental crowns are an important tool for restoring strength, health, and aesthetics to teeth that have been damaged or weakened. Knowing more about dental crowns can help you understand why they are a great option for fixing teeth and the benefits they offer.
In this article, we’ll go beyond the basics to explore dental crowns in depth. We’ll start by explaining what dental crowns are and when they are needed, then move on to the types of crowns available, the placement process, and how to prepare for a crown.
Finally, we’ll cover the benefits of dental crowns and the aftercare and maintenance required.
What Are Dental Crowns
A dental crown, also known as a cap, is a custom-made, tooth-shaped restoration that is used to improve the appearance and strength of a damaged or decayed tooth. Dental crowns are typically used to replace a large filling or to protect a weakened tooth from further damage. They can also be used to strengthen a tooth after a root canal treatment or to improve the aesthetic of a tooth that is discoloured or misshapen. Crowns may be made of metal, ceramic, or porcelain and can be colour-matched to blend in with your existing natural teeth.
Dental crown procedures typically involve two visits to the dentist. During the first visit, the dentist will prepare the tooth to be crowned by removing any decayed material and reshaping the tooth. Impressions will be taken and sent to a dental laboratory to create the crown. While the crown is being fabricated, a temporary crown may be placed on the tooth. The crown is then permanently bonded to the tooth during the second visit.
The type of crown chosen will depend on the location of the tooth and the desired outcome. Metal crowns are durable and can withstand heavy occlusion, making them a good option for back teeth. Ceramic and porcelain crowns are better suited for front teeth as they are more aesthetically pleasing and can be colour-matched to your natural teeth.
Dental crowns offer a number of benefits, from restoring the strength and function of decayed teeth to improving the appearance of your smile. When properly cared for, dental crowns can last many years and help maintain the health of your natural teeth.
When Are Dental Crowns Needed
Building on the information discussed previously, it is important to understand when dental crowns are needed in order to preserve the health of a tooth. Dental crowns can be used for a variety of reasons, including the covering of a discoloured or chipped tooth, the protection of a tooth after root canal therapy, and the restoration of a prepared tooth. In some cases, a patient may need a temporary crown while they wait for a permanent, custom crown to be made. Temporary crowns are typically made of acrylic or stainless steel. Permanent crowns, meanwhile, can be made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, gold, zirconia, and stainless steel.
The process of having a crown fitted usually involves two dental visits. During the first visit, the tooth is prepared, and the dentist takes an impression of it. At the second visit, the crown is checked for fit and properly secured to the tooth using dental cement. The crown is then polished and flossed to ensure that it is properly fitted.
Types of Dental Crowns
The types of dental crowns available are varied, ranging from traditional materials such as porcelain or gold to more modern materials such as zirconia and stainless steel.
All crown types are designed to restore a patient’s tooth structure and provide long-term dental treatments. Gold alloys and ceramic materials have been used for centuries, but same-day crowns made with digital impressions are now available. Metal structures are also used, and they provide a strong foundation for dental restorations.
Depending on the patient’s needs, the crown type can vary, giving the dentist the ability to choose the best material for the job. Porcelain crowns are often used for aesthetics, while metal structures are preferred for strength and durability. Zirconia is a popular choice due to its combination of strength and beauty.
The right crown type can ensure a patient’s smile remains beautiful for years to come.
Dental Crown Placement
Frequently, a dental crown is placed on a tooth to restore its structure and protect it from further decay. Dental crown treatment is a great option for people who need to protect their natural tooth structure from further damage.
However, if a tooth is missing entirely, a dental bridge can be used to replace it. A bridge consists of a false tooth, called a pontic, flanked by two dental crowns that are cemented to the healthy teeth on either side of the gap. This option helps maintain the proper bite, prevents teeth from shifting, and improves aesthetics.
An experienced dentist is required to properly place a dental crown, and the process often involves a gum lift in certain situations. This initial step, also known as crown lengthening, gum contouring, or gingivectomy, involves removing excess gum tissue to create space for the crown and ensure a proper fit. After the gum lift (if needed), the remaining tooth structure is prepared by removing a small amount of natural enamel to make room for the crown.
The crown is then placed over the prepared tooth and adjusted to ensure it fits perfectly with the neighboring teeth and gum tissue. Proper care of the dental crown and surrounding gum tissue is crucial for maintaining its longevity and strength over time.
With proper care and regular check-ups, crowns can last many years and help keep the tooth healthy and strong.
Preparing for a Dental Crown
When considering a dental crown procedure, it is important to understand the preparation process that is involved in order to ensure the best possible outcome. Proper oral hygiene is the first step in preparation for a dental crown placement. The teeth should be cleaned, and any decay should be removed prior to the placement of the crown.
In some cases, a stainless steel crown may be used in children to protect their teeth from further decay. For adults, same-day dental crowns made of resin, all-ceramic, or all-porcelain may be used. Temporary cement is often used to hold the crown in place while the permanent cement is being prepared.
In some cases, a digital scan may be used in order to create the crown. This is often done in order to ensure a precise fit. The dental professional may also take a mould of the teeth in order to create the crown. Once the crown is ready, it will be placed and secured in place with permanent dental cement.
The preparation process for a dental crown is an important step in the procedure. It is essential to ensure that the crown fits properly and is securely placed in order to protect the teeth. With proper preparation, the dental crown should last for many years.
Benefits of Dental Crowns
One of the primary benefits of dental crowns is the protection they provide for teeth weakened by decay, fracture, or other damage. Through the use of proper oral hygiene practices, dental crowns can help preserve healthy teeth and even save fractured teeth from extraction. For a normal tooth, a crown can be used to cover a composite resin that has been used to restore the tooth to its original shape and size. In cases where a tooth is severely misshapen, a crown can be used to cover the entire tooth, providing special care and protection from further damage.
Aesthetically speaking, dental crowns can be used to match the natural tooth colour of a person’s smile, providing an improved aesthetic appearance. Crowns can also be used to cover teeth that are discoloured or stained, giving the patient a more attractive smile. In addition, crowns can be used to cover misshapen teeth, which can help improve the overall appearance of a person’s smile.
Aftercare and Maintenance
Following the successful placement of a dental crown, proper aftercare and maintenance are essential to ensure the long-term success of the restoration.
Oral health should be regularly monitored, and any discomfort or irritation should be reported to the dental office. Weak teeth should be monitored for risk of infection, and damaged teeth should be protected to avoid further harm.
If a gold crown is used, the metal alloy may wear away over time, and the crown may need to be replaced. If a crown becomes loose, it is important to contact the dental office for a replacement tooth.
During regular dental appointments, the dental office should inspect the crown for any signs of wear and tear. It is important to note that ceramic crowns and metal alloy crowns may require more frequent checkups.
With proper care and maintenance, a dental crown can last a long time, while also improving the appearance and functionality of a damaged tooth.
Key Takeaways
Dental crowns provide a safe and effective solution to restoring the health and integrity of your teeth.
With the many different types of crowns available, it is important to consult with your dentist to determine which option is best for you.
The placement of a dental crown is typically a straightforward procedure that can provide long-term benefits.
Proper aftercare and maintenance are essential for ensuring the longevity of your dental crown.
Wattle Park Dental is the place to go if you need a reliable and experienced dentist in Surrey Hills, VIC to give you a dental crown. With decades of experience providing high-quality dental care, you can trust in our expertise to help you restore the health and integrity of your teeth. Contact them today to start your journey to a healthier smile!
Dr. Marvin Yau, GDip (Dent), BOH (Dent Sci), is a distinguished dentist in Surrey Hills. He completed his studies at Griffith University in sunny Queensland under the sponsorship of the Australian Defence Force. During his tenure in the Royal Australian Army Dental Corps, Dr. Yau honed his skills and gained extensive experience working directly under the mentorship of specialist prosthodontists and periodontists. Now settled in Melbourne with his wife Reina and daughter Isla, Dr. Marvin Yau has embraced the Surrey Hills community and is dedicated to providing top-notch dental care to its residents.