Dental Crowns and Their Purposes
Dental crowns are tooth-shaped caps that cover a damaged or decayed tooth, restoring its shape, size, strength, and appearance. They protect weakened teeth, support dental bridges, cover dental implants, and improve the aesthetics of the smile.
Differences from Fillings and Veneers
Dental crowns offer a more thorough reconstruction that encompasses the whole visible part of a tooth above the gumline, quite unlike the repair of a small cavity or the masking of a cosmetic issue with a thin layer of porcelain.
When Are Dental Crowns Recommended and What Issues Can They Address?
If a tooth is overly decayed, broken, weak, or misshapen, we are likely to recommend a crown.
Crowns can:
- Repair teeth with extensive cavities
- Protect a tooth that has received root canal treatment
- Restore a tooth when it has broken
- Make a tooth look whole and healthy again
- Make a tooth look better if it is discolored or poorly shaped
- Protect a tooth that may be weeks or months away from being “in the danger zone” of needing root canal treatment.
Materials and Comparisons
Different types of materials can be used to create crowns, including metals like gold and silver, porcelain, and “porcelain-fused-to-metal” (PFM). From an appearance standpoint, porcelain is the ideal material choice; it closely matches the look of natural teeth. For back teeth, which aren’t seen as often, metal might be a better option.
Dental Crowns: Procedure and Expectations
The crown process consists of several steps. First, the tooth must be prepared for the placement of the crown. During this step, the tooth is reduced in size, and any existing decay is removed. Next, an impression (or mold) of the prepared tooth is made. This impression is sent to a dental laboratory where the permanent crown will be made. Finally, the finished crown is cemented onto the prepared and reshaped tooth.
Longevity and Replacement
With the right kind of attention, dental crowns might stay put for a whole decade or more; in fact, some have even been known to hang in there for over 15 years. Still, though they’re certainly a successful fix when it comes to bettering a smile, sooner or later most will need replacing.
Dental Crowns: Care
It is very important that patients consistently practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing their teeth every day and by regularly (approximately every six months) visiting their dentist for check-ups. Crowns can last a very long time if they are taken care of properly, and most dentists consider the durability of the materials used in crowns to be as good as or better than that of natural teeth. Still, it is possible for problems to develop, and patients should be aware of this possibility and alert to any signs of trouble.
Risks or Side Effects
Dental crown procedures are generally safe, but there may be some risks like tooth sensitivity or the need for additional dental work if the tooth’s condition worsens.
Cosmetic and Functional Uses
Dental crowns serve both cosmetic and functional purposes, providing both aesthetic improvement and restoring the functionality of damaged teeth.
Insurance Coverage and Costs
Insurance coverage for dental crowns varies depending on the individual insurance plan and the reason for the crown placement. Costs can differ based on the material used and the location of the dental practice. Patients should check with us and insurance provider for specific details.