How Dental Crowns Can Protect Your Damaged Teeth?
Dental crowns are one of the most common restorative dental treatments available today. These caps are designed to restore the strength, shape, and function of damaged or weakened teeth. Whether due to decay, trauma, or wear-and-tear, crowns provide a solution to protect your teeth and prevent further damage. We will cover everything you need to know about dental crowns — from types and benefits to the procedure and aftercare. If you’ve been struggling with tooth pain, fractures, or extensive decay, you might find that a dental crown is the right choice for restoring your smile.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers a damaged or weakened tooth. It restores the tooth’s appearance, strength, size, and shape, allowing it to function just like a natural tooth. Crowns can be made from several different materials, including metal alloys, porcelain, porcelain-fused-to-metal, and more, depending on the patient’s needs and the location of the tooth. Crowns are often necessary when a tooth is too damaged to be restored with a filling alone. They offer full protection, keeping the tooth intact while improving its strength and functionality.
Why Are Dental Crowns Used?
Dental crowns are a versatile solution in restorative dentistry. There are several reasons why a dentist might recommend a crown, depending on the condition of your teeth. Let’s dive into some of the most common scenarios that warrant the use of crowns.
To Protect a Weak Tooth
Teeth that are severely worn down, cracked, or weakened by decay are at risk of breaking or becoming further damaged. A crown helps to encase the tooth, preventing any additional damage. This is especially important for teeth that have undergone root canal therapy, as the tooth becomes brittle after the procedure.
To Restore a Severely Decayed Tooth
When a cavity is too large for a filling to restore the tooth properly, a dental crown is the most effective solution. It ensures that the tooth remains functional by protecting it from further decay and physical wear.
To Cover a Tooth After a Root Canal
After a root canal treatment, the tooth is typically left hollow and weak, making it more susceptible to breaking. A crown is placed to cover the tooth, providing protection and restoring its full function.
To Improve the Appearance of Misshapen or Discolored Teeth
Crowns are not just functional but can also enhance the aesthetics of your smile. If you have discolored or misshapen teeth, a crown can be made to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, giving you a more uniform and attractive appearance.
For Large Fillings
When a filling becomes too large or the tooth structure is insufficient to support the filling, a crown can restore the tooth’s structure. Crowns also help prevent fractures and cracks from developing in the remaining tooth structure.
To Protect a Tooth from Further Wear and Tear
Teeth that are severely worn down due to grinding or clenching (often due to stress or bruxism) may need crowns to protect the remaining tooth structure from further damage.
Different Types of Dental Crowns
When it comes to dental crowns, there is no “one size fits all.” The type of crown used depends on several factors, such as the location of the tooth, the extent of damage, and the patient’s preferences. Let’s explore the most common types of dental crowns.
Porcelain Crowns
Porcelain crowns are often the go-to option for teeth that are highly visible in the smile, such as the front teeth. This is because porcelain crowns can be color-matched to blend seamlessly with the natural teeth, offering a highly aesthetic result. Porcelain crowns are durable, but they are more susceptible to chipping or cracking than metal crowns. However, they provide excellent cosmetic results.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns (PFM)
Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns combine the strength of a metal base with the aesthetic qualities of porcelain. These crowns are durable and offer a more natural look compared to full metal crowns. They are commonly used for both front and back teeth and are a popular choice when strength and appearance are both important.
Metal Crowns (Gold or Alloys)
Metal crowns are made from gold, platinum, or other alloys. These crowns are extremely durable, making them ideal for back teeth, where the pressure from chewing is greatest. While metal crowns are not as aesthetic as porcelain, they are strong and can withstand heavy chewing forces. They are often chosen for molars and other teeth that are less visible.
Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia crowns are a newer option in restorative dentistry. Made from a strong, biocompatible material, zirconia crowns are durable, aesthetically pleasing, and resistant to wear and tear. Zirconia crowns are often used for both front and back teeth and are becoming increasingly popular due to their strength and natural appearance.
Resin Crowns
Resin crowns are typically used as a more cost-effective option. They are made from a composite resin material and can be color-matched to natural teeth. While resin crowns are less durable than porcelain or metal crowns, they are often used as temporary crowns or in situations where a permanent crown is not immediately necessary.
The Dental Crown Procedure: What to Expect
Getting a dental crown typically involves two visits to the dentist. While the process is relatively simple, it requires some preparation. Here’s an overview of what to expect during the procedure.
Consultation and Examination
Your dentist will begin with a thorough examination of your tooth. This may involve taking X-rays to assess the extent of the damage or decay. If the tooth is severely damaged, the dentist may recommend a root canal treatment before placing the crown. During this appointment, you will also discuss the best type of crown for your needs.
Tooth Preparation
Once the type of crown is decided, the dentist will prepare your tooth for the crown. This usually involves removing any decayed portions of the tooth and reshaping it to ensure a proper fit for the crown. In some cases, if the tooth is significantly decayed, the dentist may need to build up the tooth with a filling material to create a solid foundation for the crown.
Impressions
After the tooth is prepared, the dentist will take impressions of your tooth. This is typically done using a soft putty-like material or a digital scanner. The impressions are sent to a dental lab where your custom crown will be fabricated. If a temporary crown is needed, the dentist will place one on the tooth until the permanent crown is ready.
Temporary Crown Placement
In many cases, a temporary crown is placed while the permanent crown is being made. Temporary crowns are usually made of resin or acrylic and are not as durable or aesthetic as permanent crowns. However, they provide some protection for the tooth in the interim.
Fitting the Permanent Crown
Once the permanent crown is ready, you will return to the dentist for the final fitting. The dentist will ensure that the crown fits properly, both in terms of shape and bite. If everything looks good, the crown will be permanently cemented onto the tooth.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
Dental crowns are designed to be long-lasting. However, the lifespan of a crown can vary based on the material used, the location of the crown, and how well you care for it. On average, a dental crown can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years, with some lasting even longer with proper maintenance.
Factors that affect the lifespan of dental crowns include:
- Material: Metal crowns tend to last longer than porcelain crowns, while porcelain-fused-to-metal and zirconia crowns offer a good balance between durability and aesthetics.
- Oral Care: Regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental checkups can significantly extend the life of your crown.
- Lifestyle Habits: Habits like grinding your teeth, chewing on hard objects, or smoking can negatively affect the longevity of your dental crown.
- Wear and Tear: The location of the crown (back vs. front teeth) and how much pressure is applied to it during chewing or biting can influence how long it lasts.
Aftercare for Dental Crowns
Once you’ve had a dental crown placed, proper aftercare is crucial for ensuring its longevity and maintaining your oral health. Here are a few tips for taking care of your new crown:
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing daily are essential habits that will help keep your crown in good condition. Be sure to brush gently around the crown to avoid dislodging or damaging it.
Avoid Hard Foods
While crowns are designed to withstand pressure, it’s still a good idea to avoid biting down on hard foods like ice, nuts, or hard candies, as they can crack or damage your crown.
Wear a Mouthguard if You Grind Your Teeth
If you grind your teeth at night, talk to your dentist about getting a mouthguard. Teeth grinding can cause excessive wear on your crowns and lead to damage.
Regular Dental Checkups
Regular checkups with your dentist will help ensure that your crown remains in good shape and that there are no issues with the underlying tooth or surrounding gums. Your dentist can spot any problems early and address them before they become more serious.
Cost of Dental Crowns
The cost of dental crowns varies depending on the material used, the location of the dentist’s practice, and the complexity of the procedure. On average, dental crowns range from $800 to $2,500 per tooth in the United States. Here’s a breakdown of the costs based on material:
- Porcelain crowns: $800 – $3,000 per crown
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns: $1,000 – $2,500 per crown
- Metal crowns (gold or alloys): $1,000 – $2,500 per crown
- Zirconia crowns: $1,000 – $2,500 per crown
Dental insurance may cover part of the cost of a crown, especially if it is deemed medically necessary. Be sure to check with your provider about the coverage options available to you.
Conclusion
Dental crowns provide a reliable, long-lasting solution to protect and restore damaged teeth. Whether you have a cracked tooth, extensive decay, or a cosmetic concern, a dental crown can help you regain your smile’s strength and beauty.
If you’re looking for a trusted Dentist in Springfield, MA, Gorgeous Smiles Dental offers expert crown placement and other restorative treatments to improve your dental health. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing the best care possible, ensuring that you leave our office with a restored smile that looks and feels natural. Contact Gorgeous Smiles Dental for Dental crowns in Springfield, MA today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how dental crowns can protect your teeth and enhance your smile.
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