Dental crowns are sometimes used to restore the function and appearance of a tooth that has been damaged, but they aren't always required. Our Summerland dentists explain why it is the best option when it is.
What are dental crowns?
A dental crown is a hollow cap that is placed over a damaged or decayed tooth to give it a natural, healthy appearance. The crown will protect the tooth and restore its function while also protecting it from further damage. A dental crown can also be used to cover discoloured or misshapen teeth.
Types of Crowns
Crowns can be made from a variety of dental materials, depending on the type of tooth and the location of the crown in your mouth.
Porcelain Crowns
These materials are the most lifelike on the market, closely resembling the translucency and colour of natural teeth. They are, however, less durable than other materials and are prone to chipping. As a result, they're only used to replace teeth in a minority of cases.
Composite Crowns
Another material that closely resembles natural teeth in appearance is composite crowns. They are more resistant to chipping than porcelain, but they do wear down and stain easily.
Metal Crowns
These are made of gold and are quite strong. They do not wear down or stain like composite crowns, but they do not look natural, particularly on front teeth.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns
The appearance of these crowns is more natural than that of porcelain or composite crowns. They are chip and stain resistant, but due to their placement and construction, the metal may show through.
The Process
In most cases, a dental crown requires two visits to our office. Your dentist will administer a local anesthetic during your first visit.
To make room for the crown, your damaged tooth will be filed down and an impression taken. This will be used to make your restoration because it will be custom-fitted to your tooth.
Until the permanent crown is ready, a temporary crown will be used. Your dentist will remove the temporary restoration and replace it with your new permanent dental crown at your next appointment, cementing it in place.
When are dental crowns the best solution?
In some cases, crowns are not the best option, and your dentist will advise you on which procedure is best for you. The issues listed below, on the other hand, are common and will almost certainly necessitate the use of a dental crown to resolve.
Best Situations for a Dental Crown
- Large cavities that can't be repaired with a dental filling
- To cover a tooth that has had a root canal
- To prevent weakened teeth from breaking
- To hold together a cracked tooth
- To restore a broken tooth
- To provide support to a dental bridge
- To conceal misshapen teeth
- To cover dental implants
- To disguise discoloured teeth that won't respond to teeth whitening