Dental crowns play a crucial role in modern dentistry. They help restore the function and appearance of damaged teeth. Dr. Canatella may place a dental crown to treat tooth decay, a chipped or cracked tooth, or to replace a tooth with a dental implant.
What Are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a cap that covers a damaged tooth. Dentists use crowns to restore the tooth’s shape, size, and strength. Crowns can also improve the tooth’s appearance. Dentists recommend crowns for several reasons:
- Protect a weak tooth from breaking
- Restore a broken or worn-down tooth
- Cover and support a tooth with a large filling
- Hold a dental bridge in place
- Cover misshapen or discolored teeth
- Cover a dental implant
Crowns are essential for maintaining oral health. When a tooth becomes damaged, it can lead to further complications. These complications include infection and loss of the tooth. Crowns help prevent these issues by providing a protective barrier. They also help maintain the alignment of your teeth. This is important for proper chewing and speaking.
Types of Dental Crowns
Dentists use different materials to make dental crowns. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages.
- Metal Crowns: These crowns last the longest and rarely chip or break. Dentists use metals like gold, palladium, nickel, and chromium. Metal crowns withstand biting and chewing forces well. However, their metallic color makes them less popular for visible teeth.
- Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns: These crowns offer a more natural tooth color. They provide a strong bond because of their metal structure. However, the porcelain part can chip or break.
- All-Ceramic or All-Porcelain Crowns: These crowns offer the best natural color match. They work well for people with metal allergies. However, they are not as strong as metal or porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns.
- Resin Crowns: These crowns are less expensive than other types. However, they wear down over time and are more prone to fractures.
Choosing the right type of crown depends on several factors. These factors include the location of the tooth, the amount of natural tooth remaining, and your personal preferences. Metal crowns work well for molars because they can withstand strong chewing forces. Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns offer a good balance between strength and appearance. All ceramic or all-porcelain crowns provide the best aesthetic results. Resin crowns are a cost-effective option but may not last as long.
The Procedure for Getting a Dental Crown
The process of getting a dental crown usually requires two visits with Dr. Canatella. During the first visit, Dr. Canatella examines and prepares the tooth. We may take X-rays to check the roots and surrounding bone. If the tooth has decay or risk of infection, Dr. Canatella may perform a root canal first. Next, the tooth is numbed and shaped to fit the crown. We will take a dental impression to create a custom crown. A temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth until the permanent crown is ready.
During the second visit, Dr. Canatella removes the temporary crown and checks the fit and color of the permanent crown. If everything looks good, Dr. Canatella numbs the tooth and cements the new crown in place. The temporary crown helps protect the tooth and maintain its function during this time. Following our instructions for caring for the temporary crown is important. Avoid chewing sticky or hard foods, and be gentle when brushing and flossing around the crowned tooth.
Benefits of a Dental Crown
Dental crowns offer many benefits. They can:
- Restore the function of a damaged tooth
- Improve the appearance of a tooth
- Protect a weak tooth from further damage
- Provide support for a tooth with a large filling
- Hold a dental bridge in place
- Cover a dental implant
Crowns play a vital role in maintaining oral health. They help preserve the natural tooth structure and prevent further damage. By covering a damaged tooth, a crown can restore its strength and function. This allows you to chew and speak properly. Crowns also improve the appearance of your teeth. They can cover discoloration, misshapen teeth, and other imperfections. This can boost your confidence and enhance your smile.
Caring for Dental Crowns
Dental crowns require proper care to ensure they last a long time. Proper oral hygiene is essential for maintaining your dental crown. Follow these tips to maintain your crown:
- Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily to remove plaque between your teeth
- Avoid chewing hard foods like ice or hard candy
- Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings
If you grind your teeth at night, talk to our team about getting a night guard. This can help protect your crown and other teeth from damage. Regular dental visits are important for maintaining your crown. When you visit regularly, Dr. Canatella will check the crown and the surrounding teeth for any signs of problems. Professional cleanings help remove plaque and tartar buildup, which can lead to decay and gum disease.