Teeth have functional and aesthetic purpose. Healthy teeth enhance your smile and self-confidence. They also allow you to chew foods properly and keep the symmetry of your jaw.
Today, there are a variety of restorative dentistry treatments to help the patient regain the function of their teeth and the beauty of their smiles.
If the tooth is cracked, infected, or decayed, it may need a dental crown to repair it.
What is a dental crown?
A dental crown is a cap that resembles the shape of the tooth. It is placed over the tooth to cover it and to restore the shape, size, function, and appearance. The visible tooth portion is fully encased by the crown once it is cemented in place.
When do you need a dental crown?
A dental crown is needed in the following situations:
- To protect the real tooth from breaking. It holds the parts of the cracked tooth together.
- If the tooth is already broken, the dental crown can help fix it.
- A tooth with a large filling can be covered and supported by a dental crown.
- To cover mis-shapen teeth
- To cover a severely discolored tooth.
- To hold a dental bridge in place.
- To cover a dental implant.
- For cosmetic modification.
- If a child’s tooth is at high risk for tooth decay, a dental crown can be used to protect it.
What are the different types of dental crowns?
- Metal dental crowns – Crowns can be made up of base metals, such as chromium and nickel, which are highly resistant to corrosion, making for a very strong crown. They require the least amount of healthy tooth to be removed before fitting. Gold alloy crowns are a mix of gold, copper and other metals, which provide a strong bond to the tooth, don’t fracture and do not wear away the tooth itself.
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal dental crowns – This crown provides a stronger bond than all-porcelain crowns because it is connected to a metal structure. It is also extremely durable and can be colour-matched to your adjacent teeth. They look like real teeth and are an ideal choice for front or back teeth.
- All-resin dental crowns –This type of dental crown is less expensive, but easily wears down and is prone to fractures. Hence, it shouldn’t be used for permanent crowns.
- All-porcelain dental crown – if you have metal allergies, the best dental crown is the one made from all porcelain. It will be made to match the colour of your natural teeth and is a good choice for front teeth.
What is a porcelain crown?
A porcelain crown improves your dental function. It is aesthetically pleasing too as it is. colour matched to precisely the same colour as your natural teeth. Your dentist will match your porcelain crown to the colour, shape and lustre of your natural teeth, ensuring it blends in with the rest of your mouth.
What are the main benefits of a porcelain crown?
- Your dentist will no longer need to remove the tooth structure just to place the crown in place.
- It helps preserve a healthy tooth structure
- It is less abrasive as compared with other types of dental crowns.
- It looks natural as the materials used in a porcelain crown match the colour, shape, and durability of the teeth. It is the secret to a natural and beautiful smile.
- It helps to restore the function of your tooth, reinforcing a natural bite and improving your smile.
- It looks like a real tooth and is highly durable too. Hence, your mouth can be back to its natural state.
- It will feel natural. It will be difficult for others to tell that your tooth is porcelain because it looks and feels natural. Porcelain crowns match the contour of your mouth and teeth.
How to know if you can have a porcelain crown?
Are you planning to have a porcelain crown? There are a few certain criteria to meet for you to be cleared to undergo such a procedure:
- To place the porcelain crown, a supporting structure is needed. You need to have some remaining tooth or else there will be no structure to support the crown. Dentists usually build the tooth up with a dental filling for it to hold the crown in place.
- You should have a good oral hygiene. Your mouth and teeth should be healthy. If you are suffering from gum disease, it could interfere with the placement of the crown.
- You should not suffer from bruxism or grinding of the teeth and clenching of the jaw. If you have bruxism, the new porcelain crown will be prone to damage.
To find out if you are a good candidate for a dental crown, specifically porcelain crown, you have to consult a dentist. Your dentist will check your tooth and its surrounding structure, will take x-ray pictures and will review your dental records. After a thorough examination, your dentist will discuss the best option for you with consideration of your health, cosmetic and financial needs.
Your dental health is important. Do not take it for granted. Make it a habit to attend regular check-ups with your dentist and look after your dental and general health. Do not underestimate the importance of regular dental visits, and ensure your dentist is experienced and highly reputable. It is important to restore your teeth, not only for aesthetics but also for a functional purpose too.
