When you suffer from tooth decay or damage, your dentist will recommend restoring it to regain its structure and functionality. Over the past decades, restorative dentistry has come a long way in helping dentists treat teeth with compromised structures. Dental crowns are one such revolutionary restoration that is gaining traction.
Attleborough Falls family dentist and their team provide comprehensive dental care to patients by providing premium-quality crowns to restore your oral health.
What is a dental crown?
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that is placed over a tooth that is severely decayed or damaged. This helps restore its shape, size, and strength to improve its overall appearance. The crown is customized according to the impressions taken, which, when cemented into place, will fully engulf the visible portion of the tooth at and above the gum line.
Why is a dental crown needed?
A dental crown may be needed for the following reasons:
- To protect a severely damaged, weak tooth from breaking
- To hold together parts of a cracked tooth
- To restore an already broken tooth
- To restore a severely worn-down tooth
- To cover and support a tooth with a large filling
- To hold a dental bridge in place
- To cover an extremely discolored tooth
- To cover a dental implant
- To make any aesthetic modifications to the tooth
What are the types of dental crowns available?
Crowns are of several types based on the material used. These include the following:
- Stainless steel crown
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- Often used as a temporary crown in adults.
- But most commonly used for children to fit over the primary tooth.
- These are more cost-effective.
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- Metal crown
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- These include alloys that have high content of gold or platinum or base-metal alloys (cobalt-chromium, or nickel-chromium).
- These offer excellent durability and resistance to strong forces.
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- Porcelain fused to metal crown
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- These crowns consist of an inner layer of metal coated with a layer of porcelain.
- These are often recommended for long bridges where metal is needed for strength.
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- All resin crown
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- These are made up of less fracture-resistant material and are cost-effective.
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- All ceramic or all-porcelain crown
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- These crowns are aesthetically superior and the most preferred.
- These can be successfully used for both front and back teeth.
Summary
Dental crowns can restore worn, damaged, or decayed teeth successfully. There are several types of crowns, depending on the material. You can choose what is best for you based on your budget, personal preference, and oral health goals. With proper oral hygiene practices, dental crowns can last up to 15 years.
