If you’re looking to improve your smile with dental crowns, you need to make sure that you’re choosing the best option for you. In this article, we’ll help you understand the different types of crowns available and what criteria should be considered when choosing the right one for your needs. Read on to find out more!
Introduction to Dental Crowns
If you’re considering dental crowns, you’re not alone. According to the American Dental Association, about one in every five adults in the U.S. has at least one dental crown. A dental crown is a “cap” that covers a tooth. It’s used to restore a tooth’s shape and size, strength, and appearance.
Dental crowns are made of different materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of these materials. Your dentist will work with you to choose the best material for your needs based on the location of the tooth being crowned and your aesthetic preferences.
Porcelain and ceramic crowns are very popular because they can be matched to the color of your natural teeth. Metal crowns are usually used for back teeth because they’re stronger than porcelain or ceramic crowns and less likely to wear down over time from chewing. However, metal crowns are visible when you open your mouth, so if esthetics are important to you, you may want to consider another option.
If you’re getting a dental crown for a front tooth, your dentist may recommend a porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crown because it offers both strength and esthetics. PFM crowns have a metal core that’s covered with porcelain on the outside. The metal makes the PFM crown more durable while the porcelain provides a more natural look.
Benefits of Dental Crowns
There are many benefits of dental crowns. They can help to protect your teeth from further damage, they can improve the appearance of your smile, and they can make it easier to keep your teeth clean.
Dental crowns can also help to preserve the natural tooth structure. When a tooth is damaged, it is often necessary to remove some of the healthy tooth tissue in order to repair it. This can weaken the tooth and make it more susceptible to future damage. By placing a dental crown over the damaged tooth, you can help to protect it from further harm.
In addition, dental crowns can improve the appearance of your smile. If you have a tooth that is misshapen or discolored, a dental crown can cover up these imperfections and give you a more uniform, attractive smile.
Finally, dental crowns can make it easier to keep your teeth clean. When you have a crowned tooth, there is less surface area for plaque and bacteria to attach to. This means that your crowned teeth will be less likely to develop cavities or other problems over time.
Types of Dental Crowns
When it comes to dental crowns, there are three main types: porcelain, ceramic, and metal. Each type has its own set of pros and cons, so it’s important to consult with your dentist to see which one is right for you.
Porcelain dental crowns are the most popular type because they look the most natural. They can be matched to the color of your existing teeth, making them virtually indistinguishable. Porcelain is also a very strong material, so you don’t have to worry about it breaking or chipping. However, porcelain crowns are also the most expensive option.
Ceramic dental crowns are a good middle ground between porcelain and metal crowns. They are not as expensive as porcelain, but they still look fairly natural. Ceramic is also a strong material, although not quite as strong as porcelain. One downside of ceramic crowns is that they can sometimes be difficult to match to the color of your existing teeth.
Metal dental crowns are the least expensive option, but they are also the least attractive. Metal crowns are made from gold or stainless steel, and they can stand out against your other teeth. Metal crowns are also the strongest type of crown, so they are a good choice if you have a history of breaking or chipping teeth.
Considerations When Choosing a Dental Crown
When you are considering dental crowns, there are many factors to take into account in order to choose the best option for your smile. Some of the things you should consider include:
The material the crown is made from: There are many different materials that dental crowns can be made from, including porcelain, ceramic, and even metal. Each type of material has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to consult with your dentist to determine which type of crown is right for you.
The color of the crown: Depending on the material the crown is made from, it can be stained or colored to match your natural teeth. If you want your dental crowns to be as invisible as possible, then choosing a color that closely resembles your natural tooth color is a good option.
The size and shape of the crown: The size and shape of the dental crown will also affect its appearance. Make sure to discuss your options with your dentist so that you can choose a size and shape that looks natural with your smile.
The price of the dental crown: Dental Crowns can vary significantly in price, so it’s important to consult with your dentist about what you can afford. There are many financing options available for dental work, so don’t let cost deter you from getting the smile you’ve always wanted.
Process and Cost of Getting a Dental Crown
There are a few different types of dental crowns, and the process and cost of getting each type may vary. The most common type of dental crown is the porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crown. PFM crowns are made of a metal alloy base with a porcelain overlay. They are strong and durable, and can be color matched to your natural teeth. The downside to PFM crowns is that the metal alloy base can sometimes show through the porcelain, giving the tooth an unnatural appearance. Porcelain crowns are made entirely of porcelain and are less likely to show any metal at the gum line. They are also more expensive than PFM crowns.
The process of getting a dental crown usually takes two visits to the dentist. During the first visit, the tooth will be prepared for the crown by removing any decay or damaged tissue. An impression will be made of the tooth, which will be used to create the custom crown. A temporary crown will be placed over the prepared tooth until your next appointment.
At your second appointment, the temporary crown will be removed and replaced with your custom-made dental crown. The dentist will make sure that the fit and appearance of the new crown is satisfactory before permanently bonding it in place. The entire process usually takes about two weeks from start to finish.
Conclusion
Choosing the right dental crowns for your smile is an important decision. With the right guidance, you can make sure that you select a type of crown that suits your needs and will give you a beautiful, natural looking smile. Consider consulting with your dentist to determine which type of dental crown would be best suited for you and discuss the various options available. By doing so, you’ll be able to ensure that not only do your new dental crowns look great but they also last longer and offer greater protection from decay and damage caused by wear-and-tear or accidental trauma.
FAQs
Q: What are dental crowns?
A: A dental crown is a tooth-shaped “cap” that is placed over a tooth to cover and protect it. Crowns can be made from different materials, such as porcelain, metal, or ceramic.
Q: Why might I need a dental crown?
A: There are several reasons why your dentist may recommend a dental crown, including:
- To protect a weak or damaged tooth from breaking
- To support a tooth with a large filling when there isn’t much tooth left
- To hold together parts of a cracked tooth
- To cover and improve the appearance of a misshapen or discolored tooth
- To cover and support a dental implant
Q: How long do dental crowns last?
A: With proper care, your dental crown should last for many years. However, eventually the crowned tooth may need to be re-treated or replaced.
Q: How can I take care of my dental crown?
A: It’s important to practice good oral hygiene habits even if you have dental crowns. Be sure to brush twice daily and floss regularly to remove plaque and bacteria from around your teeth and gums. You should also visit your dentist every six months for professional cleanings and checkups.
