What is a Tooth Crown?
A dental crown, resembling a small cap shaped like a tooth, is a dental restoration. This specialized and durable solution addresses multiple dental concerns, such as tooth sensitivity, decay, and fractured teeth. A dental crown can enhance the tooth’s size, shape, and overall appearance, providing a comprehensive and lasting repair.
What Are the Various Types of Dental Crowns Available?
There are four primary types of crown materials: metal, ceramic, ceramic, and porcelain. Each type offers a slightly different approach to repairing damaged and decayed teeth.
- Metal Crowns – Crowns can be made from various metals such as platinum, copper, cobalt-chromium, nickel-chromium, and gold. Metal crowns are highly durable and do not cause wear on adjacent teeth, making them ideal for molar replacements. Additionally, they are the preferred choice for the back of the mouth as they remain inconspicuous when you smile.
- Metal Ceramic Crowns – The combination of metal and porcelain forms the foundation of metal-ceramic crowns. By incorporating porcelain, these crowns achieve a lifelike appearance while retaining the strength characteristic of metal crowns. They are popular among patients seeking the durability of metal crowns without the metallic look. These crowns are also referred to as porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns.
- Ceramic Crowns – Ceramic crowns provide the closest color match to natural teeth, making them an excellent choice for patients seeking a natural-looking restoration. Additionally, individuals with metal allergies may find ceramic crowns a suitable alternative.
- Porcelain Crowns – Porcelain crowns are crafted to restore your teeth to their natural appearance. Unlike metal crowns, these dental crowns prioritize aesthetic benefits, closely resembling your real teeth for a seamless and lifelike restoration.
How do teeth crowns work?
Typically, the process of getting a dental crown requires two dentist visits. During the first session, the tooth is prepared, and an impression is taken. Then, in the subsequent appointment, your permanent crown is carefully placed and fitted to ensure a proper and comfortable fit. Here’s a breakdown of the procedure.
1. During your first appointment, your dentist may take several X-rays of your teeth to assess the condition of the bone and roots that will support the crowns. If any severe decay, periodontal disease, infection, or tooth pulp damage is detected, your dentist might perform an endodontic therapy or root canal procedure. However, if the tooth can be saved and is otherwise healthy, your dentist may remove only the decaying portion and then place a crown rather than replacing the entire tooth.
- During the following procedures, you won’t experience any discomfort because the tooth and the surrounding gum tissue will be fully numb from the effects of the anesthetic.
- To achieve a precise fit, your dentist will prepare the tooth by removing its outer layer. Suppose a considerable portion of the tooth is missing due to decay or injury. In that case, a filling material will be used to rebuild the tooth, providing a sturdy foundation to support the crown.
- Afterward, a paste or putty will be used to make a dental impression of the prepared tooth, or in modern CAD/CAM dentistry, a digital scanner will be utilized for this purpose. This impression ensures that your bite will not be affected by the crown. The impression is then sent to the dental lab for the crown’s fabrication. While waiting for your permanent crown to be ready (usually takes one to three weeks), you will be provided with a temporary crown.
2. During your second appointment, your dentist will remove the temporary crown and carefully inspect the color and fit of the permanent crown. If the crown seamlessly blends with your smile, an anesthetic will be administered to ensure a comfortable and secure placement of the new crown.
How Does a Tooth Crown Look Like?
Dental crowns are placed over a carefully prepared natural tooth, taking on the shape of a hollow, tooth-shaped “cap.” Once securely anchored, these crowns cover the entire visible portion of the tooth at and above the gum line.
Dental crowns are a remarkable and durable solution for protecting and enhancing your smile. Whether you’re dealing with tooth sensitivity, decay, fractures, or missing teeth, dental crowns offer a permanent and custom-made replacement. With various types of crowns available, including metal, metal ceramic, ceramic, and porcelain, there’s a perfect fit for every individual. Dr. Jacob Vayner‘s extensive expertise in dental crown procedures ensures top-notch care and precise planning for your treatment. So, if you’re in Reseda and looking for the best dental crown treatment, schedule an appointment with us at Esthetic Smile Dental Care. Let us help you achieve a beautiful and healthy smile with our exceptional dental crown services.
