What are Dental Crowns and When are They Needed?
If you’ve ever had a severely damaged or decayed tooth, you may have heard your dentist mention dental crowns. These restorative treatments are commonly used in modern dentistry to help protect, preserve, and improve the function of compromised teeth.
Understanding what they are and when they’re needed can help you make informed decisions about your oral health.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is essentially a tooth-shaped “cap” that is placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Once cemented into place, it fully encases the visible portion of the tooth above the gum line. Crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, resin, or a combination of these. The type of crown your dentist recommends will depend on several factors including the location of the tooth, the extent of damage, and your personal preferences.
Why Are Dental Crowns Used?
Dental crowns serve multiple purposes in both restorative and cosmetic dentistry. Here are some of the most common situations in which a crown might be necessary:
1. Protecting a Weakened Tooth
Teeth weakened by decay, large fillings, or trauma may be at risk of cracking or breaking. A crown adds a layer of protection, helping to keep the tooth intact.
2. Restoring a Broken or Severely Worn Tooth
When a tooth is already cracked or worn down—perhaps from grinding or an injury—a crown can restore its original shape and function.
3. Covering and Supporting a Tooth with a Large Filling
If a tooth has a large filling and not much natural tooth structure remains, a crown can provide additional support to prevent fractures.
4. Holding a Dental Bridge in Place
Crowns are used to anchor a dental bridge, which replaces one or more missing teeth. The crowns are placed on the natural teeth on either side of the gap.
5. Covering Misshapen or Severely Discolored Teeth
Crowns can be used cosmetically to improve the appearance of teeth that are misshapen or discolored and resistant to whitening.
6. Protecting a Tooth After a Root Canal
After a root canal treatment, the tooth becomes more brittle. A crown is often placed to protect the tooth from damage.
Types of Dental Crowns
Each material used for dental crowns has its pros and cons. Here’s a quick look at the most common types:
- Porcelain or Ceramic Crowns: Ideal for front teeth as they closely mimic the natural tooth color.
- Metal Crowns (Gold or Alloy): Extremely durable and less likely to wear down over time, but more noticeable.
- Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM): Offers a balance of strength and aesthetics, though the metal can sometimes show at the gum line.
- Resin Crowns: Less expensive but wear down more quickly and are more prone to fractures.
Your dentist will help you choose the best option based on the tooth’s location and your individual needs.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Getting a dental crown typically involves two visits:
- First Visit – Preparation: The dentist will examine the tooth, take X-rays, and file it down to make room for the crown. An impression is taken and sent to a lab. You’ll receive a temporary crown while the permanent one is being made.
- Second Visit – Placement: The temporary crown is removed, and the permanent crown is fitted and cemented in place after checking for fit, shape, and color.
In some cases, same-day crowns can be created using CAD/CAM technology, which eliminates the need for a second visit.
Caring for Your Dental Crown
Although crowns are durable, they still require proper care. Follow these tips to prolong their life:
- Brush and floss regularly to prevent decay and gum disease.
- Avoid chewing ice or hard foods that can crack the crown.
- See your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings.
With good oral hygiene and regular dental visits, a crown can last between 5 to 15 years, or even longer.
