Crowns
When it comes to restoring damaged teeth or following certain corrective dental treatments, dental crowns are often recommended by dental professionals. Also known as caps, dental crowns offer a long-lasting and durable solution for individuals with significantly damaged teeth.
Benefits of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns offer several long-term benefits for individuals seeking restorative dental treatments. One of the key advantages of dental crowns is their durability. Made from materials like porcelain or zirconia, dental crowns are designed to withstand the forces of grinding or clenching, making them suitable for individuals with these habits. Additionally, dental crowns are customized to match the appearance of your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless and natural smile.
Why You Need a Dental Crown
There are several reasons why your dentist may recommend a dental crown. Dental crowns are commonly placed in cases of advanced tooth decay where a filling might not be sufficient to restore the tooth. They are also used to treat cracked or broken teeth, worn or misshapen teeth, and protect them after root canal therapy. By covering the entire natural tooth, dental crowns provide a protective barrier, preserving the structural integrity of your smile.
Reduced Risk of Fracture
While every dental treatment carries some degree of risk, composite fillings have been shown to have a reduced risk of fracture compared to amalgam metal fillings. The flexibility of composite material allows it to absorb and distribute the pressure exerted during biting and chewing, minimizing the likelihood of tooth fracture. On the other hand, metal fillings can put more stress on the tooth, increasing the risk of cracks and fractures over time. By choosing composite fillings, you can help safeguard the long-term health and durability of your restored tooth.
The Dental Crown Procedure
Getting a dental crown typically involves two visits to the dentist's office. During the first visit, your dentist will prepare the tooth for the crown. This involves reshaping the tooth to ensure a proper fit for the crown. The area around the tooth will be numbed beforehand to ensure your comfort. After preparation, an impression of your teeth will be taken and sent to a lab to create a model of your teeth. In the meantime, a temporary crown will be placed to protect your prepared tooth. During the second visit, the permanent crown will be attached to your tooth using a resin or permanent cement.
Types of Dental Crowns
There are several types of dental crowns available, each with its own advantages and considerations. The choice of crown material depends on personal preferences, oral health needs, and budget.
- Metal Crowns are made from gold, palladium, nickel, or chromium. They are known for their durability and resistance to chipping or breaking. However, the metallic color may not be aesthetically pleasing for some individuals, making metal crowns more suitable for back molars.
- Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns combine the strength of metal with the natural appearance of porcelain. The porcelain coating can match the shade of your natural teeth, providing a more natural look. However, the porcelain coating may chip off over time, revealing the metal underneath.
- Pressed Ceramic Crowns have a hard ceramic inner core with layers of porcelain on top. They mimic the translucency of natural tooth enamel and are suitable for both front and back teeth. However, like PFM crowns, the layers of ceramic can chip away over time.
- All-Ceramic or Porcelain Crowns offer the most natural appearance, resembling natural tooth enamel. They are a good choice for individuals with metal allergies. Zirconia crowns, a popular option, are extremely durable and can withstand heavy forces while being gentle on opposing teeth.
- Same-Day Dental Crowns. With technological advancements, some dentists offer same-day crowns using CAD/CAM technology. This allows for creating crowns in-office, eliminating the need for multiple visits. The process involves taking digital impressions of your teeth and using a milling machine to create the crown from a solid ceramic block.
- All-Resin Crowns are less expensive but more prone to breaking than other types. They are often used as temporary crowns and have a shorter lifespan compared to other materials.
- Emergency Dental Crowns. Sometimes, a dental crown may be needed as an emergency treatment. This can occur when a tooth is severely damaged or fractured due to trauma or injury. In such situations, seeking immediate dental care is crucial to prevent further complications and preserve the tooth.
St. Louis Urgent Dental Group specializes in providing emergency dental care, including the placement of dental crowns, to help restore your smile and alleviate any pain or discomfort.
Caring for Your Dental Crown
Proper care and maintenance are essential to ensure the longevity of your dental crown. Maintaining good oral hygiene practices is important, including brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and attending regular dental check-ups. Avoiding hard or sticky foods and refraining from habits such as teeth grinding or chewing on non-food objects can also help prolong the lifespan of your dental crown.
Dental crowns are a versatile and effective restorative treatment option for individuals with damaged or compromised teeth. Whether it's for addressing advanced tooth decay, protecting a cracked tooth, or improving the appearance of your smile, dental crowns offer long-lasting durability and a natural-looking result. If you require a dental crown, it is important to consult with a dental professional, such as St. Louis Urgent Dental Group, who can provide personalized care and guide you through the process to restore your oral health and enhance your smile.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment and experience the difference of personalized urgent dental care.