If you’ve never had a dental crown before, you may be curious about what they are and how they work. Dental crowns help restore the natural shape and strength of your teeth. They’re a restorative dental treatment used to strengthen weak teeth that may have deep cracks.
We’re going to share what dental crowns do, why you may need one, the different types of crowns, and their benefits. If you’re searching for a “dentist near me” on Google, consulting a dentist in Richardson, TX, can help you better understand the importance of dental crowns for your oral health.
What are dental crowns?
A dental crown is a restorative cap that covers a tooth. It is used to protect weak enamel and to reinforce the tooth. It’s commonly used after root canals, over large fillings, or for teeth with heavy wear or deep cracks.
Think of a dental crown as a protective shell that goes on top of your natural tooth. It seals out bacteria, helps your bite line up, and reduces the chance of fractures or sensitivity.
Reasons you may need a dental crown
Why would someone need a dental crown? There are a few cases in which dental crowns are an ideal option, including when you:
- Want to protect a damaged or cracked tooth
- Have sensitivity or pain when chewing
- Have cosmetic concerns about your smile
- Want to strengthen a weak tooth
- Want to cover a dental implant
- Want to cover stained or discolored tooth
- Want to cover a root canal-treated tooth
Types of dental crowns
There are different types of dental crowns available. Let’s delve into their similarities and differences.
Metal crowns
Fully metal crowns are typically made from gold, palladium, nickel, or chromium.1 The benefit of a metal crown is its longevity. It’s generally the longest-lasting type of crown and rarely chip or break.
Many people choose metal crowns for teeth that are out of sight, such as molars, due to the metallic appearance.
Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns
This type of crown combines the strength and durability of metal with the natural appearance of porcelain. Dentists can even match the porcelain shade to your teeth for a seamless look.
Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns are used to restore both back and front teeth. However, they sometimes experience wear, with the porcelain chipping off to reveal the metal underneath.
Ceramic or porcelain crowns
Ceramic or porcelain crowns are similar in appearance to natural tooth enamel. They mimic natural teeth well and are popular for their aesthetics. People with metal allergies also benefit from fully ceramic or porcelain crowns. These types of crowns are gentle on the enamel of opposing teeth.
Zirconia crowns
Dental crowns made of zirconia are known for their durability and longevity. A dental trial found that zirconia crowns were just as durable as metal crowns over the course of five years.2
This type of crown is also biocompatible, meaning there’s a lower likelihood of the body producing an inflammatory response. Moreover, many dental offices can do same-day zirconia crown procedures and make the crowns in-office.
What happens during a dental crown procedure?
The dental crown procedure usually follows this process:
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Tooth prep
First, the damage or decay is removed from your tooth, so the crown fits comfortably and securely.
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Impressions or digital scan
Next, your dentist will get an impression or a digital scan of your bite to ensure your crown fits naturally with your smile.
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Temporary crown placement
Oftentimes, the lab will need to make your custom crown, and same-day service may not be available. In this case, a temporary crown is placed to protect your tooth while the permanent crown is made.
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Permanent crown placement
At your next appointment, your dentist will remove the temporary crown and then cement the permanent crown, ensuring a comfortable fit.
The benefits of dental crowns
Dental crowns have many benefits for patients, including:
- Prolonging the life of a natural tooth
- Improving chewing function
- Protecting worn or decayed teeth
- Enhancing your smile
- Protecting your teeth from erosion
Consult with a dentist in Richardson, TX
If you think you may benefit from a dental crown, give your dentist a call to schedule an appointment. They’ll be able to assess your teeth and share whether a crown is an appropriate solution.