Dental crowns are a common and effective solution for restoring damaged or decayed teeth. At Boger Dental, we specialize in providing high-quality dental crowns that enhance your smile’s functionality and aesthetics. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the dental crown procedure, explore the different types of dental crowns, highlight the benefits, and discuss the dental crown lifespan to help you determine if they are a permanent solution for your dental needs.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers a damaged or decayed tooth, restoring its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are designed to encase the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gum line, providing protection and support while blending seamlessly with your natural teeth.
When Are Dental Crowns Needed?
Dental crowns are used in various situations, including:
- Restoring a damaged tooth: Crowns can repair teeth that are cracked, chipped, or severely worn down.
- Protecting a weakened tooth: A crown can add strength to teeth weakened by decay, large fillings, or root canal therapy.
- Improving aesthetics: Crowns can enhance the appearance of misshapen, discolored, or poorly aligned teeth.
- Supporting a dental bridge: Crowns are used to anchor dental bridges, filling gaps left by missing teeth.
- Covering a dental implant: Crowns are placed on top of dental implants to replace missing teeth.
Types of Dental Crowns
There are several types of dental crowns, each with unique characteristics and benefits. The choice of crown depends on the specific needs and preferences of the patient.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns combine the strength of a metal base with the natural appearance of a porcelain exterior. These crowns are durable and offer excellent aesthetics, making them a popular choice for both front and back teeth. However, the metal base can sometimes create a dark line at the gum line, especially if the gums recede over time.
All-porcelain or All-Ceramic Crowns
All-porcelain or all-ceramic crowns provide the most natural appearance and are an excellent choice for front teeth. They are metal-free, making them suitable for patients with metal allergies. While they offer superior aesthetics, metal-based crowns may be weaker and more prone to chipping.
Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia crowns are made from a robust and durable material called zirconium dioxide. They offer a natural appearance and excellent strength and are highly resistant to wear and fracture. Zirconia crowns are a great option for both front and back teeth and are especially beneficial for patients who need added strength due to grinding or clenching.
Gold Crowns
Gold crowns are made from a gold alloy, offering exceptional durability and biocompatibility. They are highly resistant to wear and corrosion, making them an excellent choice for back teeth where strength is a priority. However, due to their metallic appearance, gold crowns are less popular for visible front teeth.
Stainless Steel Crowns
Stainless steel crowns are prefabricated crowns commonly used as a temporary solution for children’s primary teeth or as a temporary crown while a permanent one is being made. They are cost-effective and provide good protection but are not typically used for permanent restorations in adults.
Dental Crown Procedure
The dental crown procedure typically involves two visits to the dentist. Here’s a step-by-step overview of what you can expect during the process:
First Visit: Preparation and Impression
- Examination and Consultation: Your dentist will examine the affected tooth and take X-rays to assess the extent of the damage. They will discuss the best type of crown for your needs and answer any questions you may have.
- Tooth Preparation: The dentist will numb the area around the tooth and remove any decay or damaged portions. The tooth is then shaped to create space for the crown. If a large portion of the tooth is missing, a filling material may be used to build up the tooth structure.
- Impression: Once the tooth is prepared, an impression of the tooth and surrounding teeth is taken using a dental putty or digital scanner. This impression is sent to a dental lab to create your custom crown.
- Temporary Crown: A temporary crown is placed over the prepared tooth to protect it while the permanent crown is being made. Temporary crowns are usually made from acrylic or stainless steel.
Second Visit: Crown Placement
- Temporary Crown Removal: The temporary crown is removed, and the prepared tooth is cleaned.
- Fit and Adjust: The dentist will place the permanent crown over the prepared tooth and check its fit, shape, and color. Any necessary adjustments are made to ensure a comfortable and precise fit.
- Cementation: Once the fit is perfect, the crown is permanently cemented in place using a special dental adhesive. The dentist will check your bite and make final adjustments to ensure proper alignment and comfort.
Dental Crown Benefits
Dental crowns offer numerous benefits that make them an excellent choice for restoring and enhancing your smile:
Restores Functionality
Crowns restore the functionality of damaged or weakened teeth, allowing you to bite and chew with confidence.
Enhances Aesthetics
Dental crowns can significantly improve the appearance of your teeth, providing a natural and attractive smile. They are customized to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth.
Provides Durability
Crowns are made from solid and durable materials that can withstand the forces of biting and chewing. With proper care, they can last for many years.
Protects the Tooth
A crown encases the entire visible portion of the tooth, protecting it from further damage, decay, and wear.
Reduces Sensitivity
Crowns can help reduce tooth sensitivity by covering exposed dentin and protecting the tooth from temperature changes and irritants.
Dental Crown Lifespan
The lifespan of dental crowns varies depending on several factors, including the type of crown, its location, oral hygiene habits, and lifestyle. On average, dental crowns last 10 to 15 years, but with proper care, some can last even longer.
Factors Affecting Dental Crown Lifespan
- Material: Different materials have different durability levels. For example, gold and zirconia crowns tend to last longer than all-porcelain crowns.
- Location: Crowns on back teeth experience more pressure from chewing and grinding, which can affect their lifespan.
- Oral Hygiene: Good oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing regularly, can help extend the life of your crown by preventing decay and gum disease.
- Lifestyle Habits: Avoiding habits like teeth grinding, chewing on ice, and using your teeth as tools can help prevent damage to your crown.
Tips for Extending the Lifespan of Your Dental Crown
- Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are essential for monitoring the condition of your crown and addressing any issues early on.
- Avoid Hard Foods: Refrain from chewing on hard foods, ice, or objects that can damage your crown.
- Wear a Mouthguard: If you grind your teeth at night or play contact sports, wearing a mouthguard can protect your crown from damage.
Conclusion: Are Dental Crowns a Permanent Solution?
While dental crowns are not technically permanent, they are a long-lasting and reliable solution for restoring and protecting damaged teeth. With proper care and maintenance, dental crowns can provide many years of functionality and aesthetic enhancement.
At Boger Dental, we are committed to helping you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile with our high-quality dental crown treatments. If you have any questions about the dental crown procedure, the different types of dental crowns, or the dental crown benefits, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Our experienced team is here to provide personalized care and ensure the best possible results for your dental needs.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, visit our website or call our office. Discover the transformative power of dental crowns and take the first step towards a healthier, more confident smile.