Dental crowns, often referred to as "caps," are one of the most common dental restorations used to restore a tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are often necessary when a tooth has been severely damaged by decay, trauma, or wear. They provide protection and can restore a tooth’s function, allowing patients to chew, speak, and smile with confidence.

What Are Dental Crowns?

A dental crown is a custom-made "cap" that completely covers a damaged or decayed tooth. Crowns restore the tooth to its original size and shape and are often used to provide strength and protection. They are used when a tooth has been weakened by extensive decay, fractures, or large fillings or if it has undergone a root canal treatment. Crowns encase the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gum line, making the tooth stronger and more durable.

Crowns are made from various materials, including metal, porcelain, porcelain fused to metal, and resin. The choice of material often depends on factors such as the location of the tooth, aesthetic preferences, and the level of strength required.

Types of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns come in several types, each with specific advantages:

• Porcelain Crowns: Porcelain crowns are highly aesthetic and blend seamlessly with natural teeth. They are often used for visible teeth, especially in the front of the mouth, where appearance matters most. Porcelain crowns can be made to match the color and translucency of natural teeth, making them a great option for those seeking a natural look.
• Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns (PFM): PFM crowns combine the strength of metal with the aesthetic appeal of porcelain. The metal base provides durability, while the porcelain covering mimics the look of natural tooth enamel. These crowns are a good option for both front and back teeth, as they offer both strength and appearance, though the metal base may be visible along the gum line in some cases.
• Metal Crowns: Metal crowns are made from alloys such as gold or palladium. While these crowns are incredibly durable and can withstand the forces of chewing, they are not as aesthetically pleasing as porcelain crowns. Metal crowns are typically used for molars and teeth at the back of the mouth, where appearance is less of a concern.
• Resin Crowns: Resin crowns are made from composite materials, offering a more affordable option than porcelain or metal crowns. While they are not as durable as porcelain or metal, resin crowns can still provide an effective solution for restoring damaged teeth. Resin crowns are typically used for temporary crowns or in less critical cases.
• Zirconia Crowns: Zirconia crowns are made from a strong, durable material called zirconium oxide. These crowns are known for their strength, and their aesthetic appeal is similar to porcelain. Zirconia crowns are often used for patients who want the benefits of metal crowns but prefer a more natural-looking appearance.

Benefits of Dental Crowns

• Restoration of Function: Dental crowns restore the function of a tooth, allowing patients to chew, bite, and speak without discomfort. Crowns help ensure that a damaged tooth can withstand the pressure of chewing, which is essential for daily activities.
• Strength and Durability Crowns: provide added strength and stability to weakened teeth. Whether you’re dealing with a cracked, fractured, or extensively decayed tooth, a crown helps to prevent further damage and ensures the tooth remains functional for many years.
• Aesthetic Improvement: Porcelain and porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns provide an aesthetically pleasing result that blends with the natural tooth colour. Crowns can dramatically improve the appearance of discoloured, misshapen, or damaged teeth, boosting self-confidence and creating a more attractive smile.
• Prevention of Further Damage: Crowns protect vulnerable teeth by covering and sealing them. This can prevent the tooth from breaking or decaying further, especially if it has already been weakened by cavities, trauma, or other dental issues.
• Versatility: Crowns are used in a variety of dental situations. Whether for a tooth that has undergone a root canal, a severely decayed or fractured tooth, or a dental implant restoration, crowns offer a versatile solution to restore both the appearance and function of teeth.

When Are Dental Crowns Necessary?

Dental crowns are typically recommended for patients who need to restore teeth that are:

• Severely Decayed: When a tooth has been damaged by cavities and a filling is no longer enough to restore the tooth’s structure, a crown may be necessary to strengthen the tooth and protect it from further damage.
• Fractured or Cracked: A tooth that has suffered a fracture or crack can benefit from the added strength of a crown. Crowns help prevent the crack from worsening and causing the tooth to break further.
• After a Root Canal Treatment: When a tooth undergoes a root canal, the remaining tooth structure may become weakened. A crown is placed to protect and restore the tooth’s integrity, as well as to ensure it can function properly.
• To Improve the Appearance of Tooth: Crowns can be used to improve the appearance of a tooth that is discoloured, misshapen, or damaged. In cosmetic dentistry, crowns are often used to create a more aesthetically pleasing smile.
• To Support a Dental Bridge or Implant Crowns are often used in conjunction with dental bridges or implants. For bridges, crowns are placed on the abutment teeth to anchor the bridge, while for implants, a crown is placed on the implant post to restore the tooth.

The Dental Crown Procedure

Getting a dental crown typically involves two visits to the dentist:

First Visit:

• Examination and Preparation: The dentist will examine the tooth and take X-rays to assess the extent of the damage or decay. If a root canal is needed, it will be performed before placing the crown.
• Tooth Shaping: The dentist will shape the tooth by removing any decayed or damaged portions and contouring it to fit the crown. This may require some reshaping of the tooth to ensure the crown fits snugly.
• Impressions: Impressions of the prepared tooth will be taken using either traditional moulds or digital technology. These impressions will be sent to a dental laboratory where the custom crown will be made.
• Temporary Crown: A temporary crown is placed over the prepared tooth to protect it while the permanent crown is being fabricated.

Second Visit:

• Crown Placement: Once the permanent crown is ready, the temporary crown is removed, and the new crown is placed on the tooth. The dentist will check the fit, making sure the crown aligns properly with the bite.
• Cementing: Once the crown is properly adjusted, it will be cemented onto the tooth. The dentist will make any final adjustments and polish the crown to ensure a smooth and natural-looking finish.
• Final Check: The dentist will make sure the crown fits securely and comfortably before sending you on your way.

How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

The lifespan of a dental crown depends on several factors, including the material used, the location of the crown, and the patient’s oral hygiene habits. On average, dental crowns can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years, with proper care and maintenance. Porcelain crowns may last 5 to 10 years, while metal crowns can last 10 to 15 years or more.

To extend the life of your crown, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly. Avoid chewing hard foods or using teeth as tools, as this can damage the crown.

Are Dental Crowns Covered by Insurance?

Dental crowns are often covered by dental insurance, though coverage can vary depending on the type of crown and the specific plan. Insurance may cover part or all of the cost, particularly if the crown is placed for restorative purposes (e.g., following a root canal). Cosmetic crowns for aesthetic purposes may not be fully covered. It’s important to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage options.

Conclusion

Dental crowns are an excellent solution for restoring damaged teeth, whether due to decay, trauma, or cosmetic concerns. They offer both strength and aesthetics, allowing patients to enjoy a fully functional and beautiful smile. Whether you need a crown for a molar after a root canal, to improve the appearance of a discoloured tooth, or as part of a dental implant, crowns are versatile, durable, and effective.

Restore and protect your teeth with high-quality dental crowns at Caring Dental. Dr. Joseph Prasad provides strong, natural-looking solutions for damaged or weakened teeth.