Dental Crowns: A Comprehensive Guide

Dental Crowns: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Dental crowns are a popular restorative dental procedure that can be used to repair damaged, weakened or misshapen natural teeth. Tooth-shaped caps known as dental crowns are utilized to restore the shape, size, strength, and appearance of a tooth. These single crowns are placed over the existing tooth. They can also be used to cover dental implants or as part of a dental bridge. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about dental crowns, including types of crowns, the dental crown procedure, how long they last, and more.

What Are Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns refer to caps in the shape of a tooth that are used to cover a tooth that has been weakened or damaged, with the aim of restoring its size, shape, strength, and overall appearance. They can also be used to cover dental implants or as part of a dental bridge. Dental crowns are typically made of porcelain, metal, ceramic, or a combination of these materials.

Types of Crowns

There are several types of dental crowns that are available. Some of the most common types of crowns include:

• Porcelain Crowns: These crowns are made of porcelain and are designed to match the natural color of your teeth. They are a popular choice because of their natural appearance.

• Metal Crowns: These crowns are made of metal, usually gold or stainless steel, and are known for their durability. They are often used on posterior teeth because they can withstand the pressure of chewing and biting. An example is stainless steel crowns

• Metal-Ceramic Crowns: These crowns are made of a combination of metal and porcelain. The metal provides strength, while the porcelain provides a natural appearance. There are also gold crowns.

The Dental Crown Procedure

The dental crown procedure usually involves two appointments. At the initial appointment, the dentist will get the tooth ready for the crown by eliminating any decay or harm and modifying it to accommodate the crown. Then, the dentist will take an impression of the prepared tooth and place a temporary crown. The impression is sent to a dental laboratory to create a custom-made crown. During the second appointment, the temporary crown is removed, and the permanent crown is cemented in place.

Temporary Crown

A temporary crown is used to protect the prepared tooth while the permanent crown is being made. It is typically made of plastic or stainless steel and is held in place with temporary cement.

Dental Laboratory

The dental laboratory is responsible for creating the custom-made crown. A dental technician will use the impression of the prepared tooth to create a crown that fits perfectly.

Dental Cement

The permanent crown is secured in position using dental cement. It is a type of dental adhesive that is strong enough to hold the crown in place but can be removed if necessary.

Digital Impressions

Digital impressions are becoming more common in dental crown procedures. Instead of using traditional impressions, a digital scanner is used to create a 3D image of the tooth. This method is more comfortable for the patient and can produce more accurate results.

What is the duration of Dental Crowns' longevity?

The lifespan of a dental crown depends on various factors, such as the material used, the amount of wear and tear, and the oral hygiene of the patient. On average, dental crowns can last between 5 and 15 years. However, with proper care, some crowns can last up to 25 years.

Are Dental Crowns Painful?

Getting a dental crown should not be painful, as the dentist will use local anesthesia to numb the area before the procedure. Some patients may experience temporary sensitivity or discomfort after the procedure, but this can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

FAQs about Dental Crowns

What are dental crowns?

Dental crowns are dental restorations that are used to cover and protect damaged or weakened teeth. They are also used to improve the appearance of discolored or misshapen teeth.

What are the available types of dental crowns?

There are several types of dental crowns available, including metal crowns, porcelain crowns, and metal-ceramic crowns. The type of crown recommended will depend on the location of the tooth, the condition of the tooth, and the patient’s personal preferences.

What is a temporary crown?

A temporary crown is a temporary restoration that is placed on a prepared tooth while a permanent crown is being made in the dental laboratory. It is typically made of plastic or stainless steel and is designed to protect the tooth while the permanent crown is being fabricated.

How is a dental crown procedure performed?

The dental crown procedure typically involves several steps, including preparing the tooth, taking impressions of the prepared tooth, and placing a temporary crown on the prepared tooth while the permanent crown is being made. Once the permanent crown is ready, the temporary crown is removed and the permanent crown is cemented onto the prepared tooth.

What is the duration of time that dental crowns can endure?

Dental crowns can last for many years with proper care and maintenance. However, their lifespan can vary depending on factors such as the type of crown, the location of the tooth, and the patient’s oral hygiene habits.

Can dental crowns be used to replace missing primary teeth?

Dental crowns are typically used to restore damaged or weakened teeth. To replace missing teeth, a dental implant or a dental bridge may be recommended.

What is a dental bridge?

A dental bridge is a dental restoration that is used to replace one or more missing teeth. It consists of one or more artificial teeth (pontics) that are attached to dental crowns on either side of the gap.

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a small titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone to replace a missing tooth root. Once the implant has healed, a dental crown can be attached to the implant to replace the missing tooth.

What is a dental laboratory?

A dental laboratory is a specialized facility where dental restorations, such as dental crowns, are fabricated. Dental technicians work in the laboratory to create restorations that are custom-designed to fit each patient’s unique needs.

What is the difference between a temporary and a permanent crown?

A temporary crown is a temporary restoration that is placed on a prepared tooth while a permanent crown is being made in the dental laboratory. A permanent crown is a long-term restoration that is cemented onto the prepared tooth once it is ready.

Conclusion

Dental crowns are an effective way to restore damaged or weakened teeth and improve the appearance of misshapen or discolored teeth. With proper care and maintenance, they can last for many years. If you have a weak or damaged tooth, talk to your dentist about whether a dental crown may be right for you.

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