Dental Crowns: What You Need To Know About Dental Crowns

Dental crowns, or dental caps or tooth crowns, are prosthetic devices used to cover a damaged or decayed tooth. They are custom-made caps placed over a tooth to restore shape, size, strength, and appearance. Dental crowns are often used when a tooth is significantly weakened due to decay, fracture, large fillings, or root canal therapy.

Dental crowns serve both functional and cosmetic dental restoration. They protect weakened teeth, restore their functionality, and improve their appearance, enhancing the patient’s oral health and smile.

Different Types Of Crowns

There are several types of dental crowns, each with unique advantages and considerations. Here are some common types of dental crowns –

• Metal Crowns

Metal crowns, often made of alloys containing gold, palladium, or nickel, are durable and can withstand chewing and biting forces well. They require minimal removal of tooth structure. They are an excellent choice for molars where strength and durability are essential.

• Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns 

PFM crowns combine the strength of metal with the natural appearance of porcelain. They look more natural than metal crowns because they can be color-matched to adjacent teeth.

• All-Ceramic or All-Porcelain Crowns

These crowns provide the most natural appearance as they can precisely match your natural teeth’ color, clarity, and texture. They are an excellent choice for front teeth and visible areas. Advancements in ceramic materials have significantly improved their strength along with their aesthetics.

• Zirconia Crowns

Zirconia crowns are made from a strong, biocompatible, durable, and aesthetically pleasing material. They are suitable for both front and back teeth. These crowns can be more abrasive to opposing teeth than porcelain, and adjustments may be more challenging due to their hardness.

• Resin Crowns

Resin crowns are typically the most affordable option. They can be made in the dentist’s office, allowing for a same-day crown placement. Resin crowns are less durable and may wear down over time, especially if exposed to heavy biting forces.

• Temporary Crowns

Temporary crowns are made of acrylic or stainless steel and are used to protect the tooth, while the permanent crown is fabricated in a dental laboratory. These crowns are not as strong or long-lasting as apparently permanent dental crowns and are meant to be a temporary solution.

The choice of crown material depends on factors such as the tooth’s location, the extent of the damage, the patient’s oral hygiene habits, and personal preferences.

When Is A Dental Crown Required?

Here are some common scenarios where a dental crown might be required –

1. Large Cavities: When a large cavity cannot be restored with a regular dental filling, a crown is often placed to cover and protect the tooth.
2. Fractured or Cracked Teeth: Teeth that are fractured or cracked due to trauma, injury, or extensive decay may require crowns to hold the tooth together and prevent further damage.
3. After Root Canal Treatment: Teeth that have undergone root canal therapy are often weakened. A crown is placed over the treated tooth to protect it and restore strength.
4. Cosmetic Reasons: Crowns are used for cosmetic dentistry procedures to improve the smile and the appearance of teeth that are severely discolored, misshapen, or poorly aligned. 
5. Dental Implants: Crowns are placed on top of long-lasting dental implants to replace missing teeth. The implant acts as an artificial tooth root, and the crown is attached to restore function and appearance.
6. Teeth with Large Fillings: Teeth with large existing fillings that need to be replaced might benefit from crowns to restore strength and prevent further damage.

A dentist determines the need for a dental crown after thoroughly examining and evaluating the specific dental issue.

Restore Your Confident Smile With Dental Crowns

Regain your teeth’ strength, beauty, and function with our expertly crafted dental crowns at Pinnacle Dental. Our Plano Dentist for dental crowns provides top-notch dental care tailored to your unique needs. Say goodbye to discomfort and hello to a brilliant, confident smile. 

Contact our dental office at (972) 801-2788) to schedule a free consultation with Dr. Steve Jang for an unmatched dental care experience.