What Are Dental Crowns?

Have you ever wondered how dentists restore severely damaged teeth? Dental crowns have become an increasingly popular solution for individuals seeking to restore the health, function, and aesthetics of their teeth. Whether you’ve suffered from tooth decay, experienced a dental injury, or simply want to improve the appearance of your smile, dental crowns offer a versatile and effective treatment option. This guide will delve into the world of dental crowns, exploring their purpose, types, procedures, benefits, risks, and costs.

What Are Dental Crowns?

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped “cap” that is placed over a tooth to cover it and restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. When cemented into place, the crown fully encases the entire visible portion of the tooth that lies at and above the gum line. Crowns can be made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, resin, and zirconia.

When Might You Need a Dental Crown?

Our dentists may recommend a dental crown for various reasons:

• Protecting a weak tooth from breaking or fracturing further
• Restoring a broken or severely worn tooth damaged by injury or decay
• Supporting a tooth with a large filling when there isn’t enough natural tooth remaining
• Securing a dental bridge to replace missing teeth
• Covering misshapen or severely discolored teeth for cosmetic improvement
• Completing a dental implant for a natural-looking tooth replacement
• Protecting a tooth after root canal therapy to prevent brittleness and fractures

Types of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are available in a variety of materials, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

 

Type of Crown	Material	Advantages	Disadvantages
Metal Crowns	Gold alloys, palladium, nickel, chromium	Extremely durable, withstand biting and chewing forces, rarely chip or break, require minimal tooth preparation 7	Metallic color may be less aesthetically pleasing
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns	Porcelain fused to a metal structure	Combines strength of metal with the natural look of porcelain, can be matched to the shade of your natural teeth	Porcelain can chip, metal may show through
All-Ceramic or All-Porcelain Crowns	Porcelain, zirconia	Excellent natural color match, suitable for people with metal allergies, zirconia is very durable	Can be more expensive than other options
Pressed Ceramic Crowns	Ceramic core with porcelain layers	Mimics the translucency of natural teeth, good balance of strength and aesthetics	Ceramic layers can chip
All-Resin Crowns	Composite resin	Less expensive than other types	Less durable, prone to fractures

The choice of crown material depends on several factors, including the location of the tooth, aesthetic considerations, desired durability, and cost. For example, metal crowns are often preferred for molars due to their strength and durability, while all-ceramic crowns are a popular choice for front teeth where aesthetics are a priority.

 

Benefits of Dental Crowns

Choosing a dental crown at Summit Dental Care offers numerous advantages:

• Restored Function: Enjoy improved chewing and speaking ability
• Enhanced Appearance: Achieve a more natural, beautiful smile
• Long-lasting Protection: With proper care, crowns can last 5-15+ years
• Preserved Oral Health: Prevent further damage and potential tooth loss
• Custom-Designed: Each crown is tailored to your unique dental needs
• Pain Relief: Alleviate discomfort from damaged teeth

Potential Risks and Side Effects of Dental Crowns

While dental crowns are generally safe and effective, there are some potential risks and side effects to be aware of:

• Tooth sensitivity: You may experience some sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures after the procedure, especially if the tooth still has a nerve. This sensitivity usually subsides over time.
• Chipped crown: Porcelain or ceramic crowns can chip or break, especially if you grind your teeth or bite down on hard objects.
• Loose crown: The cement holding the crown in place can sometimes loosen, allowing bacteria to leak in and cause decay.
• Crown falls off: In some cases, a crown may come off completely. This can happen if the cement fails or the underlying tooth decays.
• Allergic reaction: Although rare, some people may have an allergic reaction to the materials used in the crown.
• Gum irritation: Crowns can sometimes irritate the gums, leading to inflammation or recession. Maintaining good oral hygiene, including regular brushing and flossing, is crucial for preventing gum disease and ensuring the longevity of your crown.

 

Alternatives to Dental Crowns

While dental crowns are a versatile solution for many dental problems, there are alternative treatment options that may be more suitable in certain situations:

• Inlays and onlays: These are less invasive restorations that can be used to repair teeth with moderate damage. Inlays fit within the cusps of a tooth, while onlays cover one or more cusps.
• Veneers: Veneers are thin porcelain shells that are bonded to the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance. They are primarily used for cosmetic purposes, such as covering chips, cracks, or discoloration.

 

Caring for Your New Crown

To maximize the lifespan of your dental crown:

• Maintain excellent oral hygiene with regular brushing and flossing
• Attend your regular checkups at Summit Dental Care
• Avoid biting hard objects like ice or using your teeth as tools
• Consider a night guard if you grind your teeth during sleep
• Contact us promptly if your crown feels loose or uncomfortable

 

Schedule Your Consultation Today

Dental crowns are a valuable restorative and cosmetic dental treatment option that can address a wide range of dental concerns. They can strengthen weakened teeth, protect cracked teeth, restore damaged teeth, improve chewing function, and enhance the appearance of your smile. While there are potential risks and side effects, these are generally manageable with proper care and attention. The cost of dental crowns can vary, but they offer a long-lasting solution for restoring and maintaining your oral health.

If you’re experiencing tooth pain, have a damaged tooth, or want to explore your options for improving your smile, contact Summit Dental Care today. Our friendly team is ready to help restore both your oral health and confidence with our exceptional dental crown services