Types of Dental Crowns
SRD on Helton Drive in Florence, AL
 A dental crown is one of the most common dental restorations that patients often require. A dental crown is a cap that fits and covers over the top portion of your tooth, most typically the molars.
A crown may be needed when a tooth is severely damaged or decayed. Crowns are also used to protect a weak tooth from breaking, and to restore a broken or severely worn down tooth. Additionally, crowns can be used to cover misshapen or severely discolored teeth.
What Are Dental Crowns Used For?
Dental crowns have been used for the longest time now in restorative dentistry to replace missing or damaged teeth. Crowns are most preferred for people who have severely damaged and weakened teeth that are not fit for an amalgam filling or large dental fillings. You will also require a dental crown if your natural teeth are severely fractured or broken, have had a root canal procedure, to cover or cap a dental implant, or for cosmetic reasons.
Cosmetically, dental crowns enhance the appearance of your smile by evening the color, size, and contor of your natural teeth. We can help you restore your natural smile using dental crowns at Singing River Dentistry.
Types of Crowns
There are several types of dental crowns to choose from. These crowns are made of different materials, offering varying levels of strength and longevity, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Crowns come in different colors as well; some patients want a natural appearing tooth, while others may not mind if their dental crown is visible.
All-Porcelain Crowns
All-porcelain crowns are the most popular dental crown material. These crowns are entirely made of porcelain. Porcelain crowns are the most preferred type of dental crowns because they can mimic the natural teeth in look, feel, and function. They are also referred to as ceramic crowns and help provide the most natural appearance for your teeth as they blend in with your surrounding natural teeth. Porcelain crowns are most preferred for front teeth replacements, especially if a patient has to undergo additional crown restorations.
These types of crowns do cost more, compared to metal crowns, but they are biocompatible with your mouth, so there are no allergic reactions as they do not contain any toxins. All-porcelain crowns are not as durable as metal crowns but last considerably a long time, given the proper care. They are also not a good fit for patients who suffer from bruxism as the constant teeth grinding can wear them off.
Porcelain Fused to Metal (PFM) Crowns
Porcelain fused to metal is another type of dental crown material comprised of a metal coated with layers of porcelain to give off still that natural tooth color. PFM crowns have added strength due to their metal qualities compared to all-porcelain crowns and are favorably less expensive. However, these crowns could leave a grey line at the gingival margin where they are attached, so a natural tooth appearance is not 100 percent guaranteed like in all-porcelain crowns. They are still not a great fit for people who clench their teeth as opposing teeth could wear down more.
Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia crowns are also available. They offer strength and durability, and are thought to be even stronger than porcelain crowns. Crowns made of zirconia can withstand wear and tear without chipping. However, one downside to zirconia crowns is that they can cause wear to the adjacent teeth.
Crown Procedures
Dental crown placement procedures usually take a minimum of two dental appointments. The first appointment focuses on examining and assessing the dental cavity and preparing your tooth for crown fitting. Preparation includes removing weak and damaged parts of a tooth to ensure any infection does not progress.
The tooth is shaped and contoured to fit your dental crown, and an impression will be taken and sent to the lab for a custom fit. We may also use equipment such as 3D scanners, imaging, and printers to ensure we save time and a precise crown is made. A temporary crown is placed to cap the prepped tooth and prevent it from further infection.
The second appointment involves removing the temporary crown and installing the permanent crown. Your dental crown will be secured in place on your tooth or atop your dental implant using dental cement. After a crown fitting and placement, it is important to maintain a healthy dental routine and keep up regular dental appointments for checkups and cleanings.
Tips for Maintaining Your New Dental Crown
Maintaining a dental crown and achieving excellent dental health hinges on a solid oral hygiene routine. Key practices include brushing your teeth for two minutes twice a day, ensuring you thoroughly clean the back and biting surfaces of all teeth. Daily flossing is also essential to prevent plaque buildup between the teeth. Additionally, cleaning your tongue, the roof of your mouth, and the inside of your cheeks helps reduce harmful bacteria. Together, these steps significantly reduce the risk of oral complications and help preserve your dental crown.
Regular dental check-ups every six months are crucial for examining your oral health and providing a professional cleaning. During these visits, we can inspect your dental crown and offer maintenance advice if needed. The cleaning will remove any plaque or tartar buildup, helping to protect your teeth and gums from potential issues. If your dental crown is made from ceramic or resin, it's advisable to avoid foods and drinks that can stain, such as tea, coffee, tomato-based sauces, and dark fruit juices, as stained crowns are more noticeable.
Dental Crowns at Singing River Dentistry - Helton Drive
Our dental staff is waiting to hear from you so we can schedule you a consultation appointment and talk with you regarding a dental crown placement. We would love to have you visit during office hours or give us a call at (256) 904-4220. |
