If you have unevenly shaped teeth or a broken tooth, you may be a good candidate for a dental crown. A
dental crown is designed like a cap that is placed over the tooth to improve its appearance and increase its strength. When cemented in place, the crown sits at and above the gum line to look like a real tooth. If you want to protect a weak tooth, cover a tooth with a large filling or are having dental bridge work done, your dentist may recommend the use of a crown. Here’s a close look at the different types and uses of dental crowns for a healthy smile:
Reasons for a Dental Crown
Crowns are typically made from metal, resin, ceramic or porcelain materials that are fused to metal. Dental crowns are commonly needed for the following reasons:
- Secure a dental bridge
- Cover dental implants
- Protect a cracked tooth
- Restore broken teeth
- Support a tooth that has been worn down
- Cover discolored teeth
- Correct misshapen teeth
Types of Crowns Used in Dental Procedures
There are a number of different crowns available for dental procedures. These include:
Metal crowns – gold alloy, palladium, nickel and chromium are common types of metal crowns used in dental procedures. These can withstand chewing and do not wear down easily. While these types of dental crowns are generally stronger than ceramic or porcelain crowns, their color is a disadvantage for some people.
All-resin crowns – as the most cost-effective type of dental crown, all-resin crowns can be used to cover the crown completely but do break easily. These types of crowns may require regular replacing and do wear down within a short period of time.
Ceramic crowns – designed for people looking for a realistic-looking color match for their teeth, all-ceramic crowns are ideal for restoring broken teeth or cracked teeth and creating a healthy smile. These are generally a good choice for the front teeth.
All-porcelain crowns – another top choice for people looking for a good color match for the teeth, all-porcelain crowns can help support broken or cracked teeth and are typically fused to metal to provide extra support.
In many cases, your
dentist will prepare a
temporary crown out of acrylic or resin while the real dental crowns are made in a laboratory. When wearing a temporary crown, you may be advised to avoid chewing hard foods, steer clear of sticky foods and refrain from using the side of the mouth that has the crown while eating. After the temporary crown is removed, the dentist can check the color and fit of the permanent crown and then proceed with the placement process. Dental crowns can last between 5 and 15 years depending on what they are made of and how well you maintain them.
Learn more about
dental crowns in our information guide, or consult with a
cosmetic dentist in your area to discuss different options available in dental crowns and for getting your healthy smile makeover.
Published: 12/25/2009, Last Updated: 12/25/2009
By LocateADoc.com Medical Staff Writers
Our writers strive to present an objective, upfront and open view of the medical procedures you're interested in. We present you with both the good and bad, and work to represent both doctors' and patients' points of view. Our articles contain facts and statistics obtained from medical associations, medical and surgical journals, and through doctor and patient interviews.