Understanding Dental Crowns: Uses, Materials, and Procedure

2023-04-18 11:11:30 UTC

Understanding Dental Crowns: Uses, Materials, and Procedure, Cosmo Dental, San Francisco, CA

In this comprehensive post, we will explore the uses of dental crowns.

Dental crowns are a popular restorative treatment that can help restore the shape, size, and function of a damaged tooth. In this comprehensive post, we will explore the uses of dental crowns, the different materials available, and the procedure for getting a dental crown.

Uses of dental crowns:

  1. Tooth decay: Dental crowns are often used to restore teeth that have been extensively damaged by tooth decay or cavities and are unable to be effectively restored with a filling.
  2. Fractured or broken teeth: Dental crowns can be used to repair teeth that are fractured or broken due to trauma or injury, restoring their strength and function.
  3. Root canal treated teeth: Teeth that have undergone root canal treatment may be weakened and require the added protection of a dental crown to prevent further damage and restore their functionality.
  4. Cosmetic purposes: Dental crowns can also be used for cosmetic purposes to improve the appearance of misshapen, discolored, or severely stained teeth, helping to enhance the overall aesthetics of the smile.

Materials used for dental crowns:

  1. Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM): PFM crowns have a metal substructure covered with porcelain, providing a durable and aesthetically pleasing option. They are commonly used for back teeth due to their strength and durability.
  2. All-ceramic or all-porcelain: These crowns are made entirely of porcelain or ceramic material, offering excellent aesthetics and natural-looking results. They are commonly used for front teeth where aesthetics are a priority.
  3. Metal crowns: Metal crowns, typically made from gold, offer excellent durability and longevity. However, they are less commonly used due to their metallic appearance and are typically reserved for specific cases where aesthetics are not a concern.

Procedure for getting a dental crown:

  1. Tooth preparation: Your dentist will first prepare the affected tooth by removing any decay or damaged portion and shaping it to accommodate the crown. This may involve removing a portion of the tooth's natural structure.
  2. Impression: An impression of the prepared tooth will be taken, which will be sent to a dental lab for the fabrication of the crown. A temporary crown may be placed to protect the tooth until the permanent crown is ready.
  3. Crown placement: Once the permanent crown is ready, your dentist will carefully place it over the prepared tooth, making sure it fits properly and feels comfortable. Any necessary adjustments will be made, and the crown will be permanently cemented in place.
  4. Follow-up: Your dentist may schedule a follow-up appointment to ensure that the crown is functioning properly, and there are no issues with fit or comfort.

Dental crowns are a versatile and effective restorative treatment that can help restore the strength, function, and aesthetics of damaged teeth. With various materials available and a straightforward procedure, dental crowns are a popular choice for many dental patients. If you believe you may benefit from a dental crown, it's important to consult your dentist for an evaluation and personalized treatment plan. Remember, this information is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional dental advice.