What are dental crowns?
A dental crown is a synthetic tooth that is fixed in the mouth. Unlike dentures, which are not permanent and can be removed, a dental crown is secured in the mouth to an existing tooth or a dental implant. A dental crown can only be removed by a dentist.
Why choose a crown?
A dental crown is a great option to replace a lost or damaged tooth. An artificial crown functions like a cap, entirely covering a damaged tooth. A crown may be selected for multiple purposes, including strengthening or stabilizing a damaged tooth, or improving a tooth’s appearance. Further, a crown can improve a smile by correcting misalignment or a tooth’s shape. If a tooth is lost, an implant may be put in its place and crown is this secured on top of the implant. Crowns can be made of various synthetic materials including acrylic, alloys, or gold, but the most popular are either porcelain or ceramic crowns. When they are ordered a dentist will select a shade to match your natural tooth color. There are many reasons why your dentist may recommend a crown. A few include:
- Replacing a large filling
- Protecting a weak tooth from fracturing
- Stabilizing a fractured tooth
- Covering a dental implant
- Concealing a poorly shaped tooth or tooth that is stained in color
- Covering a tooth after a root canal
How are crowns made?
Prior to securing a crown to your teeth, your dentist will need to do some work to make sure the size of the tooth is reduced for the crown to fit. Once the tooth has been filed down, your dentist will need to take measurements to order the size of the crown needed. This measurement will be taken using an impression, which will create a mold for the crown to be made with. If your dentist decides to order a porcelain crown, they will need to identify what shade of crown will match the color of your natural teeth.
Your dentist will send the impression to dental lab where the crown will be made. The type of material used to make the crown really depends on what your dentist thinks will be best and what you prefer. While you are waiting for the permanent crown to be made, your dentist will fix a temporary crown on the prepared tooth. Once the crown is made and sent to your dentist they will schedule a visit for you to permanently secure your new crown.
How Long does a crown last?
A permanent dental crown can last forever, but they may fall out or become loose. The most important way to make sure a dental crown lasts is to practice good oral hygiene habits. Good hygiene will help keep your gums and teeth healthy and will go a long way to making sure your dental crown lasts. Other important steps to make your crown last are to maintain regularly schedule dental visits, and to avoid chewing hard objects, including food or ice, that can cause damage to your crown.
More About Dental Crowns : What is the Dental Crown Procedure?