A crown, similar to its name, is a cover or cap that the dentist places on a tooth. The crown will restore the tooth to the proper shape, size and function. In doing so, the tooth will be stronger and in most cases improve the way it looks. There are several reasons that the overall strength of a tooth has been compromised to the point that we may recommend a crown for your tooth.
These include:
- A cavity that is too large for a filling
- A broken tooth or filling
- Cracked tooth syndrome
- A tooth with a root canal
- Trauma
- Excessive tooth wear
- Wishting to cover a discolored or badly shaped tooth and improve your smile
Dental crowns are important in order to protect weakened teeth, prevent further breakdown of teeth and to prevent tooth loss.
In cases where there is a very large decay, a very large filling, a broken tooth or broken filling heavy chewing forces can place an excessive amount of force on the small remaining tooth structure. In these cases, a crown is recommended to protect the weakened tooth and prevent further loss of tooth structure.
In cases of root canal treated teeth, the tooth becomes very brittle and if not protected by a dental crown, it can catastrophically crack and breaks the tooth to the point that it will have to be extracted. Due to this reason, we recommend all of our patients who have root canal treatment done on a back tooth also receive a crown in order to protect the weakened tooth.
Cracked tooth syndrome is another reason why a tooth might need a crown. Teeth can develop minor cracks through everyday chewing. If these minor cracks then go through excessive clinching and grinding, the cracks can get larger and deeper causing sensitive to cold or chewing. In certain cases, it may not even be symptomatic rather be discovered during one of your routine exams or X-rays. At this point, treatment is required usually in the form of a full coverage crown in order to remove the crack and stabilize the remaining portion of the tooth. If treatment is not completed, the crack will get deeper over time, requiring a root canal or in some cases an extraction.
DIFFERENT TYPES OF CROWN MATERIALS
Crowns can be fabricated from a variety of material varying from gold to porcelain fused to metal, all porcelain/ceramic or zirconia. Each material has its advantages and drawbacks.
- Gold crown is the “gold standard” and has the best track record. This will be the longest lasting option while preserving the most tooth structure. The main drawback for many patients is the appearance of a gold crown.
- Porcelain fused to metal is sometimes used in areas of deep decay or in conjunction with removable partial dentures. They can have very good aesthetics, although the porcelain can fracture in some cases
- All porcelain/ceramic crowns are the most aesthetic and lifelike. Their strength is comparable or natural teeth and they are a great option for teeth in the “smile zone”.
- Zirconia is a very strong yep of porcelain which has been used in the medical field for many years. It is at times used for hip replacements and it has been successfully used in dentistry for many years. This is a great option for patients who are seeking a natural looking crown on a back tooth.
Come see us and let our doctors help you decide which material is right for your dental crown!
Ferdos Family Dentistry
Dental Crowns Experts
Although a dental crown is an investment, you be can rest assured that you are receiving the highest quality dental care at our office! At Ferdos Family Dental, we only use the highest quality materials and work with the best dental labs to ensure the best possible outcome. We will also work with your insurance company to ensure you get the maximum benefit, along with offering a variety of payment options including Care Credit with 6 months interest-free financing. Schedule an appointment today for your next dental crown!
