Dental crowns are versatile and indispensable dental prosthetics that are used to restore the shape, size, strength, and appearance of damaged teeth or serve as long-term tooth replacements atop dental implants. Crafted from various materials like porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, or some combination thereof, dental crowns encase (or replace) the above-the-gum portion of a tooth and offer structural support, protection, and aesthetic enhancement in the wake of decay, breakage, or extensive wear.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown, which can also be referred to as a “dental cap,” is a custom-made dental restoration designed to cover and protect a damaged or weakened tooth. A crown resembles a natural tooth in appearance and replaces its functionality, providing strength and durability.
Crowns are typically employed to protectively encase teeth that have been severely compromised by decay, disease, or injury. Crowns are recommended when a tooth is too damaged to be restored with a filling but still has a healthy root structure. By covering the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gumline, crowns restore the tooth's shape, size, and appearance while protecting it from further damage. Additionally, dental crowns are a popular post-tooth loss solution as restorations for patients with dental implants.
The Benefits of Dental Crowns
Properly placed dental crowns offer a variety of benefits to patients. Firstly, crowns provide structural support, preservation, and protection for weakened teeth. Crowns often help prevent the need for more extensive dental procedures in the future by protecting compromised teeth from decay and fracture.
Crowns also restore the functionality of damaged teeth, enabling normal biting and chewing, which allows food to be properly broken down, facilitating better digestion and nutrient absorption.
Additionally, dental crowns improve smile aesthetics by covering discolored or misshapen teeth or filling in gaps resulting from tooth loss. In either scenario, crowns result in a more uniform and attractive appearance.
Discovering the Different Types of Dental Crowns
The lifespan of dental crowns can vary based on multiple factors. The most significant of these variables is the material of which a crown is comprised. Here's a look at these different materials, some of their characteristics, and how long each type of crown can be expected to last with proper care:
- The top aesthetic option is porcelain crowns that blend seamlessly with natural teeth. Unfortunately, porcelain crowns are more prone to chipping and typically have a shorter lifespan (5 to 15 years) than other types of crowns.
- Meanwhile, crowns made of porcelain-fused-to-metal combine aesthetic appeal with strength, typically offering a lifespan of 10 to 15 years.
- Durable metals like gold or silver boast impressive longevity (15-30 years!) but are often preferred for less visible teeth, as they are the least aesthetically attractive dental crown option.
- Though they tend to be at the higher end of the pricing spectrum, crowns made entirely from ceramic or zirconia combine aesthetics and durability, often offering a lifespan of 20 years or more.
The Dental Crown Placement Process
The placement of dental crowns usually requires two visits to the dentist. During the first visit, the tooth is prepared via the removal of any remaining damaged tissue and then reshaped to accommodate a crown. At this point, impressions of the prepared tooth and surrounding teeth are taken. From these impressions, a crown that fits snugly over the tooth is custom-made at a dental laboratory. The dentist may place a temporary crown to protect the tooth while the permanent crown is fabricated.
Then, during the second visit, the temporary crown (if one was placed) is removed and the permanent crown is precisely placed and cemented into position.
Choosing the Right Dental Crown
Choosing the right dental crown involves careful consideration. In making this decision, one must weigh factors like material, durability, aesthetics, and cost. Porcelain or ceramic crowns are ideal for front teeth due to their natural appearance. However, metal crowns offer superior strength for less visible and frequently used molars. Hybrid options, meanwhile, provide a balance of strength and aesthetics. Any patient considering a dental crown should consult with their dentist to determine the most suitable option for their specific needs and preferences.
Dental Crown Aftercare
Aftercare is crucial for maximizing the longevity and efficacy of a dental crown. Proper dental crown care calls for patients to adhere to good oral hygiene practices, including brushing at least twice daily, flossing every day, and regular rinses using antimicrobial mouthwash. Additionally, avoiding habits like teeth grinding or chewing on hard objects can prolong the lifespan of dental crowns and protect surrounding teeth from damage.
It’s also important to attend regular dental check-ups and cleanings to prevent potential issues such as decay or gum disease and monitor the condition of a crown.
Precisely Placed Dental Crowns in Los Gatos, CA
If you’re looking for a cosmetic dentist in Los Gatos, CA with experience and expertise in a full range of treatments and procedures that can have a transformative and restorative impact on your bite and smile, like the precise placement of dental crowns, contact dentist Dr. Nicole Pagonis and the team at Nicole Pagonis DDS to schedule a consultation!