Dental Crown Care Essentials You Need to Know
Basically, dental crowns are “caps” for damaged teeth. Dental crowns can be made from different materials including porcelain or metal. Dental crowns can be placed over molars that are rarely seen or on front teeth as they are designed to mimic the appearance of the natural teeth.
Who needs a dental crown?
Patients with a large cavity that’s too big for a filling are often ideal candidates for a dental crown.
A dental crown is also the best option if the tooth is:
- Weakened
- Cracked
- Severely worn down
Crowns are also the recommended option following root canal since the tooth can become more fragile and they can provide the much needed protection. People who are missing a tooth may also be good candidates for dental crowns.
What are the different types of dental crowns?
- Temporary crown
As the name implies, a temporary crown is one that will only remain in the mouth for a short period of time. Temporary crowns are placed over the tooth using an adhesive that can be easily removed. That being said, it is expected that temporary crowns are not as strong as the permanent ones.
Temporary crowns are placed to protect the tooth while waiting for the permanent crown to be fabricated. Permanent crowns are often placed on the tooth on the second appointment, usually 1-3 weeks later.
Sometimes, temporary crowns may be placed for a longer period of time for the dentist to assess its function, aesthetics, and comfort for the patient before designing the permanent crown.
- One-day crown
It is possible to get a crown in a single appointment. Some dental offices provide same-day installation of dental crown using several methods like computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD-CAM). The dental crown is designed and milled right there in the office.
- Onlay or 3/4 crown
Some dental crowns cover just a portion of the tooth. If your dentist thinks you don’t need a full crown, an onlay or a 3/4 crown may be recommended.
What factors should be considered when choosing dental crowns?
When choosing dental crowns, some of the key factors taken into account include:
- Strength
- Durability
- Aesthetic concerns
- Cost
For others, a natural looking dental crown that won’t detract from their smile may also be a primary consideration. As a general rule of thumb, consider it best to check with your dentist regarding options available for you so you’ll be given the treatment option that will best your needs.
What are some of the materials used in dental crowns?
Some of the materials used in dental crowns include:
- Zirconia
- Metal
- Porcelain
- Ceramic
- Composite resin
- Combination of materials (case in point: some have porcelain crown fused to metal while others are all-porcelain crowns)
What factors are considered when selecting materials for the crown?
When choosing materials for the dental crown, the following are some of the primary factors most dentists take into account:
- The location of the tooth
- How much of the tooth is evident when the patient smiles
- Position of the gum tissue
- Function of the tooth that will need the crown
- Colour of the surrounding teeth
- How much of the natural tooth remains
For patients who have other personal preferences, it is recommended that they talk it out with their dentists.