Dental crowns are customized restorations that cover up all of the surfaces of your tooth above the gum line. It’s a permanent restoration, although a temporary crown can be placed while a permanent one is being made for you. Your dentist can create and place the crown in two visits to the office.
Reasons Why You May Need a Dental Crown
Your dentist may recommend a dental crown if you have a large filling that needs to be replaced and there is not enough tooth structure left to support it. A crown may also be used to cover a badly injured tooth, such as one that has been chipped or cracked. A crown may be used to protect a tooth that has lost a lot of its enamel or been worn down as the result of grinding. These structures are also used for covering a severely discolored or misshapen tooth. Crowns can also be used to cover a dental implant and hold a bridge in place.
Types of Dental Crowns
There are several types of crowns that can be used on your affected tooth. For a molar that experiences intense chewing forces, a gold or gold alloy crown may be a good option. These metals are durable, provide a strong bond to the tooth, and do not wear away the remaining natural tooth structure underneath. Porcelain fused to metal is another option. The porcelain looks like a natural tooth while the metal enhances the crown’s durability and performance. A ceramic crown is used on the front teeth because of its ability to seamlessly blend with your natural tooth color. The dental lab can make this type of crown to match your other natural teeth.
Call Classic Smiles Dentistry today to learn more about dental crowns.
