What is a Crown?
We need our teeth to eat properly, so when one is damaged it can take a toll on your day-to-day life. In order to protect your teeth and overall well-being, it is important to repair damaged teeth.
At the practice of Dr. Gary Horblitt, we specialize in dental prosthetics, such as crowns and bridges, also known as crown and bridgework. A crown is used when too much of the patient’s tooth structure is gone or when a root canal for infection has been performed. The Patient’s tooth is prepped by shaping the tooth to the specs that are needed for a perfect-fitting temporary. The patient remains in the temporary crown while a custom-colored porcelain crown is made. Crowns can also be anchored with a dental implant, which is part of implant-supported restorations.
Looking for an improved appearance for your smile? When applied in clinically appropriate situations for broken down, discolored, or stained teeth, dental crowns provide the appearance of natural teeth, especially when custom-made with custom shapes and colors.
What to Expect During a Dental Crown Procedure
Dental crown procedures at Gary Horblitt D.D.S. involve careful planning. Models are made of the patient’s mouth, the teeth are studied and waxed up in the lab where custom temporaries are fabricated. The patient is then appointed to shape the tooth or teeth and fit the temporary. The patient will remain in an excellent-looking and well-fitting temporary until the final crowns are designed and fabricated. The tooth or teeth will be cosmetically excellent, naturally blending and sparkling bright within the patient’s perfect smile.
When Might You Need a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is often used to cover a tooth that is already weakened, protecting the tooth from further decay and providing extra strength for chewing. A dental crown is also used to protect a tooth after a dental procedure, including a root canal, dental implant, or dental bridge.
Dental crowns are also useful to cover teeth that are misshapen, discolored, or otherwise have an appearance that is not aesthetically pleasing. Getting crowns that are similar to the color of your teeth provides a natural appearance and enhances your smile.
Different Types of Dental Crowns
There are several kinds of dental crowns to choose from, each varying in strength, aesthetic, and cost. The right kind will depend on different factors, including the tooth’s location and the severity of the tooth’s damage. Below are four common options for dental crowns.
Gold Crowns
Gold crowns have been around for over a century and are extremely strong and durable. The only setback with gold crowns is their appearance, which can be unsightly depending on your taste. For this reason, gold crowns work great for back molars, where the crown is not entirely visible and can be adjusted for bite problems.
Porcelain Fused-to-Metal Crowns
These crowns are made with a metal interior and a hard-layered porcelain exterior, providing the best of both worlds. They have the benefit of durability while also creating a natural appearance that matches the rest of your teeth. Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns have also been used for several decades, so dentists know how well they work.
Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia crowns are similar to porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns in that they have combined metal and porcelain components. They are used in many different situations and are known for strength and durability.
Dental Crown Aftercare
Once your dental crown is in place, it is important to maintain proper care of your teeth. While a crown has restored a tooth, it doesn’t mean the tooth is indestructible. With proper care, a good quality crown can last up to eight or more years. Remember to brush and floss the area of the crown daily to avoid excess plaque buildup or collection of debris around the restoration.
It is also important to pay attention to other behaviors that may damage the crown. These behaviors often include jaw clenching or bruxism (teeth grinding). Try to avoid eating brittle foods, ice, or hard candy as well. In doing so, the adhesion of the crown can be compromised or damaged.
Are Crowns Right For You?
Dental crowns are a great way to protect your teeth while maintaining a natural look. Ensure that you select the crown type that suits you best aesthetically and clinically. Contact our office today to schedule your appointment with our dental professionals.
