An anterior crown covers and protects a damaged or weakened front tooth. This custom-made cap restores its original shape, size, and strength. It also improves the tooth’s appearance, contributing to a more confident smile.
Understanding Anterior Crowns
Anterior refers to the front teeth, including incisors and canines. These visible teeth make the crown’s aesthetic outcome important.
Anterior crowns are crafted from materials that mimic natural teeth. Common choices include porcelain and ceramic, known for matching natural tooth color and translucency. Newer materials like lithium disilicate and multi-layered zirconia offer excellent aesthetics and durability. Lithium disilicate provides superior light transmission for a highly natural look.
Reasons for Needing an Anterior Crown
An anterior crown repairs front teeth fractured, chipped, or broken by trauma or hard objects. These crowns provide a protective shield, preventing further damage.
Anterior crowns may also be recommended for:
A tooth with extensive decay that cannot be adequately repaired with a traditional filling.
Severely discolored or misshapen front teeth, significantly improving their cosmetic appearance.
A tooth that has undergone root canal treatment, to reinforce its weakened structure and protect it from fracture.
Support for a dental bridge, which replaces one or more missing teeth.
The Procedure for Anterior Crowns
Getting an anterior crown typically involves two dental appointments. The initial visit includes a thorough tooth examination, with X-rays to assess roots and surrounding bone. The dentist prepares the tooth by reshaping its outer surface, removing enamel to create space for the crown. This reduction ensures the crown will fit properly without appearing bulky.
After preparation, impressions or digital scans are taken of the tooth and surrounding teeth. These are sent to a dental laboratory to fabricate a custom permanent crown matching the patient’s natural tooth color and shape. While the permanent crown is made, a temporary crown protects the prepared tooth. Patients are advised to avoid hard or sticky foods with the temporary crown to prevent dislodgement.
The second appointment involves removing the temporary crown, cleaning the tooth, and bonding the permanent crown with strong dental cement. The dentist checks the bite and makes adjustments for comfort and proper function.
Caring for Your Anterior Crown
Proper care ensures an anterior crown’s longevity and overall oral health. Daily oral hygiene includes brushing twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Regular flossing removes food particles and plaque from around the crown, especially at the gumline. An antibacterial mouthwash can also help control bacteria.
To prevent damage, avoid biting hard objects like ice, pens, or popcorn kernels, which can chip or crack the crown. Limit sticky foods like caramel, as they can dislodge the crown. If you grind your teeth (bruxism), a custom night guard can protect the crown from excessive wear. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings, typically twice a year, allow monitoring of the crown’s condition and early issue resolution. While crowns are durable, often lasting 10 to 15 years, their lifespan can extend even longer with consistent care.