A dental crown serves as a custom-made cap that completely covers a damaged or weakened tooth. It restores the tooth’s shape, size, and strength, enhancing its appearance. Crowns provide structural support, making them a solution for teeth with significant decay, fractures, or extensive wear. This restorative method helps improve the overall functionality and health of the tooth, allowing for comfortable biting and chewing.
Preparing for Crown Placement
Before a permanent dental crown can be attached, several preparatory steps ensure a precise fit and lasting restoration. The process begins with a thorough examination of the affected tooth to assess its health and identify issues. Existing decay or damaged tooth structure is removed, and the tooth is then reshaped. This reshaping creates adequate space for the crown to fit over the natural tooth without appearing bulky.
Following tooth preparation, an impression of the reshaped tooth and surrounding teeth is taken. This impression serves as a blueprint for a dental laboratory to fabricate the permanent crown, ensuring a precise match. While the permanent crown is being crafted, a temporary crown is placed over the prepared tooth. This temporary crown protects the exposed tooth from sensitivity and damage, maintains proper spacing, and allows for normal chewing function.
The Attachment Process
Once the permanent crown is ready, the attachment process begins with the removal of the temporary crown and a thorough cleaning of the prepared tooth. The dentist then checks the fit, bite alignment, and aesthetics of the new crown. Adjustments are made to ensure the crown seats well and integrates with surrounding teeth.
Dental crowns are made from various materials, each offering distinct properties. Porcelain and zirconia crowns provide excellent aesthetic matches to natural teeth, preferred for visible areas due to translucency. Metal crowns offer superior durability and are highly resistant to wear, making them suitable for back teeth. Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns combine the strength of metal with the natural appearance of porcelain.
Dental cements or bonding agents secure the crown, acting as an adhesive between the crown and tooth structure. Common types include zinc phosphate, glass ionomer, and resin-based cements. The chosen cement is mixed, applied to the inside surface of the crown, and the crown is then seated onto the prepared tooth. Excess cement is removed, and a curing light may be used to harden the material, creating a durable bond.
Living with Your Crown
After a dental crown is attached, some individuals may experience temporary sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, which typically subsides within a few days. Proper care is important for the longevity of the crown and the health of the underlying tooth. Regular oral hygiene, including brushing twice daily with a soft-bristled brush and flossing, helps prevent plaque buildup and decay around the crown’s margins.
The lifespan of a dental crown varies, generally lasting between 5 and 15 years, though some can last longer with appropriate care. Factors influencing longevity include the crown material, oral hygiene practices, diet, and habits like teeth grinding. Avoiding hard or sticky foods, such as nuts, ice, or caramel, can prevent chipping, cracking, or dislodging the crown. Signs that a crown may need attention include persistent discomfort, sensitivity, a feeling of looseness or movement, or visible cracks or chips. Regular dental check-ups allow dentists to monitor the crown’s condition and address any potential issues early, ensuring its continued function and protection.