Dental crowns are a common restorative solution. These tooth-shaped caps are designed to completely cover a damaged tooth. Their primary function is to restore the tooth’s original strength, shape, and appearance. Crowns help preserve oral health and function.
Common Reasons for a Crown
Dentists recommend dental crowns to protect and restore compromised teeth. A common reason is a tooth significantly weakened by extensive decay or a very large filling. When much of the tooth structure is lost, the remaining tooth can fracture under normal chewing forces. A crown provides external reinforcement, preventing further breakage.
Teeth that have undergone root canal therapy often need a crown. After a root canal, the tooth’s internal pulp is removed. This can make the tooth more brittle due to a loss of internal moisture and structural integrity. A crown over a root canal-treated tooth offers protection, shielding it from biting and chewing stresses.
Another reason for a crown is a fractured or broken tooth. Injuries, accidents, or severe decay can cause a tooth to break. A crown restores the tooth’s original form and structural integrity, providing a stable, durable surface for chewing. This helps alleviate pain and prevents further damage.
Crowns also improve the appearance of severely discolored or misshapen teeth. When professional whitening treatments are ineffective for deep stains, a crown provides a uniform, natural-looking surface. They can also reshape teeth or serve as components of a dental bridge, anchoring artificial teeth to replace missing ones.
Crowns protect teeth worn down by chronic grinding (bruxism) or acid erosion. By covering these surfaces, crowns prevent further wear and restore proper bite alignment and chewing efficiency.
Understanding Dental Crowns
A dental crown functions as a custom-made, tooth-shaped cap precisely fitted over a damaged tooth. It completely encases the visible portion of the tooth, extending from the gum line up to the chewing surface. Its purpose is to restore the tooth’s original shape, size, and strength, while also improving its appearance. This restoration helps the tooth withstand the forces of chewing and biting.
Crowns are fabricated from various materials. Porcelain and ceramic crowns are popular for their excellent aesthetics, as they can be matched closely to surrounding natural teeth. Metal alloys, such as gold, offer exceptional durability and strength, making them suitable for molars where chewing forces are highest. Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns combine the strength of a metal base with the aesthetic appeal of porcelain. Material selection depends on the tooth’s location, the patient’s bite, and aesthetic considerations.
The Crown Placement Process
Receiving a dental crown typically involves two dental visits. During the initial appointment, the dentist prepares the affected tooth by reshaping its outer surface. This creates space for the crown to fit seamlessly without appearing bulky or interfering with the bite. A precise impression of the prepared tooth is then taken, often using a digital scanner or traditional putty.
This impression serves as a detailed mold that is sent to a dental laboratory, where technicians custom-fabricate the permanent crown. While the permanent crown is being made, a temporary crown is placed over the prepared tooth. This temporary restoration protects the tooth from sensitivity and damage, and maintains the space until the second visit.
At the subsequent appointment, usually a few weeks later, the temporary crown is removed. The dentist checks the fit, bite, and color of the permanent crown to ensure it blends naturally. Once adjustments are complete, the permanent crown is cemented onto the tooth.
Caring for Your Crown
Maintaining good oral hygiene is important for the longevity and effectiveness of a dental crown. Regular brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste helps prevent decay from forming around the crown’s margin, where it meets the natural tooth structure. Daily flossing, particularly around the base of the crown, is also important for removing plaque and food particles that can accumulate in this area. Using an antimicrobial mouthwash can further reduce bacteria and contribute to overall gum health around the crowned tooth.
Exercising caution with certain foods can also extend the crown’s lifespan. It is advisable to avoid chewing on overly hard items like ice, hard candies, or unpopped popcorn kernels, as these could potentially chip or crack the crown material. Similarly, very sticky foods, such as caramels or gummy candies, can sometimes dislodge a crown if the cement bond is compromised. Routine dental check-ups and professional cleanings remain important for monitoring the crown’s condition. During these visits, dentists can identify and address any potential issues early, such as a loose fit, wear, or the development of decay around the crown.