What is a Dental Crown Used For?
A crown (also known as a cap) is a dental restoration designed to completely cover a damaged tooth. For somebody who is missing a large amount of tooth structure as a result of tooth decay, congenital disorders, tooth wear or traumatic injuries, a dental crown can be an excellent treatment option.
What is a dental crown and what is its purpose?
A dental crown is a secure way to fill gaps and help restore your smile if you have missing or damaged teeth. They can also be used for cosmetic purposes in order to improve your appearance.
Crowns are extremely versatile and are used in many situations, including:
- Repairing a severely decayed tooth
- Replacing a chipped or fractured tooth
- Restoring a tooth weakened by large fillings
- Covering and fortifying a tooth after a root canal
- Replacing a tooth using a dental implant
- Enhancing the appearance of problem teeth
What is a dental crown made of?
A crown protects the tooth mechanical, temperature, and chemical stresses, and can be made in three different materials, all-metal, ceramic-on-metal, and all-ceramic. The one that is best for you will depend on the reason for placing the crown, where the crown will be located in your mouth and whether or not the crown will be visible whenever you smile or speak.
When do you need a crown?
There are several dental problems that can be corrected with a crown. Here are a few:
- Dental crowns are frequently used to protect a tooth that has been weakened because of decay or breakage.
- If you have a cracked tooth, a crown can hold the parts together and prevent cleaving.
Unusually worn teeth can be rebuilt with dental crowns. - If a tooth-colored filling is not sufficient to repair a decayed tooth that has minimal structure left, then a dental crown is placed for coverage and support.
- Dental crowns are mounted on healthy teeth located on both sides of the gap in your smile in order to support a dental bridge. *The difference between a crown and a bridge*
- Cosmetically, a crown can be used to cover a tooth that is misshaped, severely discolored or in need of any other type of modification.
- Crowns are often the finishing touch after a dental implant has been set in the jawbone to replace a missing tooth.
How are dental crowns placed?
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Initial evaluation and presentation of treatment options to the patient.
As an initial step condition of the patient’s mouth and teeth is evaluated and appropriate recommendations and treatment options are discussed.
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Diagnostic planning and fabrication of prototype crowns.
This step is required in complex cases where there is a need to change the shape of the teeth, or alter the bite, etc. Typically, analog or digital models of the patient’s jaws are created and teeth with new improved shape are made in wax or on the computer.
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Crown preparation, impression procedure and placement of the provisional crown.
In this step, the tooth is prepared for a very specific shape and geometry in order to accept crown restoration.
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Fabrication and delivery of the permanent crowns.
Dental crown fabrication is a sophisticated process where a chosen material is formed to achieve specific shape, strength, and appearance. Once completed, the crown is evaluated in the mouth and permanently secured to the tooth with a dental adhesive.
What To Expect at Your First Dental Appointment
Dr. Elbrecht and his team’s first priority is to discuss the issues you’ve been having and determine your expectations. Next, he performs a careful physical examination of the tooth structure – its location, visibility, and interaction with your gums and neighboring teeth. Based on his findings, he will clearly explain your treatment options, and make a recommendation for you.
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