Crown & Bridges

WHAT ARE DENTAL CROWNS?

Dental Crowns can be identified as a tooth-shaped cap that is placed on the tooth to restore the shape, size, and appearance of the tooth. It can also enhance the strength of the tooth. The crown is the best solution if the major part of the tooth is missing. By placing the crown, a tooth can re-function normally again.

WHEN IS DENTAL CROWN NEEDED?

  • Protect or fix a tooth from fracturing due to accident or trauma
  • Replace a tooth that is too large for a filling
  • Get a cap over the Implant placed
  • Repair the tooth on which RCT was performed
  • Cover discolored, misshaped, or badly formed tooth
  • Require a bridge in that case crowns are a must

Further, Dental Crown has the ability to give your tooth the strength, shape, size and to improve the appearance of your tooth. If your dentist has advised you to get a crown and you are delaying the process then the chances are, your tooth can get further damaged to the extent that extraction is the final option.

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WHAT ARE VARIOUS TYPES OF DENTAL CROWNS?

Dental Crowns can be made in variety come in various materials such as:

Metal Crowns

If someone is looking for long term and durable solution then metal crowns are to the rescue. The gold crowns in these are the most used and bond well with the tooth. These can even withstand hard chewing forces and biting. Being stronger they last longer and do not get fractured easily. The only drawback is that they are visible from a distance hence, suitable only for molars.

Porcelain-Fused-To-Metal

If you are someone who is having aesthetic concerns and also wish to have metal crowns inserted, this is what you are looking for. The inside of the teeth is made up of metal and the outer portion of the crown is made of porcelain, as a result, it has the dual advantage – metal which provides strength, and porcelain which matches the color of the teeth making it look like natural teeth. They absolutely look like natural teeth.

Ceramic Crown

If you do not intend to have metal inserted inside your mouth but require the strength to match metal crowns then go for ceramic crowns. Ceramic Crown is strong and blends more naturally with your tooth color making it invisible. It does not have any aesthetic concerns and is the best option for the front, back and even for the bridges. The issue when it comes to porcelain is wearing down and metal being visible is solved by this Dental Crown. They may not be considered as an option for molars because forces applied while biting can wear down your teeth.

DO’S AND DON’TS WITH DENTAL CROWNS

DO’S

  • Since the natural teeth are still beneath the crown and are vulnerable to decay, it is vital to maintain good oral hygiene. Brushing, rinsing and flossing should be done properly regularly.
  • If you clench your teeth, then it is recommended to use a mouthguard to protect your crown and this also does not allow your teeth to wear down.
  • Get this treatment done only by a dental expert who is trained in placing dental implants. Poor placement of crowns can reduce the longevity of crowns.
  • Meet your dentist every 6 months to ensure that your oral health is in the best care.

DON’TS

  • Avoid using your teeth as tools as this will put pressure and will damage the crown
  • Avoid nail-biting and chewing pencils
  • Do not chew ice or candy 
  • Avoid sticky food
  • Do not consume too hot or too cold food as this might cause sensitivity

 

MYTHS ABOUT DENTAL CROWNS

 

Dental Crowns Do Not Look Natural

Some say that dental crowns do not match with your teeth thus give the impression of an artificial tooth. However, modern technology has paved the way for crowns to come in various material which looks exactly like your natural teeth. And even metal crowns are a good and viable option since they are used as molars and are never seen.

Crowns Last Forever

Though the crowns are now stronger and have longevity, yet they cannot last forever. It depends on how well they are taken care of. Visit your dentist after every 6 months to keep it lasting, your dentist will monitor your crown and will replace it timely.

Food And Beverage Stains The Crown

This is possibly the biggest myth that people spread. It is believed that food and beverages can stain their teeth with time but the reality is, the crowns are made of porcelain and ceramic which do not stain easily.

Only Used For Restorative Dentistry

Some say that one gets a crown only if they have a fractured tooth, have undergone root canal treatment, or have broken or chipped a tooth. But in reality, they are used in cosmetic dentistry as a way to enhance the appearance and to have a whiter and beautiful smile.

Dental Crowns Do Not Break Or Chip

Though ceramic and porcelain are harder substances yet if you bite on something extremely hard, or face an accident or trauma then your crown may be at risk of breaking.

You Cannot Get Cavity With Crowns

Because the crown covers your tooth, they become vulnerable to decay. Though crowns, as they are artificial, have no chances of decay yet only the part below them can decay. Therefore, you will be required to keep your teeth and the area around clean to prevent a cavity.