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At URBN Dental, we understand that maintaining the health and appearance of your teeth is essential for a confident smile and overall oral well-being. Dental crowns, often referred to as “tooth caps,” play a crucial role in restoring damaged teeth and enhancing your smile. We provide you with everything you need to know about dental crowns, the procedure, and the different types of dental crowns available.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that is placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its strength, shape, size, and appearance. Crowns are an excellent solution for various dental issues, including:
- Tooth Decay: Dental crowns are used to protect and strengthen teeth that have severe decay or cavities that cannot be resolved with a simple filling.
- Cracked or Broken Teeth: Teeth that are cracked or broken due to injury or excessive wear can benefit from the support and protection provided by dental crowns.
- After a Root Canal: Following a root canal procedure, a dental crown is often placed to strengthen the remaining tooth structure and prevent further damage.
- Cosmetic Enhancement: Dental crowns are used for cosmetic purposes to improve the appearance of discolored, misshapen, or poorly aligned teeth.
- Support for Dental Implants: Crowns are an integral component of dental implant restorations, serving as the visible part of the replacement tooth.
- Protection for Weak Teeth: Teeth that are weak due to severe wear or structural issues can be reinforced with dental crowns.
Types of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are available in various materials, each with its unique advantages. The choice of material depends on your specific dental needs, budget, and aesthetic preferences. Here are the most commonly used types of dental crowns:
1. Porcelain Crowns
Porcelain crowns are known for their natural appearance, mimicking the translucency and color of your teeth. They are an excellent choice for front teeth and cosmetic enhancements. Porcelain crowns can be customized to blend seamlessly with your teeth.
2. Metal Crowns
Metal crowns, typically made of gold or stainless steel, are incredibly durable and long-lasting. They are suitable for molars and teeth that endure significant chewing forces. Metal crowns rarely chip or break and are an excellent choice for posterior teeth.
3. Porcelain Fused to Metal (PFM) Crowns
Porcelain fused to metal crowns combine the strength of metal with the aesthetic appeal of porcelain. They are versatile and can be used for both front and back teeth. However, there is a slight risk of the porcelain portion chipping over time. We offer porcelain fused to metal crowns for the front teeth.
4. Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia crowns or all-ceramic crowns are renowned for their strength and durability. They are an ideal choice for restoring damaged or severely worn teeth. Zirconia crowns also provide excellent support for dental bridges.
5. All-Porcelain Crowns
All-porcelain crowns are a popular choice for their natural look and biocompatibility. They are metal-free, making them suitable for patients with metal allergies. All-porcelain crowns are often used for highly visible front teeth.
The Dental Crown Procedure
The dental crown procedure typically involves multiple steps, which may require two separate visits to the dentist. Here is a detailed breakdown of the process:
1. Examination and Diagnosis
During your initial office visit, the dentist will thoroughly examine your tooth to assess the extent of damage or decay. X-rays may be taken to evaluate the tooth’s root and surrounding tissues.
2. Tooth Preparation
Once a dental crown is deemed necessary, the dentist will prepare the affected tooth. This involves removing any damaged or decayed portions, shaping the tooth to accommodate the crown, and taking impressions of the prepared tooth.
3. Temporary Crown Placement
While the final crown is being crafted in a dental laboratory, a temporary crown will be placed over the prepared tooth. This temporary restoration protects the tooth and maintains your dental function and appearance.
4. Crown Fabrication
The dental impressions are sent to a dental laboratory, where skilled technicians craft your permanent crown. This process ensures that the crown fits precisely and matches the exact shape and color of your natural teeth.
5. Final Crown Placement
Once your permanent crown is ready, you will return to the dentist’s office for the final crown placement. The temporary crown is removed, and the permanent crown is carefully fitted and secured in place using dental cement.
6. Evaluation and Adjustments
The dentist will assess your bite and ensure that the crown fits perfectly within your dental arch. Any necessary adjustments will be made to guarantee proper function and comfort.
Caring for Your Dental Crown
Maintaining your dental crown is essential for its longevity and your oral health. Here are some tips on how to care for your dental crown:
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Continue to brush and floss your crowned tooth, just as you would with your teeth, to prevent gum disease and decay.
- Avoid Chewing Ice: Refrain from chewing on hard objects, such as ice cubes, as it can potentially damage your crown.
- Watch for Signs of Trouble: If you experience any discomfort, notice a loose crown, or suspect any issues with your crowned tooth, contact your dentist immediately.
- Regular Dental Check-ups: Visit your dentist for routine check-ups to ensure the crown and the surrounding teeth remain in good condition.
Common Issues with Dental Crowns
While dental crowns are durable and reliable, they may encounter occasional problems, such as:
- Loose Crown: If you feel that your crown is loose, avoid further manipulation and contact your dentist promptly for re-cementation.
- Chipped Crown: In rare cases, a crown may chip or break. If this happens, save any crown fragments and contact your dentist for repair or replacement.
- Allergic Reactions: Patients with metal allergies should opt for metal-free crown options, like zirconia or all-porcelain crowns, to avoid allergic reactions.
- Adjacent Teeth: Crowns can impact the alignment of adjacent teeth, requiring further dental adjustments.
Dental Insurance and Crowns
Dental insurance plans often cover a portion of the cost of dental crowns, especially if the procedure is necessary for your oral health. However, coverage may vary, so it’s essential to check with your insurance provider to understand your benefits.
Same-Day Crowns or Immediate Dental Crown
Some advanced dental practices offer same-day crowns, also known as CEREC crowns. These crowns are fabricated using computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology, allowing for a quicker turnaround time. Patients can have their teeth prepared and receive the final crown all in one visit.
Visit URBN Dental for a New Crown
Dental crowns are a versatile and essential dental treatment that can restore the function and aesthetics of damaged teeth. At URBN Dental, we are committed to providing you with the highest quality dental care and the most appropriate crown type to suit your unique needs. We offer numerous types of dental crowns, including porcelain fused to metal crowns and gold crowns. Whether you require a porcelain crown for a cosmetic enhancement or a metal crown for a molar, we have the expertise and experience to ensure your dental crown procedure is a success.
Remember to maintain good oral hygiene and attend regular dental check-ups to keep your crowned teeth and natural teeth in optimal condition. Your smile is our priority, and we are here to help you achieve and maintain the best possible oral health. If you need a dental crown or have any questions about the procedure, contact us today to schedule an appointment with our experienced dental team. You can visit our state-of-the-art dental offices in Midtown Houston, Uptown Houston, Montrose, and other parts of Houston.