Dental Crowns

 

What is a Dental Crown?

 

Dental crowns, also known as ‘caps’ cover an entire visible tooth. Teeth that require dental crowns are usually broken, lost old and large fillings, bad tooth decay or severally discolored.

 

A dental crown improves the structure of the tooth. If the entire surface of the tooth has issues but the root of the tooth is intact, a crown may be the ideal solution.

 

A tooth will be reduced in size to give room for the new crown to cover the tooth.   A temporary crown is used to cover the tooth until the final crown is made. The new crown is then fitted to the reduced tooth.

 

It is important to look after the dental crown just as you would look after your own natural teeth. Looking after your dental crown will ensure it lasts as long as possible. Continue to brush twice daily and floss once a day.

 

There are a few different types of dental crowns:

 

Porcelain/Zirconium Crown – typically used for the front teeth as they have a shine similar to your natural teeth.
Zirconium is exceptionally strong and will not grey over time making it ideal to use where aesthetics are critical.

 

Porcelain and metal crowns – is a crown with a metal base with a porcelain lining. This will still give you a natural look while making the tooth stronger. This option is used when a stronger material option is needed.

 

Gold crowns – the strongest and most durable options of all the crowns. Gold can wear like a natural tooth would. This option is commonly used for those who grind their teeth or if you need to crown one of the back teeth.