Dental crowns are recommended for a variety of dental issues. They can be used cosmetically to improve the appearance of a tooth or teeth, or they can also be used to provide stability, protection and strength to a tooth that has been compromised in some way.
Also known as caps, dental crowns are placed over the visible area of a tooth. Crowns restore the shape and size of the tooth while adding strength and stability. They also protect the weakened tooth from further damage.
They can be made out of metals, porcelain, resin and ceramics. Traditionally, it took a few visits to seat a crown, but with modern advancements in dental materials and technology, dentists can now fabricate some types of crowns right in the office so you can receive it in only one visit.
Types of Crowns
There are different types of crowns. Most people are familiar with the full crown, which is the type that fits over the entire tooth. Onlays and inlays are also types of crowns, but they only partially cover the tooth. These smaller crowns are used when there is still a good deal of healthy tooth structure remaining for support. Using an inlay or onlay is considered a conservative approach when only a cusp or part of a tooth needs to be treated.
Considerations for a Crown
Crowns are recommended for various reasons. Among them are:
- Protecting a tooth that has a very large filling
- Restoration of a tooth that has been broken or cracked
- Building up a tooth that has been severely worn down
- Covering and protecting a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy
- Covering a dental implant
- Holding a dental bridge in place
- Aesthetic reasons, such as covering a misshapen tooth
Your dentist may recommend a crown if you have a tooth that does not have sufficient tooth structure. Crowning such a tooth would prevent further breakage.
When a tooth is misshapen or badly discolored, a crown may be recommended to make it look more natural. Crowns are made to match the color of your natural teeth, so they blend in, enhancing your smile.
Jefferson Dental Care offers all the dental services you need to keep your smile healthy and looking bright. Contact us for more information about dental crowns or other dental requirements you may have.
Posted on behalf of Jefferson Dental Care
