Dental Crowns

Your smile is the window to your soul, and taking good care of it is essential. Whether you’ve experienced tooth damage or want to enhance the look of your smile, custom crowns could be the solution. This guide will provide insights into the world of custom crowns and help you determine the best fit for your unique smile.

What is a Dental Crown?

At its core, a dental crown is a cap placed over a tooth. It’s designed to restore the tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns can be used for various reasons, including tooth replacement (covering a dental implant), repairing a broken tooth, protecting a weak tooth, or making cosmetic modifications.

Why Choose Custom Crowns?

1. Perfect Fit: Every mouth and every tooth are different. Custom crowns are made to fit perfectly over your specific tooth, ensuring maximum comfort and functionality.
2. Long-lasting: Custom crowns can last a lifetime with proper care.
3. Aesthetic Appeal: Modern dentistry offers crowns that mimic the appearance of natural teeth, ensuring your smile remains genuine and beautiful.

Types of Dental Crowns

1. Ceramic: These are typically used for restoring front teeth due to their natural colour. They blend seamlessly with the natural tooth.
2. Porcelain-fused to metal: This offers a stronger bond than ceramic and provides strength to withstand biting forces.
3. Gold Alloys: Made of gold, copper, and other metals, these crowns provide a strong bond and won’t wear away the tooth itself.
4. Base Metal Alloys: Non-noble metals that are highly resistant to corrosion and make for a solid crown.

Benefits of Custom Crowns

Custom crowns have become increasingly popular in recent years and for a good reason. Here are a few additional benefits to consider:

1. Protection: Custom crowns protect your natural tooth from further damage, especially if it’s cracked, worn down, or weak.
2. Stain Resistant: Materials like porcelain resist stains, meaning your crown will remain white and bright.
3. Speech Improvement: Damaged or missing teeth can affect your speech. Crowns can help restore normal speech patterns.
4. Chewing Efficiency: You can bite and chew food like a natural tooth with a custom crown.

When is the Right Time for a Custom Crown?

Here are some situations where a crown might be recommended:

1. After a Root Canal: A crown adds strength once the tooth has been hollowed out and filled.
2. Large Filling: A crown will protect and preserve the remaining structure if there isn’t much of the tooth left.
3. Cracked Tooth Syndrome: For teeth that have tiny cracks, a crown can hold the tooth together and prevent pain.

Potential Drawbacks of Dental Crowns

While dental crowns are beneficial, it’s essential to be aware of potential downsides:

1. Sensitivity: Some people may experience sensitivity, especially to cold and hot temperatures, after getting a crown. This is temporary and can be managed with toothpaste for sensitive teeth.
2. Chipping: Porcelain crowns can sometimes chip. Small chips can be repaired without removing the crown, but more significant breaks may require replacement.
3. Loosening: Occasionally, the cement that holds the crown in place may wash out, allowing bacteria to leak in and cause decay.

Dental Crown Process

1. Consultation: The dentist evaluates the need for a crown and discusses options suitable for your dental health and aesthetic desires.
2. Preparation: The dentist will reshape the tooth, removing decay or damaged areas. A 3-dimensional digital scan of the prepared tooth and surrounding teeth is then made.
3. Fabrication: The scan is sent to a lab, where your custom crown is crafted.
4. Placement: Once the crown is ready, the dentist will fit and cement the crown over the prepared tooth.

Cost Considerations

The cost of a dental crown varies based on several factors:

1. Material: Gold crowns are more expensive than porcelain or ceramic ones.
2. Location: Dental procedures might cost more in large urban areas.
3. Dentist’s Expertise: A well-established dentist might charge more based on experience and expertise.

It’s essential to discuss costs with your dentist and check with your insurance provider about coverage.

Innovations in Crown Technology

Recent advancements have paved the way for even better crown solutions:

1. Same-day Crowns: With the help of CAD/CAM technology, some dentists now offer crowns in just one visit.
2. Better Materials: Newer materials are more durable and offer a more natural appearance.

Caring for Your Custom Crown

Maintaining your crown is as easy as taking care of your natural teeth. Here are some tips to ensure longevity:

1. Good Oral Hygiene: Regular brushing and flossing are vital. This prevents gum disease and tooth decay, which could affect the tooth beneath the crown.
2. Avoid Hard Foods: Chewing ice or hard candies can damage the crown.
3. Regular Dental Checkups: This ensures the crown is in good condition and meets your dental needs.

Final Thoughts

Dental crowns have become a reliable and aesthetic solution for various dental issues. Understanding the procedure, benefits, and potential drawbacks can help you make an informed decision. Please always consult your dentist to make sure you make the best choice for your dental health.