A dental crown is a versatile restoration. Crowns are tooth-shaped restorations that are bonded over existing tooth structure. They protect all visible tooth structure from bacteria and acid while reinforcing damage from chips, cracks, and tooth wear. When made from tooth-colored materials, a dental crown can revitalize a person’s smile by concealing imperfections, too.
Restoring Broken and Diseased Teeth
With exposure to acid, years of chewing food, and the prevalence of tooth decay, it’s no wonder that teeth require restorations. A dental crown is a common treatment option for protecting teeth that have developed extensive decay and weak spots from wear and tear.
Sometimes, teeth become chipped and cracked – especially if tooth enamel is weak. Having a dental crown placed is a great way to reinforce weak tooth structure and restore a tooth to its original shape and size.
Foregoing a crown when its recommended could lead to the development of painful abscesses and even tooth loss.
The Fabrication of Dental Crowns
There are a number of materials from which crowns can be made. The most common materials for fabricating crowns are porcelain, porcelain fused to metal, and all metal. Silver, gold, and zirconium are popular metals used for custom dental restorations.
Dental crowns must be custom made so that they perfectly accommodate a patient’s needs and anatomy. Crowns are constructed by dental technicians to very exact specifications. Creating crowns takes a few weeks but the end result is a durable restoration that can protect a tooth for years to come.
Improving a Tooth’s Aesthetic with a Dental Crown
Since these restorations cover the biting surfaces and all sides of a tooth down to the gums, it’s important to know that choosing tooth-colored materials like porcelain produces an aesthetically pleasing, natural-looking result.
When porcelain crowns are placed, they’re indistinguishable from natural tooth structure. Beyond protecting weakened teeth, this means that porcelain crowns can conceal issues like permanent stains and dental damage.
We are accepting new patients. If you’re in need of a restoration, call our practice to reserve a consultation with our dentist.
