You’ve received the news– you may need a dental crown. But do you really know what this could mean for your mouth?
First, many people have crowns, and we simply explain it as being a specially-shaped cover, placed over a badly damaged, decayed, or discolored tooth. You may also hear it referred to as a dental cap. If you compare it to a dental filling; a filling just repairs or fills-in a portion of the tooth. The crown, or cap, is a form of restoration which becomes your tooth’s new outer surface.
Crowns are typically made ahead of time in a laboratory, and to the exact specifications, based on an impression taken of your tooth. Meantime, a prefabricated crown made of plastic or stainless steel, is often used on a temporary basis, until the permanent crown is ready to be cemented into place over your tooth. You’ll be able to use and care for it, just like a natural tooth.
What Are Dental Crowns Made Of?
Crowns can be made of:
- All metal
- Zirconia
- Porcelain fused to metal (PFM)
- Porcelain fused to zirconia
- All ceramic
Each material has its advantages and disadvantages, and our dental team will be able to help you decide which type is best for you.
Reasons You May Need a Dental Crown
And just as crown material may vary, the reason you may need one can too. If your tooth is broken or severely damaged by decay, and a filling can’t replace enough of the tooth or make it strong enough for a longer term, a crown will hold the parts of the tooth together under it. It can also be used to hold a bridge in place. And a crown can help improve appearance, by being placed over a poorly shaped, or badly discolored tooth.
In the end, a dental crown can be the best choice to restore and protect your tooth. It is also the best choice to support your overall health.