Let's discover everything about Dental Crowns
Did you know that over 15 million dental crowns are placed in the US each year? These versatile restorations are a popular choice for repairing and enhancing smiles. But with so many options available, you might be wondering: What type of crown is right for me? How long will it last? This comprehensive guide to dental crowns will answer these questions and more.
Why are Dental Crowns Needed?
Dental crowns are used in a variety of situations. Here are a few common reasons why someone might need a crown.
● Severely Cracked or Broken Tooth: When a crack or break compromises a significant portion of a tooth's structure, a dental crown is necessary to reinforce the tooth and prevent further fracture or potential tooth loss.
● Extensive Decay: When a tooth has a deep cavity that could damage its integrity, getting a crown can prevent the need for extraction and help preserve the natural tooth structure.
● Root Canal Treatment: After a root canal procedure, a crown is often needed to protect the weakened tooth and restore its chewing ability due to the brittleness that can occur.
● Cosmetic Enhancement: Crowns can be used to improve the appearance of discolored, misshapen, or misaligned teeth, resulting in a more uniform and aesthetically pleasing smile.
Types of Dental Crowns:
There are several types of dental crowns available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:
● Metal Crowns: Metal crowns are a strong and durable type of dental restoration made of metals like gold or silver. They are less popular nowadays due to their noticeable metallic appearance. However, they are still used in some cases for restoring teeth in the back of the mouth.
● Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns: Dental crowns are a popular choice for restoring damaged teeth, as they offer a strong and aesthetically pleasing solution. They typically consist of a metal base layer fused with a layer of porcelain that closely resembles natural teeth in color and texture. However, over time, the metal band may become visible near the gumline, which can affect the overall appearance of the crown. It is important to keep this in mind when considering dental crowns as a treatment option.
● Pressed Ceramic Crowns: Ceramic crowns are an excellent choice if you're looking for a dental restoration that provides exceptional aesthetic appeal. These crowns are made entirely from high-quality ceramic material, which mimics the natural look and feel of your teeth. However, it's worth noting that ceramic crowns may not be as durable as other materials, so they may not be the best choice if you're looking for a long-lasting solution for your teeth.
● All-Ceramic or Porcelain Crowns: Similar to pressed ceramic crowns, these are highly aesthetic but might not be suitable for teeth subjected to high biting forces.
● Same-Day Dental Crowns: Technological advancements have made it possible to create single-visit crowns using computer-aided design (CAD) and manufacturing (CAM) techniques.
● All-Resin Crowns: Resin crowns are a cost-effective but temporary solution, less durable than other materials.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
Generally, dental crowns can stay intact for anywhere between 5 to 15 years or even longer, but it all comes down to the following factors that influence its durability
● Crown Material: Metal crowns are the most durable, followed by PFM and zirconia crowns. All ceramic and all-resin crowns may require replacement sooner.
● Location in the Mouth: Teeth at the back of the mouth, called molars, experience more chewing pressure than teeth at the front. This can cause a crown placed on a molar to have a shorter lifespan compared to a crown placed on a front tooth.
● Oral Hygiene: It's important to brush and floss regularly, and get dental check-ups to maintain good crown health. Doing so can help prevent issues that might require replacement.
● Bruxism (Teeth Grinding or Clenching): If you grind your teeth at night, you might put too much pressure on a crown in your mouth, which could lead to cracks or fractures. Night guards can protect your crowns from this.
● Crown Quality and Fit: A crown that is well-made and properly fitted is more likely to last longer.
● Overall Oral Health: Oral health problems, such as gum disease, can weaken the crown and underlying tooth structure. This can affect their strength and durability over time.
To make your dental crowns last as long as possible, it's important to take good care of your teeth and attend regular dental appointments. You can do this by practicing good oral hygiene, managing bruxism, and consulting with your dentist if you have any questions or concerns about crown care or material options. Remember, by following these simple steps, you can significantly increase the lifespan of your dental crowns. To make your tooth crown last as long as possible, it's important to take good care of your teeth and attend regular dental appointments. You can do this by practicing good oral hygiene, managing bruxism, and consulting with your dentist if you have any questions or concerns about crown care or material options.
Conclusion
Dental crowns are versatile dental restorations that can address various functional and cosmetic needs. If you have a damaged, weakened, or unsightly tooth, a crown might be the perfect solution to restore its health and beauty. By understanding the available types of crowns and the factors that affect their lifespan, you can make an informed decision with your dentist about a treatment plan that suits your needs.