A dental crown is a tooth-shaped covering that is placed over a damaged and decayed tooth to prevent further decay and restore the tooth’s shape, size, and appearance. At Healing Wings Dental, this procedure is often used to protect a tooth that is damaged due to a large cavity, or a crack or chip.
The crown is custom-made to fit your mouth and mouth’s unique shape. The dentist will take an impression of your teeth, and that will be sent to a laboratory to create your crown. The crown is cemented to your tooth on top of the damaged tooth and restores the appearance and function of your tooth.
What Are Dental Crowns Made Of?
In the past, dental crowns were typically made of gold. This made getting a dental crown a more expensive option. Fortunately, dental crowns are more affordable now, and they’re also stronger and more durable than before.
Modern dental porcelain looks remarkably like natural tooth enamel. Porcelain can be tinted to match the color of your tooth enamel, and glazed, so it’s less likely to chip or crack. Porcelain can also be fused with metal, which strengthens it.
Types of Dental Crowns
There are two types of dental crowns: full and partial. Full dental crowns are used to cover a tooth that has received significant decay, has had a root canal or has had a previous large filling. Partial crowns are used when a tooth is cracked or chipped. These crowns are cemented in place on the tooth or teeth next to the flawed tooth.
The Dental Crowns Procedure
Your dentist may shape your tooth by removing enamel. Or, if your tooth is decayed, your dentist will clean out the cavity before placing the crown. If the decayed area is too large, your dentist may place a temporary crown. Your dentist will later place a permanent crown over the temporary crown.
The Benefits of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are versatile dental restorations. They cover damaged teeth, add strength to worn teeth, and improve the appearance of misshapen teeth. Dental crowns encase the entire visible portion of a tooth, protecting it from further damage and restoring its strength, functioning, and shape.
How Long Will a Dental Crown Last?
A dental crown should last between five and 15 years, depending on certain factors, including oral hygiene and diet. Dental crowns are not designed to last a lifetime, but with proper dental care, they can last many years. While dental crowns may not be permanent, they are an excellent choice for restoring a tooth.
To discover more about the pros of dental crowns, visit Healing Wings Dental at 4101 West Green Oaks Blvd Suite 317, Arlington 76016, or call (972) 213-0202.
