What is a Dental Crown?
Dental crowns are a widely used solution for restoring teeth that have been severely damaged or decayed.
DEntal Crown
24 January 2023
Dental crowns are an effective solution for restoring damaged or decayed teeth. They are designed to fit over the entire visible portion of a tooth, covering it and providing a natural-looking and functional replacement. Crowns can be made of different materials such as porcelain, metal or a combination of both. The material chosen will depend on the tooth’s location, function and the patient’s preference. The process of creating a custom-made crown starts with taking an impression of the prepared tooth, which is then sent to a dental laboratory where it is fabricated to match the shape, size, and colour of the natural teeth. The final product looks almost indistinguishable from the real tooth, making it a great option for cosmetic purposes. Crowns are used to cover dental implants, support a dental bridge, and protect a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy. Additionally, dental crowns can be used for cosmetic purposes, to change the shape or colour of a tooth. They are a good option for teeth that have been severely damaged or decayed and can’t be restored with fillings or inlays.
Why are Dental Crowns Needed?
Dental crowns are a widely used solution for restoring teeth that have been severely damaged or decayed. They are designed to fit over the entire visible portion of a tooth, providing a natural-looking and functional replacement. Crowns are often used when a tooth is beyond repair from fillings or inlays and needs to be protected from further damage. They are also used to cover dental implants, which are artificial tooth roots used to support a dental bridge or replacement teeth. Crowns can also be used to protect a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy, a procedure that removes the infected or damaged pulp from the tooth. Furthermore, dental crowns are also commonly used for cosmetic purposes, they can change the shape or colour of a tooth, improving the overall appearance of the smile. The material chosen for the crown will depend on the tooth’s location, function, and the patient’s preference. Overall, dental crowns are a reliable and long-lasting solution for restoring the strength and appearance of damaged teeth.
How are Dental Crowns Placed?
A dental crown, also known as a cap, is a type of dental restoration that completely covers a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are typically made of porcelain, metal, or a combination of both.
The process of placing a dental crown typically involves the following steps:
- Consultation: The dentist will examine the tooth and discuss the patient’s goals and expectations for the treatment.
- Preparation: The tooth will be prepared by removing any decay or damaged areas and shaping the tooth to make room for the crown.
- Impressions/Scan: The dentist will take an impression of the prepared tooth or a scan with a 3D scanner, which will be sent to a dental laboratory to create a custom-made crown.
- Temporary Crown: A temporary crown will be placed over the prepared tooth to protect it while the permanent crown is being made.
- Cementing: Once the permanent crown is ready, the dentist will remove the temporary crown and clean and etch the tooth surface. Then the permanent crown will be placed over the tooth and cemented in place.
- Adjustment: The dentist will check the bite and make any necessary adjustments to the crown to ensure a comfortable and proper fit.
Difference Between Veneers and Crowns
Crowns and veneers are both dental restorations used to improve the appearance and function of teeth. However, there are some key differences between the two.
- Purpose: Crowns are used to restore teeth that have been severely damaged or decayed and cannot be restored with fillings or inlays. Veneers, on the other hand, are used to improve the appearance of teeth by covering the front surface of the tooth to correct issues such as discolouration, chips, gaps, and misalignment.
- Preparation: Crowns typically require more preparation than veneers. To place a crown, the tooth must be shaped to make room for restoration, while veneers typically require minimal tooth reduction.
- Material: Crowns can be made of a variety of materials such as porcelain, metal, or a combination of both, while veneers are typically made of porcelain or composite resin.
- Longevity: Crowns are generally more durable and long-lasting than veneers, as they cover the entire tooth, whereas veneers only cover the front surface of the tooth.
- Cost: Crowns are typically more expensive than veneers because of the additional materials, preparation, and labour required.
Ultimately, the choice between a crown and a veneer will depend on the specific needs and goals of the patient, as well as the condition of the tooth. Book your appointment with us so we will be able to evaluate the situation and suggest the best option.
The Potential Risks and Complications Associated with Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are a commonly used method for repairing and restoring teeth that have been damaged or decayed. They serve as a natural-looking and functional replacement for the entire visible portion of the tooth. However, similar to any dental treatment, dental crowns may come with certain potential risks and complications. This is why it is crucial to consult with a dentist to properly evaluate the issue before proceeding with the procedure.
Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to the materials used in dental crowns, such as metal or acrylic. In such cases, an allergic reaction can occur, causing redness, itching, or swelling. If you have a known allergy to any dental materials, it’s important to let your dentist know before the procedure.
Sensitivity: After getting a dental crown, some people may experience increased tooth sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures. This is usually temporary and should subside within a few weeks.
Infection: In rare cases, an infection can occur at the site of the dental crown. This can occur if bacteria get into the tooth during the procedure. This can be treated with antibiotics, but if left untreated, it can lead to an abscess.
Fracture: Dental crowns are made to be durable, but they can still fracture or chip. This can happen if the tooth is already weak or if the crown is placed on a tooth that has not been properly prepared.
Ill-fitting: If the dental crown is not properly fitted or cemented, it can cause issues such as pain, discomfort, or tooth decay. It’s important to have the dental crown checked and adjusted if necessary by your dentist.
It’s important to note that the above-mentioned risks and complications are rare and can be avoided by choosing an experienced and qualified dentist for the procedure.
The Innovative Dental Edge
If you require dental crowns, choose a practice with years of experience, advanced equipment and staff that are committed to achieving the best results for you.
At Innovative Dental Invisalign, we utilize the latest technology to gain an in-depth understanding of your oral health. To book your appointment today, contact us on (03) 9346 8333 or click here to make an online booking.