The Benefits of Dental Crowns: Protecting Your Teeth for a Lifetime

Introduction to Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are an excellent way to protect your teeth from further damage. Crowns can be used to cover a tooth that has been damaged by decay or injury or to support a tooth that has a large filling. Crowns are also used to improve the appearance of teeth that are discolored or misshapen.

Crowns are made from different materials, including porcelain, ceramic, and metal. Your dentist will help you choose the right material for your needs. Porcelain and ceramic crowns are usually used for front teeth, while metal crowns are typically used for back teeth.

The procedure for getting a dental crown is fairly simple. First, your dentist will clean and prepare your tooth. Next, they will take an impression of your tooth so that the crown can be custom-made to fit. Once the crown is ready, your dentist will bond it in place with dental cement.

Crowns can last for many years with proper care. Be sure to brush and floss regularly and see your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings

Types of Dental Crowns and When They’re Used

There are several types of dental crowns, and they’re used for different purposes. Here are the most common types of dental crowns and when they’re used:

1. Porcelain dental crowns are used to improve the appearance of your teeth. They’re also used to protect your teeth from further damage.

2. Stainless steel dental crowns are typically used for children with primary teeth that are damaged or decayed. They’re also used for adults who have temporary teeth while they wait for their permanent teeth to come in.

3. Zirconia dental crowns are made from a strong, durable material that looks natural. They’re often used in place of porcelain crowns.

4. Gold dental crowns are made from a mix of metals, including gold, copper, and other metals. They’re strong and durable, making them a good choice for people with heavy biting forces.

Benefits of Dental Crowns

There are many benefits to dental crowns, and they vary depending on the individual. In general, dental crowns can:

Protect a tooth from further damagePrevent a tooth from breaking or splitting

Improve the appearance of a tooth
Make a tooth easier to clean
Help restore a chewing surface

Care and Maintenance for Your Dental Crown

Your dental crown should last you many years, but it is important to take care of it to ensure its longevity. Here are some tips for caring for your dental crown:

Brush and floss your teeth regularly. This will help remove plaque and bacteria from around your dental crown and prevent decay. See your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. Your dentist can check for any problems with your dental crown and make sure it is still in good shape.

Avoid chewing hard foods or biting your nails. This can stress your dental crown and cause it to break or come loose. If you need to chew hard foods, cut them into smaller pieces first.

Alternatives to a Dental Crown

If you are not a good candidate for a dental crown or if you are looking for alternatives to a dental crown, there are several options available. These include:

Dental veneers: Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells that are bonded to the front of your teeth. They can be used to improve the appearance of your smile and protect your teeth from further damage.

Dental bonding: Dental bonding is a process in which a tooth-colored resin is applied to the surface of your tooth and then hardened with a special light. This can help improve the appearance of your smile and protect your tooth from further damage.

Inlays and onlays: Inlays and onlays are made of porcelain or composite material that is bonded to the surface of your tooth. They can be used to restore damaged teeth and improve the appearance of your smile.

Tooth implants: Tooth implants are titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone to act as replacement roots for missing teeth. They can be used to support artificial teeth (such as dentures) or to hold a dental crown in place.

The Ending Thought

Dental crowns are a great way to protect your teeth and restore them to their original condition. They can also be used in cases where other treatments may not work, such as severe decay or discoloration. The benefits of dental crowns include protection from further damage, improved appearance, increased strength and durability, and the ability to maintain healthy oral hygiene for years to come. With proper care and maintenance, you can enjoy the many benefits of dental crowns for a lifetime.