A dental crown is nothing like a royal crown, but in dentistry terms, it’s similar. It’s a form of protective cover for a cracked, decayed, or weakened tooth. Dental crowns restore both the look and function of damaged teeth, making them stronger and more durable. They come in different materials, each with a unique appearance and cost. Tooth crown price varies depending on the material—ranging from affordable options like metal to more natural-looking, higher-cost options like porcelain or zirconia. So what does it actually look like? Let’s break it down!
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is similar to a “hat” custom designed for your tooth. It caps over a damaged tooth to restore the shape, size, and strength. Crowns are often used to save teeth that have been damaged too severely to be filled or to enhance the esthetic appearance of a tooth. Once the crown is in place, the tooth is protected, and you can use it normally again.
Crowns are made from several materials, each with its own advantages based on where the crown will be located and what it must do.
Types of Dental Crowns
1. Porcelain CrownsThese crowns match the color of your natural tooth and are suitable for your visible teeth. Because they chip with pressure, they’re best for teeth with less wear.
2. Ceramic CrownsCeramic crowns are like porcelain. They can be a good choice for patients with a metal allergy. Front teeth are the best with them, but it’s not as strong as metal.
3. Metal CrownsMade from gold or other metals, these are the strongest and best for back teeth, but they’re noticeable and mostly used out of sight.
4. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns (PFM)Combining metal strength with a porcelain outer layer for a natural look, these are great for molars but can show metal at the gumline over time.
5. Zirconia CrownsThese crowns are made from zirconium dioxide, and they look natural and are strong and long-lasting, not only for back teeth but also for front teeth.
Getting a Crown: What’s the Procedure?
Now that you know what crowns are made of, let’s talk about what the process of getting one is like. The procedure generally requires two separate visits to your dentist’s office to get dental crown.
1. Visit One: Preparing the Tooth
When you visit your dentist for a crown, they will first evaluate the tooth and then determine whether a crown is the best treatment for you. If the tooth is adversely affected, the dentist will remove the decay and shape the tooth to prepare it for the crown. The dentist might even make impressions of your tooth or use a digital scan to create a custom mold for the crown. Your dentist will install a temporary crown to protect the tooth until your return visit to receive your permanent crown.
2. Visit Two: Placement of Permanent Crown
Once the permanent crown is ready, you will return to the dentist and see your new smile! The temporary crown will be removed, and the dentist will check the fit of the permanent one. If everything looks good, the permanent crown is bonded onto your tooth with a hard dental adhesive. And that’s it! You can now enjoy your restored tooth with its perfect appearance and feeling, similar to a natural tooth.
How Will a Crown Look in Life?
It should look like a real tooth and feel like one, too. Porcelain and ceramic crowns are made to blend in with the rest of your teeth. If everything is done correctly, no one can even notice that you have a crown. They can also customize a shade to match the color of the rest of your teeth. Metal crowns are much more visible and are generally applied to molars in the back, as they are hardly noticeable when you smile.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
The durability of the crown is purely based on the type of material used and your oral hygiene. Porcelain and ceramic crowns last for 10-15 years given regular dental care, while metal and zirconia crowns last up to 20 years and even more. Brushing, flossing, and regular visits to the dentist will ensure that this crown lasts for many years in good function and appearance.
The Bottom Line
A crown might not resemble a sparkly royal tiara, but it is an effective aid to fix broken teeth. Whether porcelain, metal, or zirconia, a dental crown can give your teeth both the function and appearance of your teeth, so you can smile with confidence. Attaining one is relatively easy, and once it is fitted, your tooth will be good as new. If you’re dealing with a broken or weakened tooth, a crown might just be the solution you need!