If you have a damaged tooth, the likelihood is that you want it repaired, both to resume its functionality, but also to restore its natural look. When you're faced with tooth damage or decay, our dentist, Dr. Jae Seon Kim may suggest a dental crown as an effective treatment option.
WHAT IS A DENTAL CROWN?
Dental crowns, sometimes called caps because of the way they cover your tooth, are custom-made to encase the entire tooth surface, restoring it to its original shape and size.
They offer a dual benefit: improved aesthetic appearance and restoration of tooth functionality.
Dental crowns are typically suggested by dentists to address dental issues, such as:
| • | Protecting a weak tooth from breaking further or holding together parts of a cracked tooth |
| • | Restoring a broken tooth or an extensively decayed tooth when a filling isn't sufficient |
| • | Covering a dental implant or a tooth with a root canal treatment
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| • | Masking a severely discolored or misshaped tooth |
Dental Crown Placement
A dental crown placement is a multi-step process that begins with a consultation with our dentist.
During this initial visit, our dentist will examine your oral health to determine if a crown is the best solution for your dental issue. This could involve taking X-rays to assess the roots of the tooth receiving the crown and the surrounding bone.
In cases where the tooth has extensive decay or there is a risk of infection or injury, a root canal may be performed before the crown placement.
If necessary, we will also reshape the tooth to prepare it for the dental crown. This involves trimming down the tooth along the chewing surface and sides to make room for the crown.
Once the tooth is properly reshaped, we will take an impression of the tooth, as well as those surrounding it. This can be done either with a paste, putty or digitally with a scanner.
This impression is then sent to a dental lab where your crown will be custom-made.
While your permanent crown is being made, which usually takes about two weeks, we will place a temporary crown to protect the prepared tooth.
Once your permanent crown is ready, you will have a second appointment to place it. Our dentist will remove your temporary crown and check the fit and color of the permanent crown.
If everything looks and fits properly, we will use a local anesthetic to numb the tooth and the new crown will be permanently cemented in place.
Following the procedure, some sensitivity and discomfort are normal, but these should subside within a few days. Our dental staff will provide you with specific aftercare instructions to ensure the longevity of your new dental crown.
Regular check-ups and good oral hygiene are essential for maintaining your new dental crown and overall oral health.
DENTAL CROWN MATERIALS
Dental crowns can be made from a variety of materials such as porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of these materials, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Porcelain or ceramic crowns are popular due to their natural appearance.
They can be color-matched to your existing teeth, making them a great choice for front teeth. However, they are not as strong as other materials and may not be suitable for back teeth that require more strength for chewing and grinding.
Metal crowns, including gold alloy, palladium, nickel, or chromium, are extremely durable and can withstand biting and chewing forces well.
They last longer than other types of crowns. However, their metallic color makes them more noticeable, which is why they are usually used for out-of-sight molars.
Porcelain fused to metal crowns offers a good balance between durability and aesthetics.
They have a metal structure for strength and are covered with porcelain for a natural appearance. However, sometimes the metal under the crown's porcelain cap can show through as a dark line.
Resin crowns are the least expensive option, but they wear down over time and are more prone to fractures compared to other crown types.
Zirconia crowns are a newer option that combines the strength of metal with the aesthetics of porcelain. They can be color-matched to your teeth and are strong enough to be used on any tooth.
Lastly, there are stainless steel crowns, which are typically used as a temporary measure. They are often used on children's teeth or while a more permanent crown is being made.
Temporary crowns are made from an acrylic-based material or stainless steel.
Benefits of a Dental Crown
Dental crowns have many benefits for protecting and preserving your teeth.
A dental crown can restore the shape, size, and strength of a tooth. It can help to protect a weak tooth from breaking or holding together parts of a cracked tooth.
This makes it beneficial for those with damaged teeth, as it can prevent further damage and the need for more extensive dental work.
Dental crowns can also be used to cover and support a tooth with a large filling when there isn't much of the original tooth left. This can help to preserve the remaining tooth structure and prevent further decay or damage. It's also beneficial for those who have had root canal treatment, as it can protect the restored tooth.
Another benefit of a dental crown is that it can improve the appearance of a tooth.
Crowns can be made to match the color of your natural teeth, and they can cover misshapen or severely discolored teeth. This makes them a popular choice for cosmetic dental work.
Dental crowns can also help with functional issues, such as chewing and speaking. If a tooth is damaged or missing, it can make these tasks difficult.
A crown can restore the tooth's function, making it easier to eat and speak.
Dental crowns are durable and can last for many years with proper care. This makes them a long-term solution for many dental issues. However, they do require good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups to ensure they stay in good condition.
Dental Crowns in Seattle
To protect and preserve your teeth, give us a call at Pacific Modern Dentistry to schedule your dental crown appointment at (206)284-4505!
