Dental crowns are a type of dental restoration that is used to reinforce and protect a tooth weakened by decay. But what does a dental crown look like? In our article, we discuss the structure, function, and types of dental crowns.
What Does a Dental Crown Look Like?
A dental crown is a “cap” placed on top of a tooth. A crown covers the entire tooth and imitates its natural appearance and color. Dental crowns can be made of the following materials:
- Porcelain is one of the most commonly used materials for making dental crowns. Porcelain crowns are durable, stain-resistant, and look natural in the mouth due to their slight translucency. Porcelain crowns tend to last for up to 15 years if proper care is taken of them.
- Resin composite crowns tend to be less expensive than porcelain crowns, but they are also not as durable and stain-resistant. However, resin composite crowns look very similar to natural teeth as well. A resin composite crown can last for up to 10 years.
- Metal crowns (for example, made of gold) are very durable and can last longer than other types of crowns—for up to 20 years. However, they do not look natural in the mouth and are not very popular for this reason.
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns can have similar durability as metal crowns, as they have a metal base. However, this type of dental crown looks natural in the mouth because the metal base is coated with porcelain. The downside of the porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns is that the porcelain might chip over time, exposing the metal base.
- Pressed ceramic crowns have a harder core similar to porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns. However, this core is made of porcelain instead of metal.
- Zirconia crowns are highly durable but mimic the appearance of a natural tooth very closely at the same time.
The Structure of a Dental Crown
A dental crown is shaped like the tooth on which it is going to be placed. To make the crown that is right for you, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth. However, the crown is hollow inside, which allows it to go on top of the natural tooth.
The crown is bonded to the tooth, and the ages of the crown go slightly under the gum to ensure hermeticity. Thus, food and beverage particles, bacteria, and air can not have access to your tooth. If the crown is not sealed correctly or the sealant becomes broken over time, it poses a risk of tooth infection and, eventually, tooth loss if the issue is not solved in a timely manner. Crowns with a broken sealant have to be replaced as soon as possible.
How a Dental Crown Is Placed on a Tooth
In order for the crown to fit, your dentist has to create enough room between the surrounding teeth, so the to-be-crowned tooth has to be filed down. Once the tooth is sufficiently prepared, the crown is bonded to it with dental cement.
The Function of a Dental Crown
A dental crown is typically used as a restorative dental appliance but can also be used for cosmetic purposes in some cases. The main functions of a dental crown include:
- In some cases, decay can be extensive enough to make the walls of the tooth too thin after the decayed pulp is removed during a root canal treatment. Thus, the tooth will not be able to sufficiently withstand the pressure applied by chewing and biting. Thus, a dental crown is used to reinforce the tooth that underwent a root canal treatment, to protect it from further damage, and to restore its function.
- Dental crowns are also used to protect and reinforce worn-out teeth and to improve their chewing function.
- Teeth that are broken, cracked, or chipped due to trauma can be restored with dental crowns.
- A tooth with extensive staining or discoloration can be covered with a dental crown to mask cosmetic imperfections. However, since this method of treatment requires removing some outer portion of the tooth, other cosmetic methods are recommended to be explored first. For example, teeth whitening and dental bonding can be sufficient to solve the issue. Additionally, dental veneers can be a good option, especially for the front teeth.
Make an Appointment at Shodhan Yucaipa Today
Please do not put off getting a dental crown, as it might lead to tooth loss. Make an appointment with an experienced dentist at Shodhan Yucaipa today to get high-quality and long-lasting dental crowns and improve your oral health. Our specialists are looking forward to your visit.