What are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a type of “cap” that is used to restore a tooth to its original shape, size, and function. A crown helps to improve a tooth’s strength and appearance.
There are a number of different types of crowns that can be used today, including:
All Ceramic Crowns
E.max
Durable, reliable, and esthetic! Emax has it all! These are the most commonly used in our office. It is preferred over zirconium crowns because it is tougher and more durable and thereby less prone to chipping. E-MAX crowns are made from lithium desilicated ceramic, a material that has been harvested for its translucent color and durability. As a result, you get a crown that is tough and durable, but looks exactly like your other teeth. The biggest downside of E-MAX crowns is the cost.
Bruxzir
On occasion, we use BruxZir Solid Zirconia. This is indicated for posterior crowns, bridges, inlays and onlays when the patient lacks space for other options, still providing a esthetic solution. BruxZir is an ideal solution for bruxers and grinders when PFM metal occlusals or full-cast restorations are not desired. These crowns blend a natural look with a durable structure giving patients the best of both worlds.
Metal Alloy Crowns
Gold Alloys
Though color matching may not be their strong suit, gold restorations are a great alternative. Despite the gold/yellow color, they can be thought of as the superior restoration due to a multitude of advantages. These restorations are less prone to fracture, and allow for more conservative preparation, translating to more of your tooth preserved! Also, because gold has a softer texture, acting most like our natural teeth and resulting in less wear & tear on the opposing teeth.
Base Metal Alloys
The least costly and possibly the least esthetic, these crowns are very strong and are resistant to corrosion. Only a minimal amount of tooth structure will be removed to apply this type of crown. Like the above mentioned, the Bruxzir, metal crowns are ideal when there is limited amount of space for a crown.
When is a Dental Crown Necessary?
Dental crowns can be used in many situations, including:
- To protect a weak tooth
- To restore an already broken tooth
- To cover and support a tooth with a large filling
- To hold a bridge in place
- To cover an implant
- To cover misshapen teeth
- To make a cosmetic modification
What to Expect During a Dental Crown Treatment
A crown is a great way to protect and restore a tooth’s function. Dr. Kumar and her team will work together to make sure your treatment is as pleasant and comfortable as possible.
Treatment is typically split up into two appointments. During the first appointment, your tooth will be examined and prepared. Filling material may be used to build up a tooth that has decay or damage, what we refer to as the core. Once defect and cavity free, the tooth receiving the crown will reshaped and reduced to make room for the crown. Lastly, we will take a putty impression of the tooth before being sent off to the lab for a custom crown to be made.
Your second visit is try-in day. After the much anticipated 1.5-2 week period has past for the dental lab to fabricate the crown, we will try-in the dental crown. We will check the fit with our tools and an x-ray. If all is good, we proceed to cementation, securing the tooth in place. Additional x-rays will be taken to assure proper cementation & fit once again.
Let’s not forget, there is still a tooth under there which is susceptible to decay & gum disease. Good home care and regular dental visits assure the stability and health of all your teeth.
