WHAT ARE DENTAL CROWNS?

A dental crown is a cap that is placed over a damaged tooth to restore its shape, size, and function. It additionally strengthens and improves the look of the teeth.

The dental crown covers the visible portion of the tooth. Porcelain, ceramic, glass, zirconium and metal are the most common materials used in crowns.

HOW IS A DENTAL CROWN PREPARED?

The dentist will shape the tooth to prepare it for a crown, at the initial consultation.

Secondly, the dentist will take impressions of the patient’s mouth. This is for the preparation of a crown to matches the existing teeth.

Thirdly, the impression is sent to the lab for preparation. Following the completion of the metal, resin, or ceramic crown made from the hard mould, the crown is now cemented in place. The dentist may need to trim it to accommodate any defects from the preparation process.

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF DENTAL CROWNS?

A dental crown can aid individuals to improve their oral health. While also concealing a variety of cosmetic flaws i in patients’ teeth. Advantages of dental crowns can include the following:

• Protection and support. Dental crowns are like hats placed over teeth, it provides protection from tooth decay.



• Restoration. They can be used to restore a tooth’s size and form to its original state.



• Holds the teeth together even if they are damaged.



• Enhance the appearance of the teeth.



• Providing protection after a root canal.



• Comfortable: unlike dentures, crowns will not shift inside the mouth while speaking or eating. Therefore, the patient could eat and speak confidently.



• Restoring dental implants.



• They are durable and long-lasting.

WHAT ARE THE DISADVANTAGES OF DENTAL CROWNS?

Dental crowns have potential drawbacks, just like any other operation. The disadvantages include:

• Destruction: the teeth is filed down and reshaped permanently by the dentist.



• Tooth sensibility: some patients report experiencing tooth sensitivity especially to hot and cold. This could be resolved by using toothpaste formulated specifically for sensitive teeth.



• Poor-fitting: in the event of improper fitting, the crown may become loose, making biting down difficult.



• Crowns are made of strong materials, but they can crack over time.



• Bacteria can form under a crown if the dental cement used to hold it in place washes away.

WHAT TYPES OF DENTAL CROWNS ARE AVAILABLE?

Permanent crowns are available in stainless steel, all-metal (such as gold or another alloy), porcelain-fused-to-metal, zirconia, all resin, or all-ceramic materials. They vary in price, strength, looks, and qualities, allowing the patient to select the optimal type for their needs.

• All-Ceramic Crowns (All Porcelain):The most popular and widely used type of dental crown is an all-porcelain crown. All-ceramic crowns are an ideal option for patients who want their crown to match their natural teeth. They have a long lifespan. Also when compared to other materials such as metals, they have a better fit.  can be used for front and back teeth.
• Zirconia Crowns:Zirconia crowns are long-lasting, durable, and strong. Zirconia is a white ceramic that is considered the most durable substance used in dentistry. They are well tolerated by the human body. Zirconia crowns are popular among dentists and patients because of their durability. They became popular when “CAD/CAM was introduced in the dental laboratory process in the 2000s.” according to Dentistry Today.
• Porcelain Fused To Metal Crowns (Ceramic-Metal Crowns):The porcelain-fused-to-metal crown is a fantastic choice for patients who want both aesthetics and strength in a crown. Ceramic-metal crowns are manufactured with a metal substructure and a layer of ceramic on top. This type of hybrid crown can provide both a strong, long-lasting solution and natural-looking results. Although it’s not the most aesthetically pleasing option, it is one of the most durable. Also it has one of the best quality/price ratios.

WHY YOU MAY NEED DENTAL CROWNS INSTEAD OF A FILLING?

A filling is a type of dental restoration that is used to fix a minor hole or cavity in a tooth. The dentist removes the damaged tooth tissue and then fills the gap with a filling substance to treat a cavity. They are used to treat mild tooth decay or injury. On the other hand, dental crowns are used to restore severely decayed or damaged teeth. They protect and strengthen the teeth.

A cavity will be removed and treated with a dental filling if it’s small enough.  However, when a cavity reaches a particular size, the dentist is unable to drill out the decayed tooth substance without jeopardising the structural integrity of the tooth. Consequently, the dentist may recommend dental crowns if the patient’s teeth are too seriously decayed or damaged.

Overall, the patient decides whether or not to get a dental crown. The dentist will provide the patient all of the information and advice they need to make an informed decision. Patients should remember that safeguarding their teeth and maintaining them in good shape is the best health option in general.

HOW TO CARE FOR DENTAL CROWNS AFTER THE PROCEDURE?

The patient may experience some discomfort for a few days after the treatment. Generally, over the counter painkiller are sufficient for reducing the discomfort.

Hard, sticky foods or gum chewing should be avoided until the crown has fully set. Soft and easy-to-chew foods like pasta and bananas are recommended. Coffee and tea should also be avoided for at least three days following surgery since they can cause sensitivity.