What are dental crowns?
Dental crowns are restorations that provide full coverage of a tooth to help protect and restore it going forward.
What materials are used for dental crowns?
Dental crowns come in various materials, each with different benefits. Materials have different strength and aesthetic characteristics and may require different amounts of tooth preparation to provide enough space for the restoration.
One option is zirconia, which is a strong ceramic material commonly used for dental crowns. Another option is lithium disilicate, often known by the brand name IPS e.max®. This is also a ceramic material and can provide a combination of strength and aesthetics.
Another option is feldspathic porcelain. This material can provide natural-looking color, translucency, and depth and may be considered for certain highly aesthetic restorations, particularly in the front of the mouth. The appropriate crown material depends on the tooth, bite, appearance, and individual restorative needs.
When are dental crowns recommended?
Dental crowns are often recommended after root canal treatment, particularly for back teeth or teeth that have lost a significant amount of natural structure. A crown can help protect and reinforce the remaining tooth so that it can continue to function.
However, not every tooth that receives root canal treatment automatically needs a crown. The appropriate restoration depends on which tooth was treated, how much healthy tooth structure remains, and other clinical factors.
What is the dental crown procedure like?
The dental crown procedure is pretty straightforward. We start by numbing the area to help keep the patient comfortable. Then we prepare and shape the tooth to create the appropriate amount of space for the crown material.
The patient then receives a temporary crown while the permanent restoration is being made by a dental laboratory. This process may take a couple of weeks depending on the laboratory and the individual case.
Once the permanent crown comes back from the lab, we'll evaluate its fit, bite, and appearance. If everything meets our clinical criteria, we'll cement or bond the crown into place.
How do you care for a dental crown?
Despite the tooth being covered by a crown, the natural tooth structure around the margin can still develop decay. The gums and supporting tissues around the crown also need to remain healthy.
That's why it's still very important to brush twice a day, floss or clean between your teeth regularly, and keep up with your dental visits.
How long does a dental crown last?
How long a dental crown lasts is a question we get quite a bit. A crown can function for many years, but there's no single lifespan that applies to every restoration.
Longevity depends on factors such as the crown material, the health of the underlying tooth, oral hygiene, bite forces, clenching or grinding, diet, and regular dental care. Some crowns last significantly longer than others, and we'll monitor the crown and the tooth underneath it during your routine visits.
If you’re ready to schedule an exam or would like to learn more about our services, we’d love to hear from you. Call us at (209) 474-8888 or email [email protected]. We look forward to caring for your smile.