Dental crowns are restorative options for teeth that have significant decay or damage. In many cases a dental crown can save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted. A crown fits over the existing tooth, allowing the root to remain in place for support. Learn more about dental crowns to determine if this may be the right treatment option to restore your dental health and enhance your smile.
What is a Dental Crown?
A crown is a tooth-shaped cap or cover that can be placed over the natural crown of a tooth that has significant decay or damage, such as large cavities, cracks, or fractures. The existing tooth is reduced in size to make room for the crown to fit over the top, leaving the natural root of the tooth in place. Dental crowns are custom made to the precise size, shape, and color of your own teeth for a natural look.
Benefits of Dental Crowns
- Restore function. Once a tooth has been fitted with a permanent crown, you can eat the foods you love without discomfort or concern.
- Natural appearance. Porcelain crowns look very natural, blending in with your existing teeth for a seamless appearance.
- The root remains intact. With a crown restoration the existing root of the tooth remains in place for support, providing the chewing strength of your natural teeth.
- Avoid costly prosthetics. A timely restoration with a dental crown can save a tooth that would otherwise need to be extracted and replaced with a dental prosthetic.
Types of Dental Crowns
- Ceramic. Ceramic crowns are made of high-quality porcelain that provides a natural appearance.
- Porcelain fused to metal. This option combines the natural appearance of porcelain with the strength of metal.
- Gold alloy. When strength is needed, such as for molars that bear the brunt of chewing force, gold alloy provides a solid restoration.
- Base metal alloy. A mix of metals provides a strong crown that is ideal for molars and teeth that have minimal structure left.
The Dental Crown Procedure
- Consultation. The first step in the process of getting a dental crown is a consultation with your dentist to determine if this is an effective treatment option for you.
- Impressions. If you are eligible for the procedure and you decide to pursue it, impressions (digital images) will be made of your existing teeth that are used to create your custom crown.
- Preparing the tooth. The tooth will need to be prepared to receive your dental crown, which involves reshaping the remaining tooth material. Then additional impressions will be taken to ensure proper fit.
- Fitting the crown. The crown will be placed over the remaining tooth material and checked for accurate size and appearance. If it fits it will be permanently bonded into place. If not, additional adjustments will be made.
Are Dental Crowns Worth It?
Anytime you can restore the health of your existing teeth and keep them in place, it is absolutely worth it. Your natural teeth can last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance, but sometimes they need additional treatment to prolong their lifespan. A dental crown is stronger than a bridge and much more affordable and easier to place than a dental implant.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Crowns
How long does a crown last?
On average, a porcelain crown will last 5-15 years. A porcelain fused to metal crown may last 10-15 years and a metal alloy crown can last 15-20. With good care and maintenance, all types of crowns can last much longer than the average lifespan.
Can I get a crown in a day?
Same day crowns are possible in some cases. It depends on each individual and the circumstances surrounding the situation. Feel free to ask us about same day crowns during your consultation.
Contact Zuri Dental
Call Zuri Dental today at or contact us to schedule your dental crown consultation. We look forward to saving your teeth and enhancing your smile!
