A dental crown is a “cap” that is placed on top of a tooth. It is used to improve a tooth’s appearance and strengthen it. Dental crowns can be used to treat broken teeth, weak teeth or severely decayed teeth. A patient who has had a root canal will generally need a crown, for the procedure leaves the tooth hollowed out and weak. A crown can also be used to cover a dental implant or hold a bridge in place. There are many types of crowns, and they can be made from different materials.
Types of Crowns
Temporary crowns are made in the dentist’s office while permanent crowns are made in a lab. Temporary crowns are usually made of stainless steel or acrylic, and they are used to prevent the damaged tooth from deteriorating further while a permanent crown is made.
Veneers are partial crowns that only cover the front of the tooth. They can be made of porcelain, and they are placed on front teeth to change the shape and/or color of the teeth. They can also be used to make a smile more symmetrical and balanced or to cover crooked teeth. An onlay or partial crown covers only part of the tooth while a full crown caps the whole tooth.
Materials Used in Crowns
Stainless steel crowns are used for either temporary crowns or children’s crowns. They can be prefabricated. Stainless steel crowns are often used for children’s teeth because it doesn’t take many trips to the dentist to install them.
Permanent crowns can also be made of metal, and the metals used are various alloys. The alloys can be made of metals like gold, nickel, chromium or palladium. Metal crowns are strong and less prone to breaking or chipping. They tend to last longer than do other crowns. The dentist also has to remove less tooth structure while installing them. Because of their color, metal crowns are usually used for the less visible back teeth.
All-ceramic or all-porcelain crowns are the easiest type to match to the patient’s teeth in terms of color. They will, therefore, look the most natural, and they are also good for people who are allergic to metal.
Because of their natural look, they are often used for front teeth. They are not as strong as crowns containing metal, though, and they are also more likely to wear down opposing teeth than are resin or metal crowns.
Learn More Today
To get all of the information about dental crowns, set up a visit at the dental practice of Dr. Samuel F. Jirik, located in Cabot and serving the Little Rock and surrounding areas. Our team of professionals will be happy to assess your smile and answer any questions you may have. Contact our office today to schedule your dental appointment for your chipped or damaged tooth.
