Tooth crowns are commonly used to replace one or several weakened, damaged or missing teeth. We can restore a tooth that is missing some or all of its visible portion, yet still has healthy roots with a tooth crown. We can place dental crowns over the teeth for added support and protection.
They also connect to dental implants‘ abutments to serve as formidable artificial teeth. Here is a look at what tooth crowns consist of and why they have become so popular.
Tooth Crown Helpful Information
Tooth Crown Materials
There are four types of tooth crown materials: all-ceramic with a porcelain base, gold alloys, porcelain fused to metal and base metal alloys. Ceramic crowns are common for the restoration of the front teeth as they allow for visual uniformity with the surrounding natural teeth. It might be necessary to remove part of the tooth structure in order to connect the porcelain to the tooth. The only drawback to this material is it might prove sensitive in instances of heavy biting. Furthermore, ceramic crowns are resistant to wear.
The porcelain fused to metal tooth crown variety involves a connection to a metal structure to enhance tooth strength and provide a robust seal that thwarts leaks and reduces recurrent tooth decay. Porcelain fused to metal provides a formidable restoration that is vastly superior to porcelain alone. The dentist will have to remove a small amount of the tooth structure yet it still proves strong and durable.
Base metal alloys have non-noble metals that offer considerable strength. The crown and tooth have ample support and resistance to corrosion. When prepping the tooth for correction with base metal alloys, the dentist will remove a minor amount of the tooth’s structure. The base metal alloy will prove highly resistant to natural wear and tear.
New Tooth Crown Technology
Computer-aided design software, known as CAD, can help dentists and dental laboratory technicians fabricate the perfectly shaped and sized dental restorations like crowns, inlays, onlays, and bridges. This software makes use of three-dimensional technology that takes a full image of the teeth to create a resulting crown that is a perfect fit.
Why Dental Crowns are Necessary
The dentist will determine if certain factors have occurred that spur the need for a tooth crown. If the tooth is worn down, broken or has a weak enamel structure, a tooth crown might be recommended. It covers the tooth, providing protection and enhancing the cosmetic look of the tooth. There is no need to worry about a dental crown looking out of place with the use of the proper technology.
Discuss Tooth Crowns With Your Dentist
If you have a damaged tooth or if your dentist suggests a tooth crown, embrace this oral health solution. Discuss tooth crowns with your dentist, ask questions and let him or her break down the merits of this dental material for your mouth. Give a tooth crown a chance and you will find it does an amazing job of protecting your tooth and making your smile that much more appealing.
Call (281) 477-7200 to schedule an appointment with Pearl Shine Dental in our Houston dental office.