Dental crowns are an excellent solution for damaged or decayed teeth and are used to protect weakened teeth that have undergone a root canal. A dental crown comes in the form of a “cap” that is fitted to cover a tooth to conceal cosmetic and functional damage. People seeking solutions to restore the shape and size of a damaged tooth may need to consider a crown. Besides repairing damaged teeth, crowns can improve the appearance of a smile. If simply receiving a filling does not solve your problem due to the amount of damage that decay, cracks, or root canal therapy has caused to a tooth, a crown may be ideal. Crowns are durable and crack-resistant so they serve to protect a tooth and restore its structure and strength.
At Michelle Hedgecock, DDS, we help you choose the correct material for your crowns depending on your needs.
What Type of Dental Crown Should You Choose?
Crowns are made with either porcelain or metal. Porcelain crowns are typically recommended if you want a solution that matches the color of your teeth. If you are seeking an alternative to metal crowns, you can choose pressed ceramics because they last longer. These crowns comprise a hard inner core that functions as the cap once fitted on the tooth. Moreover, all-ceramic crowns are an option if you want a piece that offers the natural color of a tooth. You can get all-ceramic crowns if you have an allergy to metals. These are a better choice for covering the front teeth.
Metal (gold) crowns are made of nickel, chromium, and gold. They last longer because it is hard to break and wear them down. When you need a crown on a molar tooth that is not visible when you smile, metal crowning can make a good choice because it can easily withstand the biting and chewing force of the teeth.
The Procedure for Fitting Crowns
A procedure for fitting a crown requires two visits. During your first visit, we will gently numb the tooth before cleaning out decay, prepare it for the crown by shaping it, and take impressions. A fully functional temporary acrylic crown will be placed and utilized until the final crown comes back from the lab to be tried in. We partner only with top dental labs and highly-skilled technicians that employ fine craftsmanship to create beautiful crowns. This ensures that your crown will blend seamlessly with your natural teeth and fit perfectly.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
Depending on the type of material, dental crowns can last five to 15 years. You will need them repaired or replaced after their lifespan. Depending on the rate of wear and tear, and on your oral hygiene, your crown may last a short or a long period.
Advantages of Dental Crowns
- Restores strength to the damaged tooth
- Improves tooth size, shape, and color
- Repairs damage caused by severe decay
- Preserves tooth after root canal treatment
- Restores a dental implant
To get more information about dental crowns and understand when you need them, consult our team at Michelle Hedgecock, DDS. Give us a call now at (512) 501-2385 to request a consultation appointment.