Understanding Dental Crowns: Types, Procedures, and Benefits

Dental crowns are one of the most common dental restorations used to protect and restore damaged teeth. Whether due to decay, fractures, or cosmetic reasons, crowns can help restore both function and aesthetics. At Dental Smile-Savers, located in the Bronx, NY, we specialize in crown procedures to give you a durable, natural-looking smile. In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about dental crowns, including the types, procedure, and benefits they offer.

What Are Dental Crowns?

A dental crown is a cap that covers a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are often recommended when a tooth has been damaged by decay, fracture, or wear. They serve to protect the tooth from further damage and help restore normal function, including chewing and speaking.

Types of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns come in various materials, and choosing the right one depends on your needs and preferences. Below are the most common types of crowns:

1. Porcelain Crowns

Porcelain crowns are known for their ability to blend seamlessly with the natural color of your teeth. They are ideal for teeth that are visible, like the front teeth. Porcelain crowns offer a highly aesthetic result and are durable enough for everyday use.

2. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns

This type combines the durability of metal with the aesthetic benefits of porcelain. It is typically used for back teeth where strength is essential. While not as translucent as porcelain alone, they still offer a more natural appearance than metal crowns.

3. Gold Crowns

Gold crowns are highly durable and provide excellent strength. They are ideal for back teeth that endure heavy chewing forces. While not as visually appealing as porcelain crowns, they are a popular choice due to their longevity.

4. Zirconia Crowns

Zirconia crowns are known for their strength and natural appearance. They are made from a highly durable material and are resistant to cracking or chipping. Zirconia crowns are suitable for both front and back teeth and offer a great balance between aesthetics and function.

The Dental Crown Procedure

The process of getting a dental crown typically requires two visits to the dentist. Here’s an overview of what you can expect:

Visit 1: Consultation and Tooth Preparation

During the first appointment, your dentist at Dental Smile-Savers will examine your tooth and take X-rays to ensure it’s healthy enough to support a crown. If there is decay, it will be removed, and the tooth will be reshaped to accommodate the crown. An impression of the tooth will be taken, which will be used to create a custom crown.

Visit 2: Crown Placement

In the second visit, your custom crown will be placed over your prepared tooth. The dentist will ensure that the crown fits properly, makes any necessary adjustments, and bonds it securely in place. In some cases, temporary crowns are placed until the permanent one is ready.

Benefits of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns offer numerous benefits, both functional and aesthetic. Here are some of the most significant advantages:

1. Protection of Weakened Teeth

Crowns help protect a tooth that is weakened by decay or damage. By covering the entire tooth, crowns prevent further damage and reduce the risk of tooth loss.

2. Improved Aesthetics

Crowns can enhance the appearance of your smile by covering discolored or misshapen teeth. Porcelain crowns, in particular, provide a natural appearance that blends with your existing teeth.

3. Restored Function

Crowns help restore the full function of your teeth, making it easier to chew, speak, and smile without discomfort. They ensure that your teeth are strong enough to withstand everyday pressures.

4. Durability

Crowns are designed to last for many years. With proper care and maintenance, a dental crown can last between 10 and 15 years, depending on the material used.

5. Prevention of Future Issues

By covering a damaged or decayed tooth, crowns prevent further problems like cracking or breaking. They also provide added support to teeth that have undergone root canal therapy.

When Do You Need a Dental Crown?

You may need a dental crown if you experience any of the following:

• Severe tooth decay that cannot be treated with a filling
• Cracked or broken teeth that need extra protection
• Root canal therapy, as crowns protect and restore function to treated teeth
• Misshapen or discolored teeth that affect your smile’s appearance

Caring for Your Dental Crown

Taking care of your crown is essential to ensure its longevity and functionality. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Brush and floss regularly to prevent plaque buildup around the crown and the gum line.
• Avoid hard foods like ice or hard candy that could damage your crown.
• Regular dental check-ups at Dental Smile-Savers will ensure your crown remains in good condition.

Conclusion

Dental crowns are a great solution for restoring damaged or decayed teeth. Whether you choose porcelain, gold, or zirconia crowns, they provide strength, durability, and improved aesthetics to your smile. At Dental Smile-Savers in the Bronx, NY, we offer personalized crown options tailored to your specific needs. If you think you might need a dental crown, schedule a consultation with us today to restore your smile and confidence.