WHAT ARE DENTAL CROWNS?
Dental Crowns can be identified as a tooth-shaped cap that is placed on the tooth to restore the shape, size, and appearance of the tooth.
WHEN IS DENTAL CROWN NEEDED?
- Protect or fix a tooth from fracturing due to accident or trauma
- Replace a tooth that is too large for a filling
- Get a cap over the Implant placed
- Repair the tooth on which RCT was performed
- Cover discolored, misshaped, or badly formed tooth
- Require a bridge in that case crowns are a must
Further, Dental Crown has the ability to give your tooth the strength, shape, size and to improve the appearance of your tooth.
In addition, not getting a dental crown can wear down other adjacent teeth causing extra damage.
WHAT ARE VARIOUS TYPES OF DENTAL CROWNS?
Dental Crowns can be made in variety come in various materials such as:
Metal Crowns
If someone is looking for long term and durable solution then metal crowns are to the rescue. The gold crowns in these are the most used and bond well with the tooth. These can even withstand hard chewing forces and biting.
Porcelain-Fused-To-Metal
If you are someone who is having aesthetic concerns and also wish to have metal crowns inserted, this is what you are looking for.
Ceramic Crown
If you do not intend to have metal inserted inside your mouth but require the strength to match metal crowns then go for ceramic crowns. Ceramic Crown is strong and blends more naturally with your tooth color making it invisible.
DO’S AND DON’TS WITH DENTAL CROWNS
DO’S
- Since the natural teeth are still beneath the crown and are vulnerable to decay, it is vital to maintain good oral hygiene. Brushing, rinsing and flossing should be done properly regularly.
- If you clench your teeth, then it is recommended to use a mouthguard to protect your crown and this also does not allow your teeth to wear down.
- Get this treatment done only by a dental expert who is trained in placing dental implants. Poor placement of crowns can reduce the longevity of crowns.
- Meet your dentist every 6 months to ensure that your oral health is in the best care.
DON’TS
- Avoid using your teeth as tools as this will put pressure and will damage the crown
- Avoid nail-biting and chewing pencils
- Do not chew ice or candy
- Avoid sticky food
- Do not consume too hot or too cold food as this might cause sensitivity
MYTHS ABOUT DENTAL CROWNS
Dental Crowns Do Not Look Natural
Some say that dental crowns do not match with your teeth thus give the impression of an artificial tooth. However, modern technology has paved the way for crowns to come in various material which looks exactly like your natural teeth.
Crowns Last Forever
Though the crowns are now stronger and have longevity, yet they cannot last forever. It depends on how well they are taken care of. Your dentist will monitor your crown and will replace it timely.
Food And Beverage Stains The Crown
This is possibly the biggest myth that people spread. It is believed that food and beverages can stain their teeth with time but the reality is, the crowns are made of porcelain and ceramic which do not stain easily.
Only Used For Restorative Dentistry
Some say that one gets a crown only if they have a fractured tooth, have undergone root canal treatment, or have broken or chipped a tooth. But in reality, they are used in cosmetic dentistry as a way to enhance the appearance and to have a whiter and beautiful smile.
Dental Crowns Do Not Break Or Chip
Though ceramic and porcelain are harder substances yet if you bite on something extremely hard, or face an accident or trauma then your crown may be at risk of breaking.
You Cannot Get Cavity With Crowns
Because the crown covers your tooth, they become vulnerable to decay. Though crowns, as they are artificial, have no chances of decay yet only the part below them can decay. Therefore, you will be required to keep your teeth and the area around clean to prevent a cavity.