When one thinks of a regal crown, images of opulence and splendor come to mind. However, in the dental realm, crowns represent restoration and conservation. Dental crowns or ‘caps’ are essentially fixed prosthetic devices – one of the several tooth restoration options is a tooth crown in Toronto that helps to restore the size, shape, strength, and functionality of a damaged tooth
Understanding Dental Crowns
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap placed over a tooth to cover it, restoring its shape, size, strength, and improving its appearance. The crown, when cemented into place, fully encases the visible portion of the tooth lying at and above the gum line.
Dental Crown Materials: Making the Right Choice
Every material used in a dental crown has a purpose and it’s crucial to understand what they are before you make your pick. The three primary types are ceramic, porcelain fused to metal (PFM), and gold.
Ceramic crowns, often used for restoring front teeth, can blend seamlessly with your natural tooth color. Porcelain fused to metal crowns offers a stronger bond than regular porcelain because it’s connected to a metal structure. Gold crowns, though not common, are an amalgamation of copper and other metals, making them a sturdy option fit for back molars.
The Perks of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns offer a host of advantages. They protect weak teeth, restore broken teeth, support teeth with filling, hold dental bridges in place, and they can cover severely discolored teeth.
Choosing Your Dental Expert
Choosing the right dentist can be a daunting task. It’s crucial to research, consult, and understand your dental needs and align them with your dentist’s expertise. A guide to choosing a dentist can be of great help in this decision-making process.
Conclusion
Dental crowns are a significant part of dental treatment with numerous advantages. However, they are arguably under-discussed in general dental education. Understanding the types of dental crowns can help patients make more informed decisions about their dental health. Remember, the more you are informed, the better decisions you’re likely to make about your health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dental crowns painful?
A local anesthetic is used during the procedure, and thus, it is usually not painful.
How long is the lifespan of a dental crown?
Dental crowns typically last between 5 and 15 years, depending on their wear and tear.
This comprehensive piece offers a glimpse into the world of dental crowns, their types, benefits, and some questions that patients frequently ask. In the world of dental health, knowledge is certainly power!
