Dental Crowns

What Are Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns are thin layers of material placed over teeth that have been damaged, weakened, or are aesthetically undesirable for various reasons. This procedure is used to correct the appearance of the teeth, strengthen them, and give them a more natural look. Crowns are an effective solution when the entire tooth needs to be covered. In patients with cavities, fractures, wear, discoloration, or irregular tooth structure, dental crowns provide both aesthetic and functional improvement.

Crowns are typically made from materials such as Emax porcelain, zirconium, or metal-supported porcelain. Porcelain crowns are quite popular due to their close resemblance to natural tooth color. Zirconium crowns offer a durable, long-lasting solution and are compatible with the gums. Metal-supported porcelain crowns are especially useful for providing strong support in back teeth, though they are generally not preferred for front teeth due to aesthetic concerns.

The crown procedure begins with trimming a portion of the tooth to adjust its shape and size. Then, a mold is taken to create a custom crown. After a temporary crown is placed, the permanent crown is fitted within a few weeks. Dental crowns not only give the tooth a natural aesthetic appearance but also help protect the tooth and prevent it from losing its function over time. These crowns make the tooth more durable, especially when chewing strength needs to be preserved.

Crowns may be used when aesthetic treatments like teeth whitening do not yield the desired results. Additionally, if there are gaps or irregularities between the teeth, these issues can be resolved with crowns. The lifespan of dental crowns is typically long, and with good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, they can be used for many years without any issues.

Proper care is essential for the longevity of dental crowns. Avoiding hard foods, regularly brushing the teeth, and using dental floss will help extend the lifespan of the crowns. Moreover, regular check-ups after crown placement ensure that both the crown and the natural tooth remain healthy.

Dental crowns offer both aesthetic and functional advantages, making them an important treatment method for maintaining tooth health and improving natural appearance. Crown treatment is an ideal solution for patients experiencing issues such as fractures, cavities, or color changes in their teeth.