What is crowning?
Dental crowns, also known as dental caps, are custom-made prosthetic devices that are placed over damaged or decayed teeth to restore their shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are often recommended by dentists when a tooth is too damaged to be repaired with a filling, or when a tooth has undergone a root canal and needs to be reinforced.
How is it done?
The crowning procedure typically involves the following steps:
- Tooth preparation: The damaged or decayed tooth is first prepared by removing any decay or old filling material, and reshaping the tooth to create space for the crown.
- Impression: An impression of the prepared tooth and surrounding teeth is taken, which is sent to a dental lab to create the custom-made crown.
- Temporary crown: A temporary crown may be placed over the prepared tooth while the permanent crown is being made.
- Placement of permanent crown: Once the permanent crown is ready, it is cemented onto the prepared tooth using dental adhesive.
Dental crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of materials. The choice of material will depend on the location of the tooth in the mouth, the extent of damage to the tooth, and the patient's personal preferences.
Overall, dental crowns can help restore the function and appearance of damaged teeth, and can prevent further damage or decay from occurring. It is important to consult with a dentist to determine if a dental crown is necessary and which type of crown would be most appropriate for your specific case.
Why is it needed?
Dental crowns may be needed for a variety of reasons, including:
- Tooth decay: When a tooth is severely decayed or damaged, a crown can be used to cover and protect the remaining healthy tooth structure.
- Cracked or broken teeth: Teeth that are cracked, fractured or broken can be repaired and strengthened with a dental crown.
- Root canal therapy: Teeth that have undergone root canal therapy are often weakened and may require a crown to provide additional support and protection.
- Large fillings: Teeth with large fillings may be weakened and require a crown to help prevent further damage.
- Cosmetic reasons: Dental crowns can also be used to improve the appearance of teeth that are discolored, misshapen or otherwise aesthetically unappealing.
Overall, dental crowns are a versatile and effective treatment option for restoring damaged or decayed teeth, and can help prevent further damage and improve overall oral health. It is important to consult with a dentist to determine if a dental crown is necessary and which type of crown would be most appropriate for your specific case.
What is the benefit ?
There are several benefits of getting a dental crown:
- Restores function: Dental crowns can restore the function of damaged or decayed teeth by covering and protecting the remaining healthy tooth structure.
- Long-lasting: Crowns are durable and can last for many years with proper care, providing a long-lasting solution for damaged teeth.
- Aesthetic improvement: Crowns can improve the appearance of teeth that are discolored, misshapen or otherwise aesthetically unappealing.
- Protection: Crowns can protect weak or damaged teeth from further damage or decay.
- Comfort: Crowns can improve comfort by covering exposed tooth roots or reducing sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures.
- Improved oral health: Crowns can help improve overall oral health by preventing further damage or decay to teeth, and can also help prevent the need for more extensive dental work in the future.
Overall, dental crowns are a versatile and effective treatment option for restoring damaged or decayed teeth, and can provide several benefits for overall oral health and appearance.
