Why is a Dental Crown Needed?
A dental crown is a cap that covers the visible portion of your tooth. It’s often used to restore the appearance, shape, and strength of a damaged or decayed tooth. A dental crown may be needed in the following situations:
- To protect a weak tooth from breaking
- To hold together parts of a broken tooth
- To restore a severely worn down or broken tooth
- To cover a discoloured or poorly shaped tooth
- To cover a dental implant
- To anchor a dental bridge
Types of Dental Crowns
There are several types of dental crowns available, including:
- Porcelain Crowns
- Ceramic Crowns
- Zirconia Crowns
- Metal Crowns
- Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns
When it comes to restoring damaged or decayed teeth, dental crowns can be an effective solution. However, with so many different types of crowns available, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at each of the different types of dental crowns and what makes them unique.
Porcelain Crowns
Porcelain Crowns are one of the most popular types of dental crowns due to their natural appearance. They are ideal for restoring front teeth as they can be matched to the colour of your existing teeth. This type of crown is made from high-quality porcelain material and is designed to look and feel like a natural tooth.
Ceramic Crowns
Like porcelain crowns, ceramic crowns are also designed to look and feel like a natural tooth. They are a good option for people with metal allergies or those who are concerned about the appearance of metal in their smile. Ceramic crowns are made from a type of high-strength ceramic material and can be used to restore both front and back teeth.
Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia Crowns are known for their strength and durability. They are a popular choice for restoring back teeth as they are able to withstand the pressure of chewing and grinding. Zirconia crowns are made from a type of high-quality ceramic material and are designed to last for many years with proper care.
Metal Crowns
Metal Crowns are made from a combination of metals, such as gold, palladium, or nickel. They offer exceptional strength and durability and are ideal for restoring molars and other back teeth. Metal crowns are less aesthetically pleasing than other types of crowns, but they are often recommended for people with active lifestyles or those who grind their teeth.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns offer the best of both worlds – the strength of a metal crown and the natural appearance of a porcelain crown. They are made by fusing a layer of porcelain to a metal base, resulting in a crown that is both strong and aesthetically pleasing. This type of crown is often recommended for people who need a crown to restore a tooth that is visible when they smile.
How much of a tooth can be crowned?
The amount of a tooth that can be crowned depends on the extent of the damage or decay. In general, crowns can be placed on teeth that have lost up to roughly 50% of their natural structure, but it is best to preserve as much of the natural tooth as possible. In cases where more than 50% of the tooth is damaged or decayed, other options such as root canal treatment or extraction may be necessary.
In addition to crowns, dental implants can be used to replace missing teeth or to fill in empty spaces in the mouth. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are placed in the jawbone and topped with a dental crown or bridge. The amount of implant placement required depends on the number of missing teeth and the overall oral health of the patient.
Choosing the Right Crown
When it comes to choosing the right dental crown, it is important to consider your individual needs and goals. For instance, if you’re looking for a crown that provides maximum strength, a metal crown may be a good option for you. If you’re more concerned about the appearance of your crown, you may prefer a porcelain or ceramic crown.
At Nunyara Dental, our experienced dentists take the time to understand your specific needs and goals. We consider factors such as the location of the tooth, the extent of the damage, and your personal preferences when helping you choose the right crown. Our goal is to help you achieve a healthy and confident smile that you can be proud of.
In addition to considering your individual needs and goals, our dentists also take into account the long-term health of your teeth. For instance, we may recommend a zirconia crown if you grind your teeth, as this type of crown is known for its strength and durability.
Ultimately, the choice of crown will depend on your individual needs, goals, and budget. Our experienced dentists at Nunyara Dental can help guide you through the process and ensure that you make an informed decision. With their help, you can achieve a healthy, functional, and aesthetically pleasing smile that you can be proud of for years to come.
The Dental Crown Procedure
The dental crown procedure typically requires two visits to the dentist. During the first visit, the dentist will numb the area around the tooth and shape the tooth to prepare it for the crown. An impression of the tooth will be taken and sent to a dental lab to create the custom crown. A temporary crown will be placed over the prepared tooth to protect it until the permanent crown is ready.
During the second visit, the temporary crown will be removed and the permanent crown will be cemented into place.
Conclusion
Dental crowns can be an effective solution for restoring damaged or decayed teeth. With the right care, a dental crown can last for several years. If you’re in need of a dental crown, or if you have any questions about the procedure, we invite you to visit Nunyara Dental. Our experienced and knowledgeable dentists will be happy to help you determine if a dental crown is the right solution for you. Book your appointment today and take the first step towards a healthier, more confident smile.
Experience the gentle difference in a relaxing family atmosphere
Nunyara Dental Centre has been established for the last 40 years aiming to make all our patients happy and healthy. Nunyara Dental Centre is an oral care centre in Greenwood, Western Australia. Dr Melisa Linklater-Williams, Dr Geoffrey Farrugia, Dr Matthew Daniels & Dr Claudia Rodriguez Nunez bring together vast experience. In our private billing practice, we focus on providing our clients with exceptional customer service and excellent service.