What
Are Crowns?
A crown is a restoration that covers, or "caps,"
a tooth to restore it to its normal shape and size, strengthening
and improving the appearance of a tooth. Crowns are necessary
when a tooth is generally broken down and fillings won't solve
the problem. If a tooth is cracked, a crown holds the tooth
together to seal the cracks so the damage doesn't get worse.
Crowns are also used to support a large filling when there
isn't enough of the tooth remaining, attach a bridge, protect
weak teeth from fracturing, restore fractured teeth, or cover
badly shaped or discolored teeth.
How is a crown placed?
To prepare the tooth for a crown, it is reduced so the crown
can fit over it. An impression of teeth and gums is made and
sent to the lab for the crown fabrication. A temporary crown
is fitted over the tooth until the permanent crown is made.
On the next visit, the dentist removes the temporary crown
and cements the permanent crown onto the tooth.
Will it look natural?
Yes. The dentist's main goal is to create crowns that look
like natural teeth. That is why dentists take an impression.
To achieve a certain look, a number of factors are considered,
such as the color, bite, shape, and length of your natural
teeth. Any one of these factors alone can affect your appearance.If
you have a certain cosmetic look in mind for your crown, discuss
it with your dentist at your initial visit. When the procedure
is complete, your teeth will not only be stronger, but they
may be more attractive.
Why crowns and not veneers?
Crowns require more tooth structure removal, hence, they cover
more of the tooth than veneers. Crowns are stationary and
are customarily indicated for teeth that have sustained significant
loss of structure, or to replace missing teeth. Crowns may
be placed on natural teeth or dental implants.
What is the difference between a cap and
a crown?
There is no difference between a cap and a crown.
With proper care and maintenance a crown can last indefinitely. Some damaging habits like grinding
your teeth, chewing ice, or fingernail biting may cause this
period of time to decrease significantly.
How should I take care of my crowns?
To prevent damaging or fracturing the crowns, avoid chewing
hard foods, ice or other hard objects. You also want to avoid
teeth grinding. Besides visiting your dentist and brushing
twice a day, cleaning between your teeth is vital with crowns.
Floss or interdental cleaners (specially shaped brushes and
sticks) are important tools to remove plaque from the crown
area where the gum meets the tooth. Plaque in that area can
cause dental decay and gum disease.