Dental crowns may sound like a royal solution for your teeth—and in a way, they are! A crown is like a protective “cap” that restores the structure and function of a damaged tooth, ensuring your smile stays healthy and strong. But how exactly does a dental crown work? What’s involved in the process, and why might you need one?
At Najmi Dental, we regularly use dental crowns to help our patients regain their confidence and protect their oral health. Let’s dive into how crowns work, why they’re so effective, and what you can expect if you need one.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is essentially a tooth-shaped cap that’s placed over a damaged tooth to protect it, restore its strength, and improve its appearance. Crowns are commonly made from materials like porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of materials, and they’re custom-made to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
But why do we need crowns in the first place? Well, when a tooth is severely damaged—whether from decay, a crack, or even a root canal treatment—it may no longer be strong enough to function on its own. That’s where the crown comes in, giving the tooth a second life by shielding it from further harm.
The Process: How Is a Dental Crown Made and Fitted?
Getting a dental crown typically involves two appointments. Here’s a step-by-step guide to how the process works:
1. Examination and Preparation
Before fitting a crown, your dentist will thoroughly examine the affected tooth. If it’s damaged by decay or a fracture, the first step is to clean and reshape the tooth. Any decay or weakened areas are removed, and the remaining tooth is filed down to create space for the crown. If the tooth is too small or too damaged, your dentist may need to build up the core with a filling material before proceeding.
2. Taking an Impression
Once your tooth is ready, an impression is taken to ensure the crown will fit perfectly. This is done using a mould or digital scan, which is then sent to a dental lab. There, skilled technicians craft a custom crown that matches your bite and the natural shape of your teeth.
3. Temporary Crown
While your permanent crown is being made, you’ll wear a temporary crown to protect the prepared tooth. Temporary crowns are usually made from acrylic and are less durable than permanent crowns, so it’s important to be cautious with hard or sticky foods during this period.
4. Fitting the Permanent Crown
Once your custom crown is ready (usually within 1-2 weeks), you’ll return to the dentist for the final fitting. The permanent crown is placed over your tooth, and your dentist will check to ensure it fits comfortably and aligns properly with your bite. If everything looks and feels good, the crown is then cemented in place.
The result? A fully restored tooth that looks and functions just like a natural one!
How Does a Dental Crown Protect Your Tooth?
So, what’s the magic behind dental crowns? Crowns work by providing a durable outer layer that shields the tooth underneath from further damage. Here are the key ways they protect and restore your tooth:
- Strengthening weakened teeth: When a tooth is too weak to withstand the pressure of chewing, a crown reinforces it, allowing you to eat comfortably without the risk of further damage.
- Sealing off decay: If you’ve had a large cavity, the crown covers the tooth, preventing bacteria from entering and causing more decay.
- Restoring function: Damaged teeth often lose their ability to chew food properly. A crown restores your tooth’s shape and function, so you can eat normally without discomfort.
- Improving appearance: Crowns also help with cosmetic concerns. Whether your tooth is discoloured, misshapen, or chipped, a crown can make it look natural and uniform.
Types of Dental Crowns: Which One Is Right for You?
Dental crowns come in different materials, and your dentist will recommend the best one based on the location of the tooth, the extent of the damage, and your personal preferences. Here’s a quick overview of the most common types:
1. Porcelain Crowns
These are ideal for front teeth because they closely resemble the colour and texture of natural teeth. Porcelain crowns are known for their aesthetics and are a popular choice for patients looking to restore their smile.
2. Metal Crowns
Metal crowns (usually made from gold or alloys) are incredibly durable and can withstand heavy chewing forces. They’re often used on back molars where strength is more important than appearance.
3. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns (PFM)
PFM crowns offer the best of both worlds—a metal structure for strength, with a porcelain coating for a natural look. They are a versatile option and work well for both front and back teeth.
4. Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia crowns are known for their strength and durability. They’re a great option for patients who need a strong crown but still want an aesthetically pleasing result.
When Is a Dental Crown Necessary?
Crowns are used in a variety of situations to protect and restore damaged teeth. Some common reasons you might need a crown include:
- After a root canal: Once a tooth has had root canal therapy, it often becomes fragile. A crown protects the tooth and restores its function.
- Large fillings: If you have a large filling that’s compromising the structure of your tooth, a crown may be needed to reinforce it.
- Broken or cracked teeth: Crowns can cover and protect teeth that are cracked, chipped, or broken, preventing further damage.
- Cosmetic improvements: If you have a tooth that’s severely discoloured or misshapen, a crown can be used to improve its appearance and give you a more uniform smile.
How Long Does a Dental Crown Last?
With proper care, dental crowns can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years or longer. The lifespan of your crown depends on several factors, including the material used and your oral hygiene habits.
To get the most out of your dental crown, be sure to:
- Brush and floss regularly: Good oral hygiene is essential for maintaining the health of the underlying tooth and keeping the crown in good shape.
- Avoid hard foods: While crowns are strong, they’re not invincible. Avoid chewing on hard foods or objects like ice or pens to prevent damage.
- Visit your dentist regularly: Routine check-ups are crucial for monitoring the condition of your crown and ensuring your overall oral health.
Conclusion
Dental crowns are an incredibly effective way to restore damaged teeth, protect them from further harm, and enhance your smile. Understanding how a dental crown works can give you peace of mind if you ever need one. Whether it’s for protection after a root canal or simply to improve the appearance of a tooth, crowns are a reliable and durable solution.
Contact Najmi Dental, we’re committed to providing you with the best possible dental care. If you think you may need a crown or have any questions about the process, feel free to reach out to us. We’ll guide you every step of the way to ensure your smile stays strong and healthy.
