Dental crowns, also known as “caps,” are a type of dental restoration that completely cover or encircle a tooth or dental implant. They are typically bonded to the tooth using dental cement and can offer a solution for a variety of dental problems.
What are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are prosthetic devices made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, resin, ceramic, metal, or a combination of these. They are custom-made to fit over the entire tooth, from the gum line up, and are used to restore the shape, size, strength, and appearance of the tooth.
Indications for Full Coverage Crowns
1. Large Fillings: When a tooth has a large filling, the remaining tooth structure can be weak and susceptible to fractures. A crown, by encompassing the entire tooth, provides a protective shell around the vulnerable tooth, enhancing its strength and durability. This is particularly important for teeth that are subjected to heavy biting forces, such as molars.
2. Root Canal Treatment: A root canal treatment involves removing the tooth’s pulp, which can leave the tooth hollow and more brittle. This increases the risk of the tooth cracking or fracturing. A crown helps to “splint” the tooth together, providing the necessary support and protection, and increasing the tooth’s longevity.
3. Cracked Tooth Syndrome: This condition involves a crack or fracture in the tooth that is not visible on X-rays and can be hard to identify. It can cause discomfort and sensitivity when biting down. A crown can hold the tooth together, preventing the crack from worsening. It also redistributes the forces exerted when biting, which can alleviate pain and sensitivity.
4. Excessive Wear of Teeth: Excessive wear can result from bruxism (teeth grinding), acid erosion from a highly acidic diet or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or abrasion from brushing too hard. This can lead to a loss of tooth structure, altering the tooth’s shape and size. A crown can restore the tooth to its normal shape and size, and protect it from further wear and tear.
5. Undesirable Appearance of Teeth: If a tooth is severely discolored, misshapen, or malpositioned, a crown can be used to improve its appearance. Crowns can be made to match the color, shape, and size of the patient’s natural teeth, providing a more aesthetically pleasing and harmonious smile.
6. Implant Restoration: Dental implants are used to replace missing teeth. The implant itself replaces the root of the tooth, but a prosthetic tooth still needs to be placed on top of the implant. A crown serves this purpose. It is custom-made to match the patient’s natural teeth and is attached to the implant, providing a result that functions and looks like a natural tooth.
Dental crowns play a crucial role in dental health and restoration. They provide a solution for a variety of dental issues, from protecting a weak tooth to improving the appearance of discolored or misshapen teeth. As with any dental procedure, the decision to get a full coverage crown should be discussed with a dental professional to ensure it is the best solution for the individual’s dental health needs.