Dental Crowns: Types and Benefits

Introduction

Your smile is one of your most precious assets. It’s no wonder that we invest so much time and effort in maintaining the health and appearance of our teeth. Dental crowns are a common and effective dental restoration that has been helping people maintain their oral health and improve their smiles for many years. Whether you have a damaged tooth, a large filling or simply wish to enhance the aesthetics of your smile, dental crowns can be a valuable solution. In this blog, we will explore the world of dental crowns, including their types, benefits and the procedure involved.

What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown, also known as a dental cap, is a prosthetic restoration that is custom-made to fit over a damaged or weakened tooth. It resembles a natural tooth in shape and colour, providing strength, protection and improved appearance. Dental crowns are a versatile solution that can address various dental issues, such as:

Tooth Decay: When a tooth is severely decayed, a crown can cover and protect it from further damage.

Fractured or Broken Teeth: Crowns can restore the strength and appearance of teeth that have been chipped, cracked or broken.

Large Fillings: If a tooth has a large filling that compromises its structural integrity, a crown can hold it together and prevent further damage.

Aesthetic Enhancement: Crowns are used for cosmetic purposes to improve the appearance of discoloured, misshapen or poorly aligned teeth.

Root Canal Treatment: After a root canal procedure, a crown is often placed to protect the treated tooth as it is relatively brittle now.

Different Types of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are a vital part of restorative dentistry, offering a way to protect and enhance your teeth. But did you know that there are various types of dental crowns to choose from? The different types of dental crowns and their unique characteristics:

Porcelain / Ceramic Crowns

Porcelain crowns are one of the most popular choices for restoring teeth, primarily because they closely resemble natural teeth in both colour and translucency. These crowns are an excellent option for front teeth, as they provide a beautiful, natural appearance. They are also metal-free, which is a significant advantage for individuals with metal allergies.

Precious Metal Crowns

Metal crowns, often made from alloys like gold, are incredibly durable and long-lasting. They are known for their strength and can withstand the forces of chewing and biting. Although they are highly functional and biocompatible, they may not be suitable for front teeth due to their metallic colour.

Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns

PFM crowns combine the strength of metal with the natural appearance of porcelain. They are a versatile option and are often used on both front and back teeth. However, over time, a dark line may become visible at the gumline as the gums recede.

Zirconia Crowns

Zirconia crowns are a popular choice for those who want the strength of metal crowns but prefer a more natural appearance. Zirconia is a biocompatible material that is highly resistant to wear and tear. It’s also an excellent choice for those with metal allergies.

E-Max Crowns

E-Max crowns are made from a single block of lithium disilicate ceramic, providing excellent aesthetics and durability. They are a popular choice for anterior (front) teeth and are known for their translucency and lifelike appearance.

Resin Crowns

Resin crowns are an economical option but are not as durable as other crown types. They are typically used as temporary crowns before a permanent crown is placed. Resin crowns can be prone to staining and chipping.

Benefits of Dental Crowns

Protection: Crowns provide a protective barrier that helps prevent further damage to a weakened or damaged tooth.

Restoration of Function: They restore the functionality of the tooth, enabling you to bite and chew comfortably.

Aesthetic Improvement: Dental crowns can enhance the appearance of your smile by covering discolored or misshapen teeth. Smile Makeovers with all ceramic crowns is a procedure being done routinely in the best dental clinics in Delhi.

Longevity: With proper care, dental crowns can last for many years, providing a long-term solution to dental issues.

Customization: Crowns are custom-made to match the size, shape, and colour of your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless blend with your smile. The best dentists in Delhi counsel their patients on these aspects.

The Dental Crown Procedure

The process of getting a dental crown typically involves several steps:

Assessment: Your dentist will examine the tooth and take X-rays to evaluate the extent of damage and ensure a crown is the right solution.

Tooth Preparation: The tooth is prepared by removing any decay and shaping it to accommodate the crown.

Impressions: An impression of the tooth is made to ensure a custom fit for the crown.

Temporary Crown: A temporary crown may be placed while the permanent one is being fabricated.

Crown Placement: Once the permanent crown is ready, it is cemented onto the prepared tooth.

Final Adjustments: Your dentist will check the bite and make any necessary adjustments for a comfortable fit.

Care Instructions: You’ll receive instructions on how to care for your new crown to ensure its longevity.

Conclusion

Dental crowns are a valuable dental restoration that offers both functional and aesthetic benefits. They come in various types, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences. If you have a damaged or weakened tooth, or you’re looking to enhance your smile, consider consulting with the best cosmetic dentist in Delhi to see if a dental crown is the right solution for you. With proper care and maintenance, a dental crown can help you maintain a healthy and beautiful smile for years to come.

To book an appointment with us at, ‘Smile Delhi – The Dental Clinic’– call us on +91-9811106871 or whatsapp Dr. Suprriya B Bhatia on +91-9811106377. You can also mail us on [email protected].

“We Care To Make You Smile”

Posted by: Dr Hema