Crowns

Dental crowns play a crucial role in preserving oral health and restoring smiles. Dental crowns, often referred to as "tooth caps," are custom-made prosthetic coverings that encase damaged or weakened teeth. They are designed to restore the shape, size, and strength of a tooth while enhancing its appearance. Dental crowns can be made from various materials such as porcelain, metal alloy, ceramic, or a combination of these.

These versatile dental restorations serve multiple purposes. They can protect a tooth that has suffered extensive decay or fracture and cannot be restored with fillings alone. Additionally, dental crowns are used to cover dental implants and anchor dental bridges in place.

What Are the Different Types of Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns are a popular solution for restoring damaged or decayed teeth. They are custom-made caps that fit over the existing tooth, providing strength and protection. While all dental crowns serve the same purpose, there are several different types to choose from, depending on your specific needs.

1. Porcelain Crowns: These crowns are made of a strong porcelain material that closely resembles the natural color and texture of your teeth. They offer excellent aesthetics and are ideal for front teeth restoration.
2. Metal Crowns: Made from gold alloy, metal crowns offer exceptional durability and strength. However, their metallic appearance makes them less popular for visible areas in the mouth.
3. Ceramic Crowns: These crowns combine ceramic materials with other substances like zirconia to create a more durable and natural-looking option than traditional porcelain ones.
4. Composite Resin Crowns: These tooth-colored composite resin crowns provide good aesthetic results while also being cost-effective compared to other options available.
5. Temporary Crowns: As the name suggests, these temporary restorations protect the tooth until a permanent crown can be fabricated and placed.

It's important to consult with our dentist to determine which type of dental crown is best suited for your unique situation.

How Are Dental Crowns Placed?

First, our dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay or existing filling material. They will then shape the tooth to make room for the crown. This may involve filing down some of the natural enamel.  

Next, impressions of your prepared tooth and neighboring teeth will be taken. These impressions serve as a guide for creating your custom-made crown. While waiting for your permanent crown to be made in a dental laboratory, you may be fitted with a temporary crown to protect your tooth.  

Once your permanent crown is ready, it's time for placement! The dentist will ensure proper fit and color match before cementing it into place using special dental adhesives. After placement, you may experience some sensitivity or discomfort initially as you adjust to having a new crown in your mouth. However, this should subside within a few days. It's an effective procedure that can enhance both aesthetics and function of damaged teeth.

Benefits of Dental Crowns

• One of the biggest benefits of dental crowns is that they can restore the appearance and functionality of a damaged or decayed tooth. Whether you have a cracked tooth, a large cavity, or even a tooth that has undergone root canal treatment, a dental crown can provide protection and support.
• Another advantage of dental crowns is their durability. Made from strong materials such as porcelain, ceramic, or metal alloys, crowns are designed to withstand daily wear and tear. With proper care and maintenance, they can last for many years.
• Dental crowns are also highly versatile in terms of aesthetics. They can be customized to match the color, size, and shape of your natural teeth, ensuring that your smile looks seamless and natural.
• In addition to their cosmetic benefits, dental crowns also provide functional advantages. They help improve chewing ability by restoring the strength and structure of compromised teeth. This allows you to enjoy your favorite foods without discomfort or difficulty.
• Moreover, dental crowns can protect weak teeth from further damage by acting as a shield against external forces like biting or grinding. By covering the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gum line, crowns provide added stability and prevent fractures.

If you're considering getting a crown or if your dentist has recommended one for you, don't hesitate! To learn more, call us at (425) 251-6044 or visit our office, Advanced Care Dental, at 16600 W Valley Hwy, Tukwila, WA 98188. We will be happy to guide you further.