Dental Crowns: Types, Benefits, Cost, Procedure and More

What is Dental Crowns?

A dental crowns is a tooth-shaped cap that is placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and improve its appearance. It is one of the most commonly used dental restorations and is often recommended in cases where a tooth has been severely damaged or decayed, or after a root canal treatment.

The dental crown is custom-made to fit the specific tooth and is cemented in place to cover the entire visible portion, which is above the gum line. It can be made from different materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of these materials.

Dental crowns offer several benefits, including:

1. Restoring the function of a damaged tooth: A crown can help restore the function of a tooth that has been severely damaged or decayed, allowing the patient to use the tooth for chewing and biting as normal.
2. Protecting a weakened tooth: Teeth that have undergone root canal treatment or have large fillings are more prone to breakage, and a crown can help protect the tooth from further damage.
3. Improving the appearance of a tooth: Because a crown covers the entire visible portion of the tooth, it can be used to improve the appearance of a tooth that is misshapen, discolored, or has other cosmetic issues.
4. Long-lasting durability: A dental crown can last up to 15 years with proper care and maintenance.

Why Do I Need a Dental Crowns?

If your dentist has recommended a dental crown, you may be wondering why it is necessary and what it can do for your oral health. Dental crowns are a common dental restoration used to strengthen and protect damaged or decayed teeth, improve their appearance, and restore their function. Here are some of the reasons why you may need a dental crown:

1. Severe tooth decay: When tooth decay is left untreated, it can progress to the point where a filling or a dental bonding is no longer sufficient. In such cases, a crown can help restore the tooth’s function and strength.
2. Fractured or cracked tooth: A crown can be used to protect a tooth that has been fractured or cracked. This helps to prevent further damage and ensures that the tooth retains its function.
3. Large filling: When a tooth has a large filling, it can weaken the tooth and compromise its structure. A crown can help to prevent the tooth from breaking and offer better protection.
4. Root canal treatment: A tooth that has undergone root canal treatment can become brittle and susceptible to breaking. A crown can be placed over the treated tooth to strengthen it and protect it from further damage.
5. Cosmetic improvement: A dental crown can be used for cosmetic purposes to improve the appearance of a tooth that is discolored, misshapen, or has other cosmetic issues.

In addition to these reasons, dental crowns can also help to prevent the need for more extensive dental treatment in the future. By protecting and strengthening a damaged tooth, a crown can prevent the need for an extraction or more invasive procedures.

How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

The process for getting a dental crown typically involves two dental appointments. At the first appointment, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any damaged or decayed areas and shaping it to accommodate the crown. Then, an impression of the prepared tooth is taken and sent to a dental laboratory where the crown will be created. A temporary crown is placed on the tooth while the permanent one is being made.

At the second appointment, the temporary crown is removed, and the permanent crown is cemented in place. The dentist will check the fit and bite to ensure optimal function and comfort.

What are the Different Types of Crowns?

Dental crowns are a common dental restoration that helps to improve the function, strength, and appearance of damaged or decayed teeth. Crowns are available in different materials, and each type has its own unique benefits and drawbacks. Here are the different types of crowns and their features:

• Metal Crowns: Metal crowns are made of various metals, such as gold, palladium, or base metal alloys. They are highly durable and long-lasting, making them suitable for teeth in the back of the mouth where strong biting forces are applied. They are also less prone to chipping or breaking, require minimal tooth removal and have a long lifespan. However, their metallic appearance makes them less aesthetically appealing, making them suitable for back teeth only.
• Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns: PFM crowns are made of a metal base with a porcelain coating, providing durability and cosmetic appeal. They are more aesthetically pleasing than metal crowns due to the tooth-colored porcelain that is placed over the metal base. However, they can show a dark line at the gum line, the porcelain layer can wear over time to expose metal base, the PFM crowns also may irritate the gumline and can cause slight discoloration.
• All-Ceramic (all-porcelain) Crowns: These crowns are made entirely of porcelain or ceramic materials, providing the most natural-looking and aesthetic appearance. They are also biocompatible and do not cause metal allergies or irritate the gumline. They offer a good fit and natural translucency, making them an excellent choice for front or visible teeth. However, they are not as strong as metal or PFM crowns, can be more fragile, and can wear down the opposing teeth over time.
• Zirconia Crowns: Zirconia is a strong, long-lasting material that is similar to metal in durability. Zirconia-based crown is made of all-ceramic but is significantly stronger and less likely to chip or break. They have a translucent appearance that is similar to natural teeth, making them an attractive option for cosmetic purposes. Zirconia crowns also require minimal tooth removal.

The choice of dental crown material depends on several factors, including the location of the tooth, the degree of damage, the aesthetic requirements, and the patient’s preference. Your dentist can help you select the best type of crown for your situation, and the most suitable type of crown can restore your smile’s function, strength, and beauty.

What are the Advantages of Zirconium Crowns?

Zirconium dental crowns are a relatively new type of crown that has become increasingly popular due to their benefits over traditional metal or porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns. Here are some of the advantages of zirconium crowns:

1. Aesthetics: Zirconium crowns are highly aesthetic and can be made to match the color, shape, and size of the natural teeth. The material is translucent like natural teeth, allowing it to blend into the surrounding teeth seamlessly. This makes them an ideal choice for front teeth restorations where appearance is crucial.
2. Strength and Durability: Zirconium is a highly durable material. Crowns made from zirconium are incredibly strong and can withstand the forces of normal biting and chewing. They are also resistant to chipping or cracking, making them a long-lasting restoration option.
3. Biocompatibility: Zirconium is biocompatible, which means it is not likely to cause an allergic reaction. The material can be tolerated well by the body, making it a safe and effective restoration option.
4. Minimal Tooth Reduction: Zirconium crowns require less removal of healthy tooth structure compared to PFM or metal crowns. As a result, the patient’s tooth is better preserved, which leads to a healthier restoration.
5. Comfort: Zirconium is a non-conductive material, which means that it does not conduct hot or cold temperatures. This makes zirconium crowns more comfortable for the surrounding tissues and tooth pulp.
6. Precise Fit: Zirconia crowns can be milled to a precise fit using CAD/CAM technology. This computer-aided design and manufacturing process can ensure an accurate fit, which reduces the risk of leakages and dental caries development.

In summary, zirconia crowns offer a range of advantages over other types of crowns. They are highly aesthetic, durable, biocompatible, require minimal tooth reduction, and more comfortable. If you are looking for an effective and long-lasting dental restoration, consider zirconium crowns as an option that can meet your expectations.

Are Zirconium Crowns Good?

Yes, zirconium crowns are an excellent choice for dental restorations as they have many benefits over traditional crown materials. Zirconium is a type of ceramic material that is highly durable, biocompatible, and aesthetically pleasing.

Zirconium crowns are highly recommended for patients who have allergies, who want an effective and naturally looking restoration, and who are looking for a long-lasting and durable solution. If you are considering zirconium crowns or another type of dental crown, discuss your options with your dentist to determine which type of crown is most appropriate for your needs.

What is the Permanence of Zirconium Crowns?

Zirconium crowns are a popular and effective dental restoration option. They are known for their durability, strength, and biocompatibility. One of the benefits of zirconium crowns is their long-lasting condition, which can offer 15 years or more of functionality with proper care and maintenance.

How Should Dental Veneers Be Cared For?

Dental veneers are a popular cosmetic dental treatment used to improve the appearance of teeth. Veneers are thin, custom-made shells that cover the front surface of teeth, giving them a brighter, more aesthetically pleasing appearance. While dental veneers are durable, they require proper care and maintenance to keep them in good condition.

Here are some tips on how to care for dental veneers:

• Practice Good Dental Hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and use an antibacterial mouthwash regularly to remove plaque and bacteria that can damage your veneers. Regular dental cleanings are also necessary to remove any residual buildup or staining.
• Avoid Staining Foods and Beverages: Foods and beverages that are high in acidity or prone to staining, such as coffee, tea, wine, and tomato sauce, can discolor veneers over time. Consider reducing or avoiding these items as much as possible.
• Refrain from Smoking: Smoking and tobacco-related products can stain veneers, leaving them discolored and yellowish. Quitting smoking and using tobacco-related products or reducing their usage may help to preserve the brightness and clarity of the veneers.
• Protect Teeth from Injury: Veneers may be delicate and can chip or break if subjected to excessive force or pressure. Avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods, grinding or clenching of teeth, and using your teeth to open packages or bottle caps.
• Wear Mouthguards: If you engage in sports or other physical activities, wear a properly fitting mouthguard that can offer protection to both veneers and natural teeth.
• Schedule Regular Dental Exams: Regular dental exams help to ensure that your veneers are functioning correctly and in good condition. Your dentist can detect and address any issues with your veneers during regular dental checkups to prevent further damage.

In conclusion, dental veneers require proper care and maintenance to keep them in good condition for longer periods. Practicing good dental hygiene, avoiding staining foods and beverages, refraining from smoking, protecting your teeth from injury, and scheduling regular dental exams are essential steps to care for your dental veneers. By following the above tips, you can help to ensure the lasting beauty of your smile and enjoy the full benefits of dental veneers.

How Much Are Dental Crowns? Zirconium Tooth Crown Cost

The cost of dental crowns can vary depending on the material used and the location of the dental practice.

The cost of dental crowns can vary depending on several factors such as:

• Materials Used: The type of materials used in creating the crown can affect the cost. In general, metal crowns tend to be less expensive while all-ceramic/zirconium material tend to be more costly.
• Location of Dental Practice: The cost of dental crowns can also vary depending on the location of the dental practice. Crowns in large metropolitan areas may be more expensive than those in smaller towns.
• Type of Procedure: The type of dental procedure used for crown placement can also affect the cost. Some clinics may charge higher fees for more complicated cases, such as those that require additional preparatory work, including root canals, extractions or orthodontic treatment.

As a result, the cost of dental crowns can vary depending on different factors. For this reason, you can contact us for more detailed information about the prices of dental crowns, including zirconium dental crowns.