What is a dental crown?
A dental crown is a dental prosthesis used to reconstruct the tooth back to functionality and restore the natural aesthetic. Crowns are a cap that protects the damaged tooth below. If the tooth is decayed or damaged from trauma, the dentist might use filling material to rebuild the tooth structure to support the crown.
Crowns can be fabricated from a variety of materials; however, at Wimpole Street Dental Clinic, we recommend opting for a porcelain crown. They are a great option for their strength, aesthetic.
The longevity of a dental crown depends on the lifestyle of the individual. On average, a dental crown will last between 15-20 years.
When is a dental crown needed?
A dental crown is used when a significant portion of the surface of the tooth is damaged. This can be due to several factors, which include:
Dental decay – When a considerable amount of the tooth’s surface has begun to rot from decay, a crown may be the most appropriate solution to restore the tooth to functionality.
The tooth will be prepared by removing the decay before sealing and creating the perfect surface for the dental crown to adhere to.
Trauma to the tooth – If the tooth has cracked or broken from damage to the tooth then a crown might be a suitable option to fix the tooth.
Failing dental fillings – When an old dental filling fails and the tooth has already been subject to heavy restoration, the best option to preserve the tooth could be fitting a dental crown over the top of the sealed tooth.
A severely worn tooth – If a tooth has been worn down due to grinding or clenching the teeth a dental crown can help to bring back comfort, structure and function.
Cosmetic purposes – In the case where the tooth is very misshapen, chipped or discoloured, a dental crown can help to improve the aesthetics. This is not usually preferred over alternatives like composite bonding or veneers, which are less invasive and don’t require the tooth’s enamel to be filed down.
Shielding a root canal-treated tooth – In the case of a tooth that has needed a root canal, the tooth may be weakened, requiring a dental crown to provide strength and durability whilst restoring the appearance.