Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Dental Crowns
When you close your eyes and picture a beautiful smile, what does it look like? Do you see a row of perfectly straight white teeth? Sometimes, a chipped or cracked tooth, a tooth worn down over time, or noticeable discoloration can shatter the image you have of your smile. A dental crown might be just the thing to help you achieve the smile of your dreams.
What is a Dental Crown Exactly?
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped “cap” that completely covers an existing tooth or dental implant. We take an impression of the tooth or implant that needs to be covered, custom fabricate the crown, and then cement it in place.
What Kinds of Dental Crowns Are There?
When it comes to choosing the right dental crown, there are different options available. Each one has pros and cons, and the team at Rivercrest Family Dental is here to help you find the type of crown that is best for your particular needs.
Porcelain Crowns
Pros – look natural and match the shape and color of your other teeth
Cons – not as strong as metal crowns; not advised for people who grind their teeth, as they can chip and break
Porcelain-fused-to-metal Crowns
Pros – durable, natural looking
Cons – the metal part may appear gray along the gum line; they don’t blend in as perfectly as porcelain-only crowns; not recommended for people who grind their teeth
Zirconia Crowns
Pros – strong and durable; very natural looking; biocompatible and metal free
Cons – can cause the opposing teeth to wear down faster
Who Might Need a Dental Crown?
We often recommend dental crowns to:
- protect a weak tooth or hold a cracked tooth together
- restore a tooth that is already broken or severely worn down
- cover and support a tooth that has a very large filling
- hold a dental bridge in place
- cover misshapen or badly discolored teeth
- cover a dental implant
How Long Do Crowns Last?
When cared for properly, a dental crown can last for years. Here at Rivercrest Family Dental, we’ll give you all the guidance you need to care for your crown to keep it looking great for as long as possible.
Have questions? We would be happy to answer all of them. Call us to make an appointment at our office located in New Braunfels, TX, and don’t forget to schedule your next checkup! We look forward to seeing you soon!
