Choosing the Right Dental Crown: A Practical Guide

When it comes to dental crowns, it’s like choosing a new hat for your tooth. It’s got to fit right, look good, and last a long time. But how do you know which one is right for you? Well, let me tell you, as a cosmetic dentist who’s been around the block a few times, it’s not a one-size-fits-all situation.

I remember when I first started practicing in the Bay Area, I had a patient, let’s call her Sarah, who needed a crown on her front tooth. She was a teacher and wanted something that would look natural but also be durable. We went through all the options, and it was a bit overwhelming for her at first. But by the end, she was happy with her choice, and that made all the difference.

So, let’s dive into the world of dental crowns. By the end of this, you’ll know exactly what to look for and how to choose the right one for you. Trust me; it’s worth taking the time to get this right.

Types of Dental Crowns

Porcelain Crowns

Porcelain crowns are the supermodels of the dental world. They’re known for their natural appearance and are often used for front teeth. But here’s the thing: they’re not as strong as some other types, so they might not be the best choice for molars, which do a lot of heavy lifting when it comes to chewing.

Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns

These are like the best of both worlds. You get the strength of metal with the aesthetics of porcelain. They’re a solid choice for both front and back teeth. But there’s a catch: over time, the metal can show through as a dark line along the gums, especially if your gums recede. It’s something to think about, especially if you’re young and likely to have the crown for a long time.

Gold Alloy Crowns

Gold alloy crowns are the tough guys of the group. They’re super durable and can last a long time, but they’re not exactly discreet. If you’re considering a gold crown, you’ve got to be okay with a bit of bling in your smile. They’re usually used for molars, where they won’t be as visible.

Base Metal Alloy Crowns

These are like the workhorses of dental crowns. They’re strong, resistant to corrosion, and gentle on the opposing teeth. But again, they’re not the most aesthetically pleasing option. Is this the best approach? Let’s consider the facts.

Zirconia Crowns

Zirconia crowns are the new kids on the block. They’re strong, like really strong, and can look pretty natural too. They’re a good choice if you grind your teeth or have had root canal treatment, as they can withstand a lot of pressure. But they can be a bit more expensive than other types.

E.max Crowns

E.max crowns are the up-and-comers. They’re made from lithium disilicate, which is strong and looks really natural. They’re a bit more translucent than zirconia, so they can mimic the look of a natural tooth really well. But they might not be the best choice for people who grind their teeth, as they can wear down over time.

Temporary Crowns

Temporary crowns are just that – temporary. They’re usually made of acrylic or stainless steel and are used to protect your tooth while your permanent crown is being made. They’re not meant to last forever, so don’t get too attached!

Onlays and 3/4 Crowns

Onlays and 3/4 crowns are like the compromise candidates. They don’t cover your whole tooth like a traditional crown, but they do provide good protection. They’re a good option if you have a lot of strong tooth structure remaining and want to preserve as much of your natural tooth as possible.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Dental Crown

Okay, so now you know the types of dental crowns. But how do you actually choose one? Here are some factors to consider.

Strength and Durability

Some materials are stronger than others. If you know you grind your teeth or have a history of fractured teeth, you’ll want something that can withstand a lot of pressure, like a gold or zirconia crown.

Aesthetics

Let’s face it, we all want a beautiful smile. If you’re getting a crown on a front tooth, you’ll probably want something that looks natural, like porcelain or E.max. But if it’s a molar, you might be more concerned with strength than looks.

Cost

Dental crowns can be pricey, there’s no way around it. But some materials are more expensive than others. If cost is a big factor for you, you might want to consider a base metal alloy or porcelain-fused-to-metal crown.

Tooth Sensitivity

If you have sensitive teeth, you might want to consider a material that won’t conduct heat and cold very well. Gold and base metal alloy crowns are good options for this.

Gum Health

If you have receding gums, you might want to steer clear of porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns, as the metal can show through as a dark line. Porcelain or zirconia might be a better choice.

Your Dentist’s Recommendation

At the end of the day, your dentist knows your teeth best. They can give you personalized advice based on your oral health and history. I’m torn between recommending one type over another because it really depends on the individual. But ultimately, it’s a decision you and your dentist should make together.

The Dental Crown Procedure: What to Expect

So, you’ve chosen your crown. Now what? The procedure usually involves two visits to your dentist.

First Visit: Preparation and Temporary Crown

At your first visit, your dentist will prepare your tooth by removing any decay and shaping the tooth to fit the crown. Then, they’ll take an impression of your tooth to send to the lab where your crown will be made. You’ll leave this appointment with a temporary crown to protect your tooth in the meantime.

Second Visit: Permanent Crown Placement

At your second visit, your dentist will remove the temporary crown and check the fit and color of your permanent crown. If everything looks good, they’ll cement the crown in place, and you’ll be good to go!

Caring for Your Dental Crown

Just because you have a crown doesn’t mean you can slack off on oral hygiene. In fact, it’s just as important, if not more so, to take good care of your teeth and gums.

Brush and Floss Regularly

You should be doing this anyway, but it’s especially important with a crown. You don’t want to get decay around the edge of the crown, as this can lead to more problems down the road.

Avoid Hard Foods

While crowns are strong, they’re not indestructible. Avoid chewing on hard foods like ice or hard candies, especially if you have a porcelain crown.

Regular Dental Check-ups

Regular check-ups are important for everyone, but they’re especially important if you have a crown. Your dentist can check for any issues and make sure your crown is still in good shape.

When to Replace a Dental Crown

Dental crowns can last a long time with proper care, but they don’t last forever. Here are some signs it might be time to replace your crown.

Wear and Tear

Over time, crowns can wear down, especially if you grind your teeth. If your crown is looking worn, it might be time for a replacement.

Decay

If you get decay around the edge of your crown, it can compromise the seal and allow bacteria to get underneath. If this happens, you’ll need a new crown.

Aesthetic Concerns

Sometimes, people just want a change. Maybe you have a porcelain-fused-to-metal crown, and the metal is starting to show. Or maybe you just want something that looks more natural. Whatever the reason, it’s okay to replace a crown for aesthetic reasons.

The Future of Dental Crowns

Dental technology is always advancing, and crowns are no exception. In the future, maybe I should clarify… who knows what advancements we’ll see? But one thing’s for sure: the goal will always be to provide strong, natural-looking restorations that improve oral health and quality of life.

FAQ

Q: How long do dental crowns last?
A: With proper care, dental crowns can last anywhere from 5 to 15 years or more.

Q: Does getting a dental crown hurt?
A: Your dentist will use local anesthesia to numb the area, so you shouldn’t feel any pain during the procedure.

Q: How much do dental crowns cost?
A: The cost of dental crowns can vary widely depending on the type of crown and where you live. In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from $800 to $3000 or more per crown.

Q: Can I whiten a dental crown?
A: No, dental crowns cannot be whitened like natural teeth. If you’re considering teeth whitening, it’s best to do it before getting a crown so the crown can be matched to your new, whiter shade.

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