Introduction
If you’ve ever had tooth pain, the first thing that your dentist probably told you is to get a dental crown. But what are stainless steel dental crowns, and why do you need one?
Here, you’ll get answers to those questions, including knowing if you have an infected tooth. Read on for all the details!
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a cap that covers a tooth that is used to restore a tooth’s function and appearance. Metal, porcelain, and ceramic can all be used to make crowns.
Most crowns are placed over an existing tooth after it has been treated for decay or damage. Sometimes, a new tooth may be created in the laboratory and attached to the jawbone with a dental implant.
A dental crown may be recommended for several reasons:
- To protect a weak or damaged tooth from breaking.
- Support a tooth with a large filling when there isn’t enough healthy tooth remaining.
- Cracked teeth are held together with dental cement.
- To cover misshapen or severely discolored teeth.
- To attach a dental bridge.
Why Do You Need One?
If you have a tooth that is damaged, cracked, or discolored, a crown can help improve its appearance.
Furthermore, crowns can protect weak teeth from breaking, support large fillings, or hold cracked teeth together. In some cases, crowns are also used to attach bridges or to cover implants.
Types of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns can be classified into three types:
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM)
PFM crowns are made of a metal frame covered with porcelain. Both front and back teeth can benefit from them as they are strong and durable.
However, the metal frame may show through the porcelain, making them less cosmetically appealing than other types of crowns.
All-Ceramic or All-Porcelain
These are made entirely of ceramic or porcelain and are, therefore, more aesthetically pleasing than PFM crowns.
However, they are not as strong as PFM crowns and are more likely to chip or break. They are best used on front teeth, which will be visible when you smile.
Resin-Bonded
Resin-bonded crowns are made of a plastic resin bonded to the tooth with a metal band.
They are not as strong as PFM or all-ceramic crowns, but they are more affordable. They are typically used on back teeth, which will not be visible when you smile.
Pros and Cons of a Dental Crown
A dental crown is a dental restoration that encases the entire tooth to protect it from further damage. Crowns often restore teeth damaged by decay, trauma, or wear and tear.
In addition, they can be used to improve the appearance of discolored or misshapen teeth.
While dental crowns offer many benefits, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider. One of the most significant disadvantages of dental crowns is their cost.
Crowns can be quite expensive, especially if made from more durable materials like porcelain. In addition, dental crowns require two visits to the dentist – one for the initial consultation and another for the procedure itself.
Another downside to dental crowns is that they are not always permanent. Over time, crowns can become loose or fall out entirely. It is more likely to happen if you do not take good care of your teeth and gums.
Be sure to brush and floss regularly and see your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings to help prolong the life of your dental crowns.
How Are They Put In?
A dentist or an endodontist usually puts in dental crowns:
- The tooth is numbed with local anesthesia.
- The dentist will use a drill to remove the top of the tooth so that it is flat.
- They will make an impression on your tooth so that the crown can be made. Once the crown is ready, the dentist will put it on your tooth and make sure it fits correctly.
- They will cement the crown in place.
Alternatives to a Dental Crown
Depending on your needs and budget, there are a few alternatives to dental crowns. Dentures and implants are the two most common options.
Dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth. They are typically made of acrylic or plastic and fit over your gums.
Implant-supported dentures are another option, which involves attaching dentures to implants that have been surgically implanted into your jawbone.
Implants are titanium posts surgically implanted into your jawbone and act as anchors for replacement teeth. Dentures, dental bridges, and single teeth can all be supported by implants.
Conclusion
The stainless steel dental crowns are a dental restoration that encases the entire tooth to protect it from further damage. Crowns often restore teeth damaged by decay, trauma, or wear and tear. Additionally, they can be used to improve the appearance of discolored or misshapen teeth. Dental crowns can also require two visits to the dentist and are not always permanent.