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Crowns,
or caps for teeth, look and function just like natural teeth. Your
dentist may recommend a crown if your tooth has enough decay that it
cannot hold a filling, or if your tooth is cracked or broken and in
danger of cracking down into the root if left unattended. A crown covers
your tooth completely. It fits snugly at the gum and protects what
remains of the natural tooth.
Why Have Crowns?
The crown serves two important functions. First, it restores the
appearance of your teeth and your face. If your tooth is severely
decayed or cracked, the dentist will need to restore it prior to
preparing a cap. Teeth also support the muscles in our faces, so
anything less than a full tooth may affect the way you look.
Second, a crown will be the same size and shape as the natural tooth. As
a result, it will keep your jaw and bite aligned; it will also make sure
that other teeth don't shift locations or take on a greater share of the
work of biting and chewing.
What Are Crowns Made
of?
Crowns are most often made of gold or porcelain. Crowns also can be made
of stainless steel, but those crowns are often temporary and not
designed for long-term wear.
Porcelain crowns usually are built on a metal base, which fits snugly
over the natural tooth. Your dentist will choose a porcelain that
matches the color of your natural teeth. Porcelain crowns usually are so
carefully matched in color, they cannot be distinguished from your
natural teeth. Many people choose porcelain crowns for the cosmetic
appearance and the confidence it gives them.
New materials are now available that allow the use of "all-ceramic"
crowns in some cases. They have a beautiful life-like appearance and
short-term studies support their success, with long-term trials ongoing.
Crowns also can be made of all gold. Some people prefer not to use gold
because it stands out from the other teeth in appearance. At the same
time, if the crown is on a back molar, some people feel the cosmetic
issue is not a big one. Your dentist will discuss the types of materials
available if a crown is recommended.
An Ounce of
Prevention Is Still the Rule!
Once your crown is in place, make sure the area is brushed well and that
you floss below the gum line. While the crown protects your remaining
tooth from further decay, you must protect the base of the crown from
bacterial growth and gum disease. Regular brushing and flossing as you
would your natural teeth will ensure that your crown will be in place
for years to come! |
