- Metals
- Stainless steel
- Composite resin
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM)
- All-ceramic (porcelain)
These options differ in appearance, longevity, and durability. Your dentist can explain each option so you can make an informed decision for your smile.
Not sure if you need a dental crown? The best way to find out is to visit a dentist as soon as possible.
If you’re considering a dental crown, you’re most likely experiencing a serious oral health problem. Here are a few reasons dentists recommend dental crowns to their patients:
1. To protect a weakened tooth
Teeth become weak when they’ve suffered from trauma or had multiple fillings. In these cases, a dental crown can provide additional strength to the weak tooth, rather than removing it.
One of the top reasons dentists offer dental crowns instead of extracting the tooth is because the tooth root is so important for maintaining a healthy mouth and strong jawbone.
2. To restore a severely damaged tooth
Teeth that have been damaged by decay or trauma often need extra support and protection. Left on their own, disease-causing bacteria could continue to eat away at the tooth causing continued pain and sensitivity.
By placing a dental crown on top of the natural tooth, the tooth is strengthened and protected so that it (hopefully!) never needs to be removed.
3. To support a dental bridge
All dental bridges consist of at least one dental crown. A traditional dental bridge consists of two: one on either side of the prosthetic tooth or teeth. Many times, these crowns are placed on top of healthy teeth. In order to place these crowns, the dentist must remove some of the dental enamel from the teeth.
To avoid this, consider dental implants.
4. To conceal a misshapen or discolored tooth
Chipped, misshapen, and discolored teeth aren’t typically covered by dental crowns, but they certainly can be! The purpose of a dental crown is to restore and support a natural tooth, but there are cosmetic advantages as well. In these cases, a dental implant will most likely be recommended if the tooth is also weak or damaged.
If not, cosmetic solutions like teeth whitening, veneers, and composite bonding are sufficient to correct purely aesthetic problems.
5. To cover a dental implant
For patients with missing teeth, there are three options: dental bridge, dentures, and dental implants. Of these three, dental implants are the most highly recommended because of their strength, durability, and success rate.
Dental implants are the only tooth-replacement option that replaces the tooth root. Once the implant is placed in the jawbone, the dentist attaches a custom crown to the top of it. The entire process usually lasts between 6 and 18 months. Regardless, the results are worth it.
If you have any missing teeth or need a tooth extracted, as your dentist if you are a suitable candidate for dental implants.
Dental Crown in Lombard, IL
Restoring a natural tooth is always the best-case-scenario when it comes to weak or damaged teeth. At Dental Care of Lombard, we offer all types of dental crowns for all types of scenarios.
To learn if a dental crown is right for you, contact our friendly team today (630) 629-5700 to schedule an initial consultation with Dr. Julie Glud.
