Table of Contents
Dental crowns
What Are Dental Crowns?
Dental anxiety affects a significant portion of the adult population in the United States, with estimates suggesting that around 75% of adults experience fear or discomfort when it comes to dentistry. While this figure is an approximation, it underscores the widespread apprehension associated with dental procedures.
Many individuals only seek dental care when they encounter a dental emergency, delaying necessary treatment and resulting in more extensive dental work. However, by prioritizing regular dental visits and adopting a cautious approach, individuals can transform dental appointments into a routine part of their oral care regimen rather than an anxiety-inducing event.
Dental crowns play a crucial role in maintaining oral health, restoring the function and appearance of damaged teeth, and preventing the need for complex dental procedures such as extractions, root canals, or implants. By understanding the dental crown process, individuals can alleviate their fears and feel more comfortable during their dental visits.
Advantages
Advantages of Dental Crowns
Dental Crowns as Restorations and Cosmetic Enhancements.
Dental crowns serve both restorative and cosmetic purposes, addressing conditions that compromise tooth health, stability, and appearance. Common scenarios that may require dental crowns include:
- Extensive Cavities
- Worn-Down Teeth With Missing Enamel
- Advanced Tooth Decay Causing Weakened Teeth
- Teeth That Have Undergone Root Canal Therapy
- Fractured or Cracked Teeth
- Teeth in Need of Cosmetic Enhancements to Improve the Overall Smile Aesthetics
Types
Types of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are a versatile treatment option, available in various materials, each with specific advantages and applications. Here are some common types of dental crowns:
These crowns are popular for their natural color and texture, which match natural tooth enamel. They are highly preferred for front teeth restorations due to their excellent aesthetic qualities.
Porcelain (Ceramic) Crowns
These crowns combine a porcelain outer layer with a metal base, providing both strength (from the metal) and a more natural appearance (from the porcelain). They are stronger than porcelain alone and are often used for both front and back teeth.
Porcelain Fused to Metal (PFM) Crowns
Known for their strength and durability, zirconia crowns are made from a type of ceramic that can withstand the wear and tear of back teeth while also providing an aesthetic appearance suitable for front teeth.
Zirconia Crowns
Porcelain (Ceramic) Crowns
These crowns are popular for their natural color and texture, which match natural tooth enamel. They are highly preferred for front teeth restorations due to their excellent aesthetic qualities.
Porcelain Fused to Metal (PFM) Crowns
These crowns combine a porcelain outer layer with a metal base, providing both strength (from the metal) and a more natural appearance (from the porcelain). They are stronger than porcelain alone and are often used for both front and back teeth.
Zirconia Crowns
Known for their strength and durability, zirconia crowns are made from a type of ceramic that can withstand the wear and tear of back teeth while also providing an aesthetic appearance suitable for front teeth.
The Dental Crown Procedure Explained
Preliminary Steps: X-Rays And Scans
Before initiating the dental crown procedure, dentists typically order X-rays or CT scans to assess overall oral health and identify any underlying issues that could complicate the crown placement process.
Tooth Preparation
To prepare the tooth for a dental crown, a portion of the tooth enamel needs to be shaved off through a process known as enameloplasty or odontoplasty. This step aims to slightly reduce the thickness of the tooth so that the crown can be placed on top without interfering with neighboring teeth.
First Appointment: Crown Preparation
During the first appointment, the dentist administers local anesthesia to numb the tooth and surrounding gum area. Once the patient is completely numb, the dentist uses a dental handpiece to carefully file down the tooth, creating the necessary space for the crown. After reshaping the tooth, an impression is taken to ensure the crown fits accurately to the patient’s bite. The impressions are then sent to a dental lab where the permanent crown will be fabricated. Before the patient leaves the first appointment, a temporary crown is placed using temporary cement to protect the prepared tooth until the permanent crown is ready.
Care And Precautions For Temporary Crowns
While wearing temporary crowns, patients should avoid consuming sticky substances, hard foods, and follow proper flossing techniques to prevent damage or dislodgement. Specific dietary recommendations and flossing techniques will be provided to ensure the temporary crown remains secure and functional.
Second Appointment: Cementation Of The Permanent Crown
The second appointment is usually quicker than the first, as it does not involve drilling down the tooth. During this appointment, the dentist administers local anesthesia to ensure this area of tooth is numb and patient does not feel any pain.
The temporary crown is removed, and the new permanent crown is tried on to assess its fit and color match. If everything looks satisfactory and the patient is happy with the outcome, the permanent crown is cemented into place. Post-operative instructions and guidelines on proper crown care are provided, emphasizing the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene.
After a day or two, patients can start flossing between their porcelain crowns, ensuring they are clean and free from food particles to prevent gum inflammation. Patients are encouraged to reach out to the Dr.Edward Doktorman team for any questions or concerns regarding porcelain crowns or dental work in general. Understanding the dental procedures being performed on one’s teeth helps alleviate fear and discomfort associated with dental work.
DR. DOKTORMAN IS A PARTICIPATING PROVIDER OF ALL MAJOR INSURANCES SUCH AS METLIFE, DELTA, AETNA, AND CIGNA, etc.
It’s virtually impossible to list all of them on this page. If you have any questions regarding your dental coverage, we will be happy to answer them.
What you need
How do I Know if i Need Dental Crowns?
Determining whether you need dental crowns involves assessing your dental health and considering several factors related to the condition of your teeth. Here are key points to help you decide if dental crowns might be the right solution for you:
- Significant Tooth Decay
- Damaged or Broken Teeth
- Worn Down Teeth
- After Root Canal Treatment
- Misshapen or Discolored Teeth
- To Complete a Dental Implant
- To Anchor a Dental Bridge
- Preventive Protection
Dental Crowns Impressions, Fitting, and Aftercare
Impressions
After tooth preparation, the dental staff creates an impression of the tooth and the surrounding teeth. This impression is then sent to a dental fabrication lab, where the crown will be crafted in the desired material. Depending on the fabrication process, patients may leave their first appointment with a temporary crown.
Fitting And Placement
If a patient has a temporary crown, a follow-up appointment is scheduled to replace it with the permanent crown. Before cementing the permanent dental crown in place, the dentist ensures its fit and appearance by placing it on the prepared tooth. This step is crucial, as a poorly fitting crown can significantly reduce its lifespan. If the dentist confirms that the crown is free of flaws and the patient approves of its fit and appearance, the crown is cemented into place.
Dental Crown Aftercare
After the placement of a dental crown, patients receive information and advice on how to maintain their dental restoration. It is normal to experience some sensitivity in the days and weeks following crown placement due to the removal of natural tooth material, which brings the nerves closer to the tooth surface.
Over time, this increased sensitivity will subside. Proper oral hygiene practices, including brushing twice a day and flossing using traditional floss or interdental cleaners, are crucial for maintaining the crown and gum health. Patients should be cautious when flossing between teeth with crowns, avoiding pulling the floss away from the gums to prevent potential loosening or dislodgement of the dental crown. Instead, drawing the floss through the teeth when moving to the other side of the tooth is recommended.
Certain foods should be avoided, as even though some dental crowns are more resilient than others, no crown is fracture-proof. Dentists may caution against consuming hard foods, sticky substances, and tough foods. Individuals who experience bruxism (teeth grinding) may receive specific recommendations regarding the type of dental crown material to minimize potential damage. Depending on the crown material, dentists may also advise against excessively hot or cold foods and drinks.
Contraindications
Contraindications to Dental Crowns
Indications
- Tooth Decay or Damage
- Fractured or Broken Teeth
- Following Root Canal Treatment
- Cosmetic Enhancement
- Dental Bridges and Implants
Сontraindications
- Minimal Tooth Damage
- Active Gum Disease
- Insufficient Tooth Structure
- Poor Oral Hygiene
- Temporary Situations
Same-Day Dental Crowns And Crown Placement Duration
Same-Day Dental Crowns
Dentists can offer same-day crowns by utilizing the latest technologies to streamline the process. Traditional steps involving impressions and fabricating the crown in a dental lab are replaced with 3D-imaging technology. A highly accurate digital scan of the teeth is created, which is then sent to a computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) device to fabricate the crown in the patient’s chosen material. This method enables dentists to create and place a crown all in a single visit.
Number Of Visits Required For Crown Placement
While same-day crown options are available, most crown placements typically require two or three appointments. During the first appointment, the tooth is prepared, and impressions are taken. The patient returns for a follow-up visit, usually several weeks later, to have the permanent crown placed.
Amount Of Tooth Enamel Removed And Longevity Of Dental Crowns
Amount Of Tooth Enamel Removed
Different types of crown materials necessitate varying amounts of tooth enamel removal. This process ensures the crown placement is strong and stable. On average, approximately 65-75% of the tooth enamel is removed. Although this might sound like a significant amount, it is essential to remember that the average thickness of tooth enamel is only around 2.5 mm.
Longevity Of Dental Crowns
Commonly cited information suggests that dental crowns have a lifespan of 5 to 15 years. However, it is important to note that lower-quality crowns contribute to these lower averages. When high-quality materials are used by experienced practitioners and patients adhere to necessary precautions to extend the life of their crowns, dental crowns can last upwards of 30 years.
Pain Management and Cost Considerations for Dental Crowns
Pain Management During Dental Crown Placement
Having a dental crown placed is typically associated with the same level of discomfort as having a dental filling performed. Dentists may administer local anesthesia and offer conscious sedation to alleviate any pain or discomfort.
Cost Of Dental Crowns
Estimating the cost of dental crowns can be challenging due to various factors. The cost can vary based on the materials chosen and the expertise of the dental practitioner. As a general estimate, patients can expect to pay somewhere between $1,100 and $3,700 for a dental crown.
Dr. Edward Doktorman’s comprehensive approach to dental crowns ensures that patients in Clifton, New Jersey receive high-quality restorations that not only improve dental health but also enhance their smiles. By providing detailed information about dental crown procedures, aftercare, longevity, pain management, and cost considerations, individuals can make educated choices and approach dental crown placement with confidence. Requesting a smile consultation from Dr. Edward Doktorman, your trusted dentist in Clifton, can further guide individuals toward personalized solutions for their dental crown needs. Take the first step toward restoring your smile and schedule a dental crown consultation today by calling 973-778-0013 or book an appointment online.
Important Medical Warnings for Dental Crown
Before getting a dental crown, it's important to discuss your full medical history with your dentist, as certain conditions or medications can affect the procedure. Whether you’re opting for a tooth crown, cosmetic crown, or other types of dental crowns, be sure to understand the materials used, especially if you have allergies or sensitivities. Carefully follow all aftercare instructions to ensure the crown’s durability and avoid complications. If you notice any discomfort, sensitivity, or other issues following the procedure, contact your dentist promptly. Regular check-ups are essential to monitor the condition of your dental crown and maintain overall oral health.
Oral Care After the Dental Crown Procedure
Proper care after receiving a dental crown is crucial to ensure its longevity and maintain oral health. Follow these tips:
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Brush gently around your tooth crown using a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Floss daily, paying special attention to the area around the dental crown to prevent plaque buildup.
Avoid Hard Foods
Refrain from biting down on hard foods or ice, which could damage the dental or cosmetic crown. Stick to softer foods in the days immediately following the procedure.
Monitor Sensitivity
Some sensitivity is normal after getting a cosmetic crown, but if it persists or worsens, contact your dentist.
Regular Dental Visits
Schedule regular check-ups to ensure your dental crown is secure and your oral health remains in good condition.
Address Issues Promptly
If you notice any discomfort, cracks, or loosening of the tooth crown, see your dentist immediately to prevent further complications.
By following these care guidelines, you can help ensure the success and longevity of your dental crown.
Wide Range of Insurance Plans Accepted for Dental Crowns
Dr. Doktorman is in-network with many major insurance providers, including:
- Metlife
- Delta Dental
- Aetna
- Cigna
- Guardian
- Principal
We work with numerous other plans as well. If you have any questions about your dental coverage, we're happy to assist you.
Before and After Dental Crowns
Before
After
Why us
Why Choose Dr. Edward Practice for Dental Crowns?
Dr.Doktorman offers full range of services in the scope of general dentistry,such as cosmetic composite fillings,root canals,removable dentures of multiple designs,crown and bridges,surgical services and gum treatment.
Dr.Doktorman completed implant residency in NYU.All phases of implant dentistry are performed in our office.We offer implant placement,variety of implant supported restorations both fixed and removable. Our office offers a FREE consultation for the patients interested in implant placement and restorations.
Certified Excellence in Dental Crowns
Testimonials
What Our Clients Say About Dental Crowns
Highly recommended! Have been a happy patient here for many years and even after moving quite far away from this doctor’s office, still go here for my dentist work. Very professional, friendly, knowledgeable, best-for-the-patient experience every time.
Highly recommend Prestige Dental! The staff is very welcoming and professional. Dr. Doktorman is very skilled and thorough, taking the time to explain each step and answer all questions. The office is clean, modern, and well-organized, which adds to the overall positive experience.
I can say that the Dr. Edward Doktorman is a highly experienced dentist This is our family doctor for many years. The doctor and his assistant are always highly qualified and attentive. I have never experienced any discomfort either during or after the procedures. I highly recommend Dr. Edward Doktorman and thank his office for their professionalism.
I recently had the pleasure of visiting Dr. Doctorman for a dental check-,up and cleaning, and I couldn’t be more satisfied with the experience . From the moment I walked into the clinic, I was greeted with a worm and friendly atmosphere. The stuff were incredibly professional and made me feel at ease right away . Doctor Doctorman it’s truly exceptional. His expertise and gentle approach made the entire experience pain-free and pleasant. I am particularly impressed but his attention to detail and the thoroughness of the examination. Dr. Doctorman and his team are dedicated to providing top-notch care, and it shows in every aspect of their practice. I recommend this dental practice to anyone in need of dental care. Their professionalism, kindness, and skill make them an outstanding choice for all your dental needs. Thank you Doctor for making my visit such as a positive experience!
The staff is very professional and friendly from the moment you walk in and throughout your appointment. I received excellent care. The doctor is amazing and skilled! He always makes sure I’m comfortable when I feel nervous. I like my implants 🙂 I highly recommend Prestige Dental!
Dr. Doktorman and his staff are absolutely incredible! My family and I have been patients of Prestige Dental for over 10 years. They consistently provide a comfortable and relaxed environment, explaining procedures clearly and taking the time to address all my concerns. I always feel confident in their expertise and leave with a healthy smile thanks to their gentle touch and thorough care.
I been their patient for more than 15 years. I love the service, the place and Dr.Doktorman is a great dentist. He has angel hands (I always feel very comfortable in all the procedures)
Dr. Edward Doktorman was super attentive to my needs. He gives undivided attention and really cares. He makes you feel very comfortable right away! Their office has very nice ambience and their personnel are very pleasing and friendly! Thank you for being there!!
Prestige Dental in NJ provides exactly what you want in a dental practice – straightforward, quality care without the unnecessary frills. Dr. Doktorman runs an efficient office with current technology and a competent staff who know their stuff. The pricing is clear upfront, appointments run on time, and they don’t try to upsell you on treatments you don’t need. When I needed a crown, they handled it professionally and followed up appropriately. The office is clean, parking is easy, and they work with most insurance providers.
Dr. Dorktorman is an excellent, caring dentist who explains things in detail and has a sense of humor that helps me stay calm during my visits. The staff at Prestige Dental is professional, efficient, and friendly. I Definitely recommend!
Please know that I highly recommend Prestige Dental. Dr.Doktorman is great, he’s got a excellent sense of humor which takes your mind off of the dental work and he truly cares about his patients! Also, their dental assistants and staff are fantastic! They make you feel very comfortable in the office, they work with you on their fees, and they’re very good corresponding with your insurance company for coverage. Going to the dentist has always been hard for me, but I don’t even think twice now when going to Prestige Dental.
I have been patient of Dr. Doktorman for over 12 years. He is very skilled and professional and performed various treatments- root canals, implants, bone grafts, cavity fillings, deep cleaning. I am very satisfied with his services. Also his office is very well organized. There is no waiting time for scheduled appointments. His assistant is excellent.
I have been a patient of Dr. Doktorman for over 20 years. He is an outstanding clinician: very knowledgeable and thorough but most importantly- honest and professional! I fully trust his opinion and will always come to him to him for any dental needs I have; even though I have to travel pretty far to see him in Clifton, NJ. He did an outstanding job on my front teeth crowns and is very knowledgeable and meticulous when it comes to implants. If you are looking for the best dentist- you don’t have to look any further – visit him in Prestige Dental and you won’t be disappointed- he is the best dentist there is and the only one for me!!! He has a lovely team on board as well! Thank you for all the work you did for me that made me feel more comfortable and confident!!!
Dr. Doktorman and the staff at Prestige Dental are wonderful. They are professional and caring. I have always been fearful of dentists since I was a child. Dr Doktorman is truly caring and both he and his staff always ensure my visits are seamless and without pain or discomfort. Any procedures are explained completely and all my questions are always answered.The staff is always great at helping me navigate the complex insurance issues. They are also quite flexible with scheduling appointments or when I have to reschedule. Parking is ample and they even have Saturday hours that help greatly when you have busy schedules. I am truly grateful for their care.
I recently had the pleasure of visiting Dr. Doktorman at Prestige Dental in Clifton, NJ, and I couldn’t be more satisfied with my experience. From the moment I arrived, the staff made me feel welcome and comfortable. Dr. Doktorman is not only highly skilled but also incredibly thorough and patient. He took the time to explain my treatment options clearly, ensuring I understood each step. The office is spotless and equipped with state-of-the-art technology, which gave me great confidence in the care I was receiving. My procedure was smooth, painless, and surprisingly quick. If you’re looking for a dentist who genuinely cares about patient comfort and quality care, I highly recommend Dr. Doktorman and his team at Prestige Dental!
Dr. Doktorman’s practice is very accommodating. The doctor is skillful and has a great bedside manner. Dr. Doktorman took care of my daughter’s bruxism and ended her constant pain, was always available to troubleshoot on the phone and very kind.
Pretiges Dental is outstanding, using there superb expertise, first rate skills to provide the best care to dental patients like me.
Have been Dr.Doktorman’s patient for several years and could not be happier! He is an amazing dentist with great bedside manners. Highly recommend!
Dr Doktorman is an extremely knowledgeable and attentive to patients needs professional. The office is neat , the staff is great.
One of the best dentists in the area! Makes you feel comfortable, explains things in detail and always makes sure that you’re pain-free. Definitely recommend!
Great doctor and staff, I’ve been a patient for 6 years, going strong! The doctor does a great job and explains everything that needs to be done. The staff is on point with communication with me and giving me all the info I need, they treat me very well.
I’ve been seeing Dr. Doktorman for years, for various dental work. He is The Best! Very efficient and professional, always makes the experience pain free and easy. The staff is kind, friendly, and courteous, they make me feel like family. I highly recommend Prestige Dental. They are easy to find and have a large parking lot.
I’ve been a regular patient of Dr. Doctorman for over a decade, and I can confidently say he’s an exceptional dentist. His expertise and attention to detail have resolved all my dental issues, and his commitment to thorough, personalized care is unmatched. I consistently receive top-notch treatment during my regular checkups, and his friendly demeanor makes each visit pleasant. Dr. Doctorman is the ultimate professional in his field, and I highly recommend him to anyone seeking reliable and effective dental care.
Dr. Doktorman and his team are a top-notch group for all your dental needs! I have been going to Dr. Doktorman for over 10 years and know that I am in the best hands whether it’s for my routine check-ups or consultations. Dr. Doktorman is very knowledgeable, friendly, and answers all of your questions thoroughly. If you are looking for a top-notch dentist for yourself or loved ones, I highly recommend Dr. Doktorman!
I have been a patient of Dr. Doktorman at Prestige Dental for over 9 years. In addition to being a skilled, caring professional, Dr. Doktorman is a very personable and immediately puts patients at ease. He makes sure the patient understands their treatment plan, explaining it in an easy-to-understand manner. The office staff is also top notch. They are friendly and helpful at all times. Dr. Doktorman has responded to me after hours and on weekends when I called about emergent dental issues. I have lived in two different states and had several dentists throughout my life. Dr. Doktorman through his practice Prestige Dental is the finest dental provider I have found. I highly recommend Prestige Dental for all your dental needs.
I have been a patient of Doktorman for 20 years, and I can confidently say that he is the epitome of professionalism in dentistry. Throughout my career in the fashion and modeling industry, I have been privileged to work with some of the best doctors, and Doktorman meets the highest standards of excellence.Every procedure I’ve undergone has been executed with utmost precision and care. Edward is always available and goes above and beyond to accommodate his patients’ needs. His dedication to providing exceptional dental care has earned my trust and loyalty.I highly recommend Dr. Edward to all my friends and relatives. If you are looking for a dentist who combines skill, professionalism, and a personal touch, Dr. Doktorman is the one to see.
I’ve had such a wonderful experience at the Dr Edward Doktorman office!Everything from the very beginning at the free consultation, all the way through to getting my implants has been a smooth and stressful experience.Dr.Doktorman is best dental implant doctor who made me feel comfortable from the moment I sat in the chair!He explained everything step by step. His staff is fantastic and so friendly and has treated me with respect.So happy with my service!I would recommend Dr Edward Doktorman and his staff to anyone.
I recently visited Doktorman for a tooth filling, and I couldn’t be more pleased with the experience. The front desk staff was incredibly friendly and welcoming, making the check-in process smooth and efficient. My appointment started right on time, which is always appreciated.Doctor was professional and attentive throughout the procedure. They explained everything clearly and ensured I was comfortable at all times. I was particularly impressed with the transparency in billing – there were no unexpected charges or unnecessary services recommended.Overall, I am very happy with the care I received and would highly recommend this office to anyone in need of dental services. Thank you for making my visit a pleasant one!
My recent visit to the dentist for dental crowns exceeded all my expectations. The attention to detail and the dentist’s commitment to perfection were evident throughout the procedure. I’m genuinely impressed!
I can’t thank my dentist enough for the wonderful dental implants. The transformation in my oral health is remarkable. From the initial consultation to the final result, the entire journey was top-notch.
Remarkable how the dental crowns seamlessly blend with my existing teeth – a true testament to the dentist’s artistry. The procedure was comfortable, and I’m thrilled with my rejuvenated smile.
They are the best in this field. They provided quality service. Throughout the whole process, they support me like none other. Will surely recommend my friends and family.
Doctor Edward Doktorman luckily for me, has been my Dentist of choice for so many years. I have done multiple implants, root canals, bone graft, new posts and crowns, deep cleaning, filling, recementing, and other dental procedures in this office, and never had any issues afterwards. Dr. Edward and his staff are also great people on the personal level, very accommodating, very friendly, nice, helpful, go out of their ways to make the patient feel comfortable, and always smiling and joking with patients to lessen the stress of being at the dentist office. The Doctor always takes X-rays much more often than other dentists do before and after procedures (at no add’l cost to the patient) to make sure his work is done perfectly and satisfactorily. He always takes his time to explain in details what the diagnosis is and what needs to be done in an easy to understand language. You are no doubt in good hands with Doktorman.
From phone, to door, to chair, back to the door, this was a very positive experience. I put off a root canal for way too long. Don’t do that, by the way. Anyway, I ended up with a very angry abscess, went to one of those online doctors for $65 and got antibiotics and a dental rinse, and as soon as the swelling was sufficiently down, I decided to just have the tooth yanked. Back molar, not going to miss it too much, a lot cheaper than even going to Los Algones Mexico for a root canal which honestly these days makes a lot more sense than having it done for the higher price (even when factoring in air fare and hotel for dental tourism to Mexico) here in the States. In any case, everyone, and I mean everyone at this office is so friendly and polite and professional and efficient. It just so happened, and I certainly can’t guarantee this nor could this dentist, but I ended up being charged slightly less than the estimate they gave me. Even had it been the top and of the estimate, it’s still would have been a good deal. I would add that I am not a fan of Novocaine at all, and have had dental work done before without the shot because the regular pain I can handle, but I’m a baby about the Novocaine shot. This time I didn’t want to mess around since I was having a tooth pulled, but the dentist gave a fantastic shot and the entire procedure he did an excellent job. The healing process has been going very well with the exception of a bit of sharp bone sticking out the inner side of my gum (according to Google, this is not abnormal after a tooth extraction) and attacking my tongue on that side. I let them know about this today which is a Monday. I’m not scheduled to be back to have the stitches out until Thursday, but they told me that they would fit me in tomorrow.So let’s review: everyone in that office is friendly, professional, responsive, accommodating and efficient, the pricing is very gentle, and the dentist himself Dr. Doktorman does excellent work. So if you’re anywhere in reasonable commute distance and in need of a dentist, this seems like a pretty obvious choice. Going to a dentist is not recreational, but seriously, you’re going to be happy with them here.
Information
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Crowns
Why Is A Dental Crown Needed?
A dental crown may be necessary in various situations, including:
Protecting a weak tooth: A dental crown can prevent a weak tooth, such as one affected by decay, from breaking or fracturing. It provides structural support and stability to the tooth.
Restoring a broken or worn-down tooth: If a tooth has been severely broken or worn down, a dental crown can restore its shape, function, and aesthetics. It helps strengthen and rebuild the damaged tooth structure.
Supporting a tooth with a large filling: When a tooth has a significant filling, especially if there is minimal natural tooth structure remaining, a dental crown can provide additional support and prevent further damage.
Anchoring a dental bridge: Dental crowns are used to hold a dental bridge in place. They serve as abutments, anchoring the bridge to the adjacent teeth and restoring the gap left by a missing tooth.
Covering misshapen or discolored teeth: Dental crowns can be used to improve the appearance of misshapen or severely discolored teeth. They can enhance the symmetry, size, and color of the teeth, creating a more harmonious smile.
Covering a dental implant: After a dental implant is surgically placed in the jawbone, a dental crown is attached to the implant to replace the missing tooth. It restores both the appearance and function of the natural tooth.
What Types Of Crowns Are Available?
Permanent crowns can be made from different materials, including:
All metal: Metal crowns are typically made of gold alloy, other alloys like palladium, or base-metal alloys such as nickel or chromium. They are highly durable, resistant to wear and tear, and rarely chip or break. However, their metallic color may be a drawback, making them more suitable for molars.
Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM): PFM crowns combine the strength of metal with the aesthetic appeal of porcelain. They can be color-matched to adjacent teeth, but the porcelain portion may chip or break over time. The metal substructure may also show as a dark line, particularly near the gum line if gums recede. They are commonly used for both front and back teeth.
All resin: All-resin crowns are cost-effective but less durable than other types. They are more prone to wear and fractures over time, making them less suitable for long-term use.
All ceramic or all porcelain: These crowns provide the best natural color match and are suitable for individuals with metal allergies. They offer excellent aesthetics but are not as strong as PFM crowns and may cause slight wear on opposing teeth. All-ceramic crowns are often preferred for front teeth.
Temporary Versus Permanent Crowns:
Temporary crowns are made in the dentist’s office, usually using acrylic or stainless steel materials. They serve as a temporary restoration until the permanent crown is fabricated in a dental laboratory. Permanent crowns are custom-made to ensure an accurate fit and optimal aesthetics.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
The lifespan of a dental crown varies, but on average, they can last between 5 and 15 years. The longevity of a crown depends on factors such as the amount of wear it experiences, adherence to good oral hygiene practices, and personal habits. Avoiding habits like teeth grinding or clenching, chewing on hard objects, biting nails, and using teeth to open packaging can help extend the lifespan of a dental crown. Regular dental check-ups and maintenance are also essential for monitoring the condition of the crown and addressing any potential issues.
By recognizing the importance of dental crowns and understanding the process involved, individuals can overcome their dental anxieties and make informed decisions regarding their oral health.
Regular dental visits, proactive care, and early treatment can prevent the need for extensive dental work.
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Clifton, New Jersey 07013
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