For many years dental crowns were primarily metal, often creating problems from allergic reactions to heightened tooth sensitivity. They were also easily detected, even in the backs of mouths. But modern dental crowns allow for stable and seamless restoration after tooth loss, and also provide beautiful protection for weak or damaged teeth. So if restorative dentistry is in your future, it can be useful understanding how crowns can help. There are several options when it comes to modern dental crowns, all of which can do wonders for your smile.
What Problems Can Dental Crowns Address?
Dental crowns are often used to protect teeth after a deep cavity has been filled, or after root canal therapy has been performed. By affixing a crown atop a tooth, your dentist can help prevent further infection.
Crowns can also be used on teeth that are chipped or cracked, in order to prevent the chip or crack from worsening with wear. The crown will take the brunt of your chewing and biting, helping to keep your tooth in tact, underneath it.
Finally, crowns can be used as part of a restorative treatment, completing your smile after the loss of a tooth. Crowns are beautiful forms of restoration often used in dental bridges and dental implants.
What Material Options Are There?
There are three primary materials used to create modern dental crowns: porcelain, zirconia and porcelain-fused-to-metal.
Porcelain is valued for its durability, and also because it can be crafted to match your natural teeth. Zirconia is much like porcelain, in that it creates a natural-looking restoration, but it is even stronger, which means it can be used to replace or cap even heavily used back teeth. (This option is also advisable for patients that grind their teeth, such as those suffering from bruxism.)
PFM, or porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are comprised of a metal base and a porcelain top. As their name indicates, these combine the cosmetic appeal of porcelain with the strength of a metal base
ABOUT YOUR DOWNEY, CA, RESTORATIVE DENTISTS:
Dr. Hadis Reyhani, Dr. Ben Reyhani, and Dr. Pasha Hakimzadeh, DDS, provide a wealth of combined experience, along with innovative technology and personalized care, to help improve our patients’ dental health so they can enjoy smiling again. To schedule a consultation, call Downey Family Cosmetic Dentistry today at 562-472-2433.
