18 Apr Tooth Decay: Will I need a dental crown?
Teeth are anatomically unique when compared to other hard and soft tissues in the body because they cannot self-heal. This means that a permanently damaged tooth cannot regenerate new tissue to heal like a ligament or bone can. For this reason, a restoration applied by a dentist is necessary to prevent the deepening of a cavity and to protect the tooth from further damage. When decay is severe, a restoration called a dental crown may be recommended. A dental crown is a custom restoration that allows a patient to keep a badly damaged tooth while ensuring optimal oral function in the future.
Following is some important information regarding damaged teeth and dental crowns.
What is a dental crown exactly?
A dental crown is a restoration that covers the entire tooth. Essentially, a crown is a cap that is tooth shaped. It is permanently bonded over biological tooth structure. Once placed, a dental crown will restore a tooth to its rightful shape and size so that oral function is increased and the tooth itself is protected from future damage.
What materials are used to make a crown?
An array of materials is used to make a crown. From standards like gold and silver to more natural looking options like porcelain or a combination of porcelain and metal, patients have many options from which they can choose.
Why is a crown custom made?
A crown is custom made because it must fit over a patient’s specific tooth. Everyone’s mouth and teeth are different sizes. This is why a dental crown is not a one size fits all type of restoration. After taking impressions of a patient’s mouth, our team will develop the precise specifications for this custom restoration, which will be made in a dental laboratory by skilled technicians. When a person’s crown is ready, it will be bonded over the tooth. Once the restoration process is complete, oral function and appearance are restored.
To learn more about our restorative services, call our office at The Dental Place to reserve a check up with our team.