What is a Crown?
Just like the cap that covers your toothpaste bottle, a dental crown is a cap that covers your tooth. Typically made of zirconia, dental crowns are placed over teeth to restore tooth function and cosmetic appearance. Here are a few things to know about dental crown procedures.
What to Expect During a Dental Crown Procedure
Most dental crown procedures at Wetherill Family Dentistry involve two visits to the dentist’s office in Wilmington. During the first visit, Dr. Wetherill prepares the tooth by filing it down to remove its outer layer and then makes a mold of the tooth. The mold is used as the model to make the actual crown, which is typically made off-site at a laboratory and can take up to several weeks. In the meantime, your dentist will put a temporary crown on the tooth to protect it until the permanent crown is prepared, which will then be cemented on the tooth during the second visit.
When Might You Need a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is often used to cover a tooth that is already weakened, protecting the tooth from further decay and providing extra strength for chewing. A dental crown is also used to protect a tooth after a dental procedure, including a root canal or dental implant.
Dental crowns are also useful to cover teeth that are misshapen, discolored, or otherwise have an appearance that is not aesthetically pleasing. Getting crowns that are similar to the color of your teeth provides a natural appearance and enhances your smile.
Different Types of Dental Crowns
There are several kinds of dental crowns to choose from, each varying in strength, aesthetic, and cost. The right kind will depend on different factors, including the tooth’s location and the severity of the tooth’s damage. Below are two common options for dental crowns.
Gold Crowns
Gold crowns have been around for over a century and are extremely strong and durable. The only considerations with gold crowns are cost (more expensive) and appearance (in that some people may not like because they do not blend in color-wise with the other teeth). For this reason, gold crowns work great for back molars, where the crown is not entirely visible.
Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia crowns have porcelain components, and are a much newer technology. Zirconia crowns have the benefit of durability while also creating a natural appearance that matches the rest of your teeth. Zirconia crowns are the preferred type of crown offered by Dr. Wetherill.
Are Crowns Right For You?
Dental crowns are a great way to protect your teeth while maintaining a natural look. With plenty of options to choose from, you can ensure that you select the crown type that suits you best, combined with the best care here at Wetherill Family Dentistry. Contact our office today to schedule your appointment with our dental professionals.
