When a gap in your smile makes you frown, consider a dental crown. This dental solution is often non-invasive, inexpensive, and can be done without multiple dental appointments. To find out more about the dental crown process, read on.
Crown and Bridge Construction
Your missing tooth gap can be filled in with a crown. A crown is simply a false tooth that has been custom designed, shaped, and colored to match your surrounding teeth. Though crowns have several uses, when used with a bridge, it usually comprises the middle of the bridge. The bridge is a wire structure that secures the crown to your other teeth. That way, the crown rests against your gums and next to your healthy teeth on each side. The crown is attached with small wires.
If the teeth on each side of the missing tooth are damaged, a crown can be used to cover the damaged tooth so that the bridge is attached to the new, healthier crown. The wiring used to attach the crown may be visible if used in teeth near the front of your mouth. They tend to work better in the back of the mouth. If you have missing teeth in the front, ask your dentist about using a dental implant or a partial denture in that area.
Uses for Crowns
Crowns are usually made of various materials with the cost depending on whether it's made of porcelain, resin, or metals. Crowns are not flimsy or thin—they are meant to last a long time if taken care of. If you opt for a dental implant, the top part of the tooth is also called a crown. You can have crowns without bridges as well. For example, after a root canal, a crown might be used to replace a broken tooth. In some cases, crowns are made of porcelain in front and metal in the back.
Crowns may be used to help those who suffer from chronically weak enamel. Weak enamel can be caused by heredity, radiation, chemotherapy, and some medical conditions. Weak enamel can result in more cavities, broken teeth, and gum diseases. A crown can be fitted and placed on top of a weak tooth to keep it more stable and stronger.
Other uses for crowns include changing the shape of a tooth, covering up a stained or pitted tooth, addressing speech disorders caused by misshapen teeth, and repairing problems with chewing caused by misaligned teeth.
As you can see, crowns are extremely useful for many dental procedures. Contact a local dentist like Dr. Jon Douglas Lesan, DDS, RpH, PA for more info.
