Dental Crowns: What Are My Options?

One of several dental treatments provided for patients, dental crowns are a common option when it comes to assisting with teeth issues. Dental crowns are used to cover a damaged tooth so that it can be strengthened, and the appearance improved. Dental crowns help with the teeth alignment and serve to ensure that your mouth stays healthy and functional. If your dentist has recommended that you have a crown put in place, you may be wondering how the process is completed and what type of crowns are available. By learning more about the process, you can feel more comfortable with the procedure.

Crown Creation

Dental crowns are created from a particular material and are cemented on to the tooth. Often known as a cap, the dental crown cannot be removed once in place unless a dentist completes the removal process. To make a crown, an impression of the tooth or teeth need to be made. The dentist will make an impression based on the tooth or teeth that need to be created.

Before the impression can be completed, the dentist may have to reduce the size of your tooth, so the crown fits properly. A temporary crown may also be put in place for you to eat comfortably while the permanent one is being created.

Dental Crown Types

There are four types of dental crowns that are commonly used by dentists to repair the teeth. When having a crown created, it is important to review the types with your dentist and determine which option you want to go with. The first type is known as ceramic. This crown type is commonly used to restore the front teeth when they are broken. Ceramic is easily able to blend in with the natural color of teeth and is constructed with a porcelain base material.

A second type that can be used is a metal fused with porcelain. This type creates a stronger bond to the original tooth than porcelain as it has a metal structure. When this option is used, the tooth will be very durable.

Gold alloys are also used to create dental crowns, with the crown being a mixture of copper and gold along with other metals. This type of crown will provide a solid bond to the original tooth as well as not be susceptible to fracturing or wear away the remaining portion of the tooth.

The last dental crown type available is created from base metal alloys. Non-noble metals are used to create the crown, which ensures the cap is corrosion resistant and very strong.

When you need a dental crown, these are your options. The dentist will be able to recommend the best type of your teeth based on your repair need. For some patients, a porcelain type will work best while others might require the durability of the gold or metal alloy crowns.

For all your dental crown needs, rely on our dentists in Chippewa Falls. Schedule an appointment today to have your teeth reviewed for a crown or learn more about our dental crown options.