If you already have a tooth crown or you are about to get one, this is a very common question. Crowns can be a costly but worthy investment in your oral health. So, like any investment it’s good to know the payback period! While crowns are often quoted as lasting 10-15 years, this can be longer or shorter depending on a number of factors such as material, installation and ongoing care. The look, or aesthetics is another important consideration that goes into deciding what type of crown to place inside a patient’s mouth.
What is a crown?
A dental crown, also known as a dental cap, is a type of dental restoration that is used to cover and protect a damaged or weakened tooth. It is essentially a tooth-shaped “cap” that is placed over the visible part of the tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Dental crowns are commonly made from materials such as porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of materials.
How does a crown work?
Depending on the condition of the remaining tooth the tooth may need to be built up with a plastic material to form a core, or a gold post & crown may be used in a tooth that is endodontically treated. There are several situations where a dental crown might be recommended:
- Tooth Decay - When a tooth has extensive decay and a traditional dental filling would not provide enough support, a crown is used to cover and protect the remaining tooth structure.
- Fractured or Chipped Tooth - If a tooth is broken, cracked, or has a significant chip, a crown can be placed to hold the tooth together and prevent further damage.
- Root Canal Treatment - After undergoing root canal therapy, which involves removing the infected pulp from the tooth, a crown is often placed to protect the weakened tooth and restore its function.
- Cosmetic Reasons - Dental crowns can also be used for cosmetic purposes to improve the appearance of misshapen or severely discoloured teeth.
What can a crown be made of, and which material is best?
Crowns have been made from several materials over many years. The main balance being between cost, durability, and aesthetics. Some of the materials we use are:
- Zirconia (our most used material) - Known for its strength and durability. It is resistant to chipping and fracturing, making it suitable for molar teeth that experience higher biting forces.
- All Ceramic - This means that there is zirconia inside and porcelain baked on the outside which allows for better colouration. All ceramic is most used for aesthetic purposes. offer excellent aesthetics, as they can closely mimic the appearance of natural teeth in terms of colour, translucency, and texture. They are a popular choice for front teeth or highly visible areas.
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) - These have a metal base with a layer of porcelain fused on top. They provide a good balance between strength and aesthetics. The metal base adds durability, while the porcelain layer gives a natural appearance. Over time, the metal edge near the gum line may become visible either through wear and tear or gum recession.
- Gold Alloy - Gold crowns have been used in dentistry for many years due to their exceptional durability and biocompatibility. They are well-tolerated by the surrounding gum tissue and can withstand biting forces. While these went out of fashion for some time, they seem to be making a serious comeback!
Dr Finkelstein has been using the same technician to help him create beautiful smiles for over 35 years now. Their standards of the aesthetics & the fit of the crown both meet Dr Finkelstein’s expectations and hopes for the outcome best suited to the patient.
