Do you have a damaged or chipped tooth that looks unsightly whenever you smile? If you do, then a dental crown is one of the ways to address your problem.
A dental crown is a cap that is installed on top of a damaged tooth to protect it from infection, as well as restore its previous appearance. Although the reason for many people getting dental crowns is for cosmetic purposes, they also have some benefits beyond the aesthetic. If you are interested, you can talk to Dr. Dennis Tan in Singapore.
Dental crowns are custom made for each person, and are designed to not only restore the tooth’s shape and appearance, but to also protect it and make the tooth more resistant against damage. Dental crowns are usually permanent and are held in place by applying dental cement.
Why should you get a dental crown?
Well, there are many possible reasons why you may want to get a dental crown. Dental crowns offer several benefits that may be appetizing to you and it is up to you to determine if getting them is worth it.
Some of the many reasons why you might consider having a dental crown installed include the following:
- You have a weak tooth due to tooth decay and may want to prevent it from breaking down or from cracking.
- You want to improve the appearance of a tooth that may be cracked, chipped or is just small relative to your other teeth.
- You want to hold a dental bridge in place permanently.
- You have a broken or worn down tooth that needs restoration.
- You want to cover up a tooth that is misshapen or discoloured.
- You want to protect and cover a dental implant.
- You have just had a root canal and want to further protect the affected tooth.
What are the different types of dental crowns, and which one is best for you?
Dental crowns are made from a multitude of different materials which can vary in cost, strength, appearance and function. These include:
- Stainless Steel
A dental crown made from stainless steel is used primarily as a temporary crown whilst the permanent crown is being prepared. This type of crown is mostly used for children to protect a primary tooth, as they come out naturally when the primary tooth is replaced by the permanent tooth under it. It is also much easier to produce stainless steel dental crowns, which is perfect for children whose primary teeth are going to get replaced eventually.
- Metal
Dental crowns made of metal are usually the ones that last the longest and are the most resistant to being worn down. They are also great for withstanding pressure from biting and chewing and rarely break or chip. These crowns are produced using several possible metals, such as gold, nickel, palladium and nickel and are great options for molar teeth. The only downside with metal crowns is that they have an unnatural metallic color.
- All-resin
A less expensive option compared to other dental crowns is one that is made from resin. The downside to all-resin crowns, however, is that they are not as resistant to wear and tear compared to others, and may require replacement in the future.
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal
If you want a dental crown that is a good all-around option, then a porcelain-fused-to-metal crown is the one for you. These crowns are great as they can match colors with your surrounding teeth and look more natural compared to a metal crown. They are also durable crowns thanks to its metal frame. One downside, however, is that they can wear down the tooth opposite to it whenever that tooth comes in contact with the porcelain.
- All-porcelain or all-ceramic
When it comes to the general appearance, these crowns are the best as they look more natural compared to other types of dental crowns. Some people are allergic to some metals, and a dental crown completely made from porcelain or ceramic may be their only option. Compared to porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns though, all-porcelain or all-ceramic crowns wear down much quicker.
What steps are needed in preparation to getting a dental crown?
If you’ve decided to get one or more dental crowns, then your first step should always be to consult with your dentist. In your first visit, your dentist will examine the specific tooth that will receive the dental crown. An X-ray will be taken of that specific tooth and, depending on the health of that specific tooth, your dentist may have to perform a root canal on that tooth if needed.
The dentist will inject a local anesthetic on your tooth and surrounding gum tissue to numb it so that you don’t feel pain or discomfort. The tooth is then reshaped by the dentist to allow room for the dental crown to be attached. Your dentist will also make a mold of your tooth, which will be sent to a dental laboratory to produce your dental crown, which can take a few weeks to be finished. While waiting for your permanent dental crown to be finished, your dentist may fit you with a temporary one to protect your tooth.
When the permanent dental crown has been produced, it is time for your second visit to your dentist to have the crown installed. The temporary crown you’ve been fitted with in your first visit will be removed by your dentist. The permanent dental crown will then be fitted on your tooth and will be examined for any adjustments. Once everything looks good, your tooth will once again be put under a local anesthetic and the permanent dental crown is placed over your tooth and held in place using cement.
Is it worth it?
If you have any dental problems that can be addressed using dental crowns, then it is almost always worth it to get them. For one, the procedure in installing dental crowns is noninvasive and poses very little risk of infection. There are also many different types of dental crowns to allow you to choose one that fits your desired results and budget the best.
Dennis Tan Dental
The Arcade
11 Collyer Quay #03-28
Singapore 049317
Phone: +6564385622
Fax: +654385625
