A dental crown is a permanent restoration procedure whereby a tooth-shaped cap is placed on top of a decayed, broken or worn-down tooth to restore its shape, size and improve the appearance of your smile.
To ensure a good fit, Smile Solutions Richmond dentists will remove a small amount of enamel prior to the bonding of a new crown.
There are a number of reasons why you may want or need to get a crown, including but not limited to:
Smile Solutions Richmond provides a range of dental crowns which are made from different materials listed below.
Different materials for a crown are suitable depending on factors such as the location of the crown, the patient’s aesthetic preferences and the functional requirements of the tooth.
Materials used for dental crowns can include:
Various metals, such as gold and metal alloys are utilized by our dental technicians in the fabrication of dental crowns.
Crowns crafted from metal exhibit exceptional durability, seldom experiencing chipping or breaking. They also boast the longest lifespan in terms of wear and necessitate minimal enamel removal, while also withstanding the rigors of biting and chewing.
The primary drawback lies in their metallic appearance. Despite this, metal crowns prove to be an excellent option, particularly for molars located out of direct visibility.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) crowns are composed of a metal core covered with a layer of tooth-colored porcelain. Combining the durability of metal with the natural aesthetic of porcelain, PFM crowns allow us to seamlessly match the shade of your existing teeth with the new crowns.
While PFM crowns offer notable strength and appearance, they do come with certain considerations as, over time, the porcelain coating may chip, revealing the metal layer beneath.
Additionally, there's a possibility of gradual enamel wear on opposing teeth, the ones that make contact with the crown during mouth closure.
Despite these considerations, PFM crowns boast a longevity comparable to metal crowns and are versatile enough to restore both front and back teeth.
Zirconia dental crowns are made from the crystalline material zirconium oxide and known for their strength, durability and ability to naturally blend with the rest of a patient’s teeth.
Zirconia crowns' natural appearance makes them a popular choice for visible areas of the mouth, however, these are a more expensive option than other alternatives.
The lifespan of dental crowns can vary depending on several factors, including the condition of the tooth, material used, oral hygiene practices, and daily wear and tear they experience.
Generally, a dental crown lasts between 5 and 15 years on average. If you observe signs of wear or damage on the crown this would signify the need for a replacement.
Dental crown cost is influenced by the materials used and the quantity of crowns required.
As crown procedures fall under restorative treatments, only dental insurance plans encompassing major restorative dental care can provide coverage for crown treatment.
Still uncertain if dental crowns are the best choice for you?
Contact us via our website, email, or phone and let's explore what we can provide to fulfill your requirements!
