Why Are Dental Crowns so Important?

What are dental crowns?

Dental crowns are fixed prosthetic devices. Crowns are cemented onto existing teeth or implants and can only be removed by your dentist. Crowns are necessary when a tooth has been broken down and fillings won’t solve the problem. If a tooth has become cracked, a crown can hold the tooth together to prevent the damage from getting worse. Crowns can also be used to restore a tooth when there isn’t enough tooth remaining to support a large filling, protect weak teeth from fracturing, attach a bridge, cap a dental implant, or cover discolored or misshaped teeth.

When your children are in the need of a dental crown, it’s a good idea to learn about the different types of dental crowns and what their pros and cons are.

Gold or Metal Crowns

Metal crowns are typically made of gold allow. However, a variety of different alloys can be used for crown fabrication. Some of these metals are silver in color rather than a golden yellow.

Pros – Gold or metal crowns are made of a malleable material that makes it easier for your dentist to achieve a precise fit.

Cons – Gold or metal crowns are not as aesthetically pleasing as porcelain or ceramic crowns.

Porcelain or Ceramic Crowns

Porcelain or ceramic crowns are typically used on any teeth that show prominently when an individual smiles.

Pros – these crowns are cosmetically pleasing and are one of the best choices for restoring front teeth.

Cons – Porcelain or ceramic crowns are not as strong as metal crowns and may not be a good choice for your children’s back teeth.

Porcelain/Metal Crowns

Porcelain fused metal crowns or PFMs are a hybrid between metal and porcelain crowns. Dental technicians will create a shell of metal that fits over the tooth. A veneering of porcelain is then fused to the metal shell giving the dental crown a white tooth-like appearance.

Pros – PFMs are good for back or front teeth because they are strong and cosmetically pleasing.

Cons – PFMs can chip or break and can create wear on the teeth it bites or rubs against. If the gum line starts to recede, the metal shell may start to show.

How Long do Crowns Last?

Dental crowns should last five to eight years. With good oral hygiene practices, most crowns can last for much longer. Some damaging habits such as grinding your teeth, chewing ice or biting your fingernails can cause your dental crowns to wear down at a much faster rate.

Taking Care of Your Dental Crown

To prevent fracturing or damaging you or your child’s dental crown, avoid chewing on ice, hard foods or other hard objects. Teeth grinding should also be avoided. Besides visiting your local dentist in Independence MO, you should encourage your children to brush and floss their brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day.

So Let’s Recap! Dental Crowns Are Used For:

Protecting a weak tooth from breaking.

Restoring a broken or severely worn tooth.

Supporting a tooth with a large filling.

Correcting a discolored or misshapen tooth.

Holding a bridge in place.

Capping a dental implant.

If you looking for more information on dental crowns or are in need of cosmetic or restorative dentistry contact ABC Dental in Independence MO! We can help recover your child’s precious smile!