Currently, tooth fillings and crowns are the most popular therapeutic dental operations. According to statistics, dental crowns are used by at least fifteen million Americans. However, conducting research before undergoing any dental treatment is always advisable. In this blog, we'll review five things you should consider before getting a dental crown. But before that:
What is a Dental Crown?
An artificial tooth, also known as a dental cap, is fitted to a weak tooth or implant to restore the functioning and appearance of your teeth.
When is a Dental Cap Used?
Your dentist may propose a dental crown in the following situations:
- After root canal therapy.
- To provide support for dental bridges.
- To protect weak teeth.
- After a dental implant procedure.
- Restore the size and shape of a severely decayed tooth.
- To cover discolored teeth and restore the appearance of your smile.
Factors to Consider While Choosing a Dental Cap
Here are the important factors you should examine before deciding on a specific dental cap:
Examine the Need for the Cap
Dental crowns are utilized for both restorative and esthetic purposes. The crown process is irreversible and slightly more expensive, so make sure it's what you want. However, if you desire one for cosmetic reasons, you should investigate other less invasive procedures that can produce similar effects. For example, consider dental bonding or veneers if you wish to hide stained teeth.
However, if a crown is recommended for restorative purposes, you should consider it. Crowns are durable, attractive, and can last for a long time, depending on the material used. You should utilize a dental crown following the root canal and implant treatment.
Compare the Materials
There are numerous types of crown materials available, and the ideal one for you will be determined by the location of the tooth and your budget. The most frequent materials include stainless steel, metal alloys, porcelain, resin, and porcelain-fused-to-metal.
Stainless steel is only temporarily used while permanent crowns are being fabricated in the dental office. It is mostly used by youngsters following a baby tooth extraction to preserve space for permanent teeth.
Metal alloys are strong and enduring, but they are not visually appealing. That is why they are commonly prescribed for rear teeth. Gold crowns can be used on both the front and back teeth. Most people don't mind showing off their gold teeth.
Resin crowns are prone to chipping and breaking. Nevertheless, they are highly aesthetically pleasing because they may be customized to match the color of your teeth. We strongly recommend them for front teeth.
Porcelain crowns are durable and robust, as well as quite attractive and stain-resistant. They can be used on both front and back teeth, but we mostly recommend them for front teeth because they are not as strong as genuine teeth.
If you wish to utilize porcelain on your rear teeth, use porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns. They are stronger and can resist the pressure of continuous chewing. The metal line may show with time, which is why we recommend them for back teeth.
Compare Costs
Resin is the most cheap of the alternatives. However, it is prone to breaking and does not survive very long. Gold is both strong and durable, but it is also a little pricey. Metal alloy crowns are inexpensive and durable; however, amalgam can pose a health risk because of the mercury content.
Crowns made of porcelain are sturdy, long-lasting, and visually appealing. However, they are slightly more expensive. Still, we always advocate porcelain crowns. They are well worth their money.
Consider Durability
Gold and metal alloy caps have the most durability, lasting up to 20 years. Porcelain is also quite durable, lasting more than ten years. Resin typically lasts roughly five years.
Consider Appearance
You want to choose something that makes you grin more because of how nice it appears. Gold is attractive since it is a classic metal. Porcelain and resin crowns are the most aesthetically pleasing because they may be customized to match your teeth color. Metal alloy crowns are the least aesthetically pleasing, which is why they are frequently used for back teeth.
Brunswick Smiles
If you are looking for a dentist in Stamford, CT, you may try googling “dental crowns near me.” Professional dentists provide high-quality oral care; you can count on good cosmetic and restorative services.