A prosthetic dental crown is used to replace or protect the natural crown of a tooth. Crowns, which can be made of resin, porcelain, porcelain-over-metal, stainless steel or metal alloy, are permanent appliances that are bonded to a tooth or abutment. Here are a few dental applications for which crowns are used.
Dental Implants for Single Tooth Replacements
Dental implants are surgically implanted screws that replace the root of a tooth. Although the implant offers stability for the abutment and crown that are affixed to it, the implant cannot function as a full tooth prosthetic without a crown.
The stability of the implant occurs over time as the implant fuses with the jawbone. Once the implant site has sufficiently healed, an abutment can be attached to the implant to connect the screw to a dental crown. The crown restores the chewing ability of the tooth.
Dental Bridges
Conventional dental bridges include one or more false teeth in the center of the appliance with a crown on each end of the prosthetic appliance. The false teeth rest in the gap left by the lost or missing natural teeth. However, the crowns are affixed to the bordering teeth on each side of the once-empty space.
Since the crowns are bonded to the bordering teeth, the bridge stays firmly in place.
Deep Cavities
When your dentist removes the decay associated with a deep cavity, the tooth may no longer be structurally sound. In addition, the inside of the tooth may not be properly protected from oral bacteria. A crown is applied to fortify the tooth and protect it from bacterial invasion.
Chipped or Cracked Teeth
A tooth that has been chipped or cracked may need a dental crown to restore the tooth cosmetically and reinforce it structurally. If the tooth is not properly reinforced, the chip or crack could worsen from bite pressure.
Root Canal
A root canal is performed to salvage a tooth that is damaged by an infection or decay. Once the soft living material inside the tooth swells, it can inflame dental nerves, causing excruciating discomfort.
During the endodontic procedure, the soft living material that fills the inner chamber of the tooth is removed. The chamber is subsequently disinfected and filled before a permanent dental crown is affixed to protect the tooth and restore its chewing ability.
If you are planning to have a restorative dental procedure, dental crowns may needed. Schedule an appointment with a dentist in your area to learn about the crown options that may be available for you.
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