A dental crown is a cap placed over an existing tooth to restore its strength, shape and size and/or to improve the tooth’s appearance. When cemented in place, the crown encases the visible portion of the existing tooth.
Crowns are utilised in a number of situations. They restore broken or worn down teeth and protect weak or broken teeth from decay and further breakage. Crowns also hold dental bridges in place and cover dental implants and discoloured or misshapen teeth.
Crowns can be made from a variety of materials. Metal crowns, made from alloys, require removal of less tooth structure than with other crown types. They also minimise wearing of opposing teeth, withstand biting and chewing forces well and rarely break or chip. However, given the drawback of their metallic colour, metal crowns are most suitable for out-of-sight molars.
Unlike metallic crowns, porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns can be colour-matched to existing teeth. The porcelain, however, can break or chip. Occasionally the metal underlying the porcelain can show through, along the gum line, particularly as the gums recede.
Porcelain High Strength Crowns, Procera or Zercona make a good choice for front teeth. Although they are not the cheapest option they provide the best colour match and are ideal for those who are allergic to metals’
Crowns are fitted in two stages. Measurement and preparation of the tooth is carried out on the first visit and placement of the permanent crown occurs during the second visit. Stainless steel or acrylic temporary crowns can be made in the dental practice as a temporary measure while the permanent crown is being constructed by a dental laboratory.
Raynesway Dental in Derby provides high quality crowns and excellent service. If unsightly teeth are ruining your smile, contact us today for further information. Check out our customer testimonials to see just how highly past patients rate our service.
