A dental crown is a cap made from metal, porcelain, ceramic, or another type of material to strengthen a tooth that has been damaged. It is also used for restoring a tooth that has been lost. To have your crown made, your dentists will first take an impression. When the crown has been created, the dentists will cement it onto the tooth to keep it in place and restore your smile.
The other restorative dentistsry options available to repair a damaged tooth include tooth-colored fillings and dental bonding. However, a dental crown is used when the damage is too severe for either of these options. At Cornerstone Dental, once your dentists determines a crown is the best option, the decision must be made of what type would work best for you.
To learn more about the types of crowns we offer, call Cornerstone Dental in Fargo, ND today at 701-237-3583 and schedule a consultation with one of the doctors.
Metal Crowns
Metal crowns are made from gold alloy or a mixture of gold, copper, chromium, palladium, nickel, zinc, and other metals. Metal crowns are durable, resistant to corrosion, and provide an extremely strong bond to the tooth keeping it from further damage. Metal crowns also require the least amount of remaining tooth structure to be removed, which provides one of the more common benefits. However, because they do have a metal color, they are recommended for repairing teeth in the back of your mouth.
Porcelain and Ceramic Crowns
Because porcelain and ceramic crowns provide the ability to match the natural color of the tooth, they are most commonly used for repairing teeth that are visible when you smile. This is a great option for patients with metal sensitivities or patients looking for a cost-effective, natural looking solution. However, compared to metal crowns they can fracture easily and cause damage to adjacent teeth.
Porcelain-fused to Metal Crowns
A porcelain-fused to metal crown involves layers of porcelain over a metal base. This is a great option for patients that want the strength of a metal crown but the look of a natural tooth. It is a strong, durable, cost-effective, and long-lasting solution for patients with weak or worn teeth.
Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia crowns are made from the metal zirconium, a white crystalline oxide. Zirconia is stronger than porcelain and bonds similarly to the tooth as metal crowns. It is a strong solution that can be colored to match the natural look of your teeth. However, it does have drawbacks for patients with metal sensitivities.
Same-Day CEREC® Crowns
With the invention of CEREC® technology, ceramic crowns can now be designed and placed in one office visit. CEREC® crowns are a non-invasive and cost-effective solution for repairing a tooth. They can also be created to fit a dental implant in order to completely replace a missing tooth. An added benefit to CEREC® crowns is their strength, durability, and ability to mimic the natural look and texture of tooth enamel.
Maintaining Your Crown
Although crowns can weaken or fall out, depending on the option you choose and if they are properly maintained, crowns can last you for many years. The best way to maintain your dental restoration is following good oral hygiene by:
- Brushing twice a day
- Flossing daily
- Rinsing with an antibacterial mouth wash
- Visiting our dentistss at Cornerstone Dental for regular checkups every six months
Call Today!
Are you in need of a dental crown? To find out which type of crown would work best for you, call Cornerstone Dental in Fargo, ND today at 701-237-3583 and schedule a consultation with one of the doctors.