What Are Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns, often referred to as tooth crowns or dental caps, are custom-made prosthetic restorations designed to encase and cover the visible portion of a damaged, weakened, or aesthetically compromised tooth. These crowns are meticulously crafted to mimic the size, shape, and appearance of a natural tooth, restoring its function and aesthetics.

Historical Background:

The concept of dental crowns dates back thousands of years, with various materials and techniques used throughout history:

1. Ancient Civilizations: Ancient Egyptians and Etruscans are known to have used gold and other metals to create rudimentary dental crowns for both functional and decorative purposes.
2. 18th and 19th Centuries: Gold crowns became more common in the 18th and 19th centuries, although they were primarily functional in nature. The gold was often shaped into a cap and manually fitted onto a prepared tooth.
3. 20th Century Advances: The 20th century brought significant advancements in dental materials and techniques. Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns, which combined the strength of metal with the aesthetics of porcelain, gained popularity.
4. Contemporary Dental Crowns: Today, dental crowns are crafted from a variety of materials, including ceramics, porcelain, metals, and even advanced composite resins. These materials offer improved aesthetics and durability, making modern dental crowns an integral part of restorative and cosmetic dentistry.

Dental crowns offer a wide range of benefits, making them a versatile and essential component of restorative and cosmetic dentistry. Here are the key advantages of dental crowns:

1. Restoration of Tooth Functionality: Dental crowns are custom-made to fit over a damaged or weakened tooth, restoring its strength and functionality. This allows patients to bite, chew, and speak naturally.
2. Protection of Weakened Teeth: Crowns provide a protective barrier for teeth that have been significantly compromised by decay, large fillings, or fractures. They help prevent further damage and reduce the risk of tooth loss.
3. Aesthetic Enhancement: Dental crowns are crafted to match the color, shape, and appearance of natural teeth. They can be used to improve the aesthetics of teeth with severe discoloration, irregular shape, or cosmetic imperfections, enhancing the overall smile.
4. Longevity: High-quality dental crowns are known for their durability and long lifespan. With proper care and maintenance, they can last for many years, often exceeding a decade.
5. Versatility: Crowns are versatile and can be used for a variety of purposes, including restoring single damaged teeth, supporting dental bridges, and capping dental implants. They are also suitable for both anterior (front) and posterior (back) teeth.
6. Preservation of Healthy Tooth Structure: Crowns require the removal of only the damaged or decayed portion of the tooth, preserving as much healthy tooth structure as possible. This conservative approach is less invasive than some other restorative options.
7. Custom Fit: Dental crowns are custom-designed to precisely fit the individual tooth they are restoring. This ensures an optimal seal, minimizing the risk of leakage and providing a stable and long-lasting restoration.
8. Comfortable and Natural Feel: Once placed, dental crowns feel natural and comfortable in the mouth. They do not interfere with speech or eating, and patients quickly adapt to their presence.
9. Support for Dental Bridges: Crowns are used as anchor points for dental bridges, allowing for the replacement of missing teeth. They provide stability and support for the bridge, preventing adjacent teeth from shifting.
10. Compatibility with Dental Implants: Crowns can be placed on top of dental implants to replace missing teeth. This restores the look and function of natural teeth and helps maintain healthy bone density in the jaw.
11. Resistance to Staining: Certain crown materials, such as ceramics and porcelain, are highly resistant to staining. This helps maintain the restoration's appearance over time.
12. Enhanced Self-Confidence: Improved dental aesthetics and the restoration of oral function can boost a patient's self-esteem and confidence.

1. Initial Consultation:

• The process begins with an initial consultation with the dentist. During this appointment, the dentist will examine the affected tooth or teeth and discuss the need for a dental crown. X-rays may be taken to assess the extent of damage or decay.

2. Treatment Planning:

• Based on the evaluation, the dentist will create a treatment plan. This plan outlines the type of crown material to be used (e.g., ceramic, porcelain, metal, or porcelain-fused-to-metal) and discusses the procedure in detail.

3. Tooth Preparation:

• On the day of the crown placement, the tooth is prepared. This involves the removal of any damaged or decayed areas. The tooth is reshaped to create space for the crown. Local anesthesia is administered to ensure the patient's comfort during this process.

4. Impression Taking:

• Once the tooth is prepared, an impression (mold) of the tooth is taken. This impression is used to create a precise replica of the tooth for the dental laboratory to fabricate the crown. In some cases, digital impressions may be used for a more accurate fit.

5. Temporary Crown (if applicable):

• If the permanent crown is not immediately available, the dentist may place a temporary crown to protect the prepared tooth while the permanent crown is being fabricated. Temporary crowns are typically made from acrylic and are less durable than permanent crowns.

6. Crown Fabrication:

• The impression is sent to a dental laboratory where skilled technicians create the custom dental crown. The crown is crafted to match the size, shape, and color of the patient's natural teeth. This process may take a few weeks.

7. Crown Selection:

• Patients may have the opportunity to select the shade and color of their crown if it is being fabricated from materials that allow for aesthetic customization, such as ceramics or porcelain.

8. Crown Cementation:

• Once the permanent crown is ready, the temporary crown (if used) is removed, and the dentist checks the fit and appearance of the permanent crown. The crown is then bonded into place using adhesive techniques.

9. Cement Selection:

• The dentist selects an appropriate dental cement to secure the crown onto the prepared tooth. Adhesive bonding ensures a strong and long-lasting attachment.

10. Cement Selection:

• The dental crown is carefully placed within the prepared cavity and positioned precisely. Excess cement is removed, and the restoration is polished to achieve a smooth surface.

11. Occlusal Adjustment:

• The dentist makes any necessary adjustments to ensure that the crown fits seamlessly within the patient's bite, preventing interference or discomfort during chewing.

12. Final Polishing:

• The crown is polished to achieve a smooth and natural appearance, matching the color and luster of the adjacent teeth.

A suitable candidate for a dental crown is someone who has a tooth that requires restoration or enhancement. Dental crowns are versatile and can be recommended for various dental situations. Here are some factors that determine whether someone is a suitable candidate for a dental crown:

1. Tooth Damage: Patients with teeth that have significant damage due to decay, trauma, fractures, or wear and tear may be candidates for dental crowns. Crowns can help restore and protect these teeth.
2. Large Fillings: Teeth with large fillings, especially when the remaining natural tooth structure is minimal, may benefit from dental crowns. Crowns provide additional strength and support, reducing the risk of further damage.
3. Root Canal Therapy: After a root canal procedure, a tooth may become more brittle and prone to fracture. Placing a dental crown over the treated tooth helps reinforce it and prevents breakage.
4. Cosmetic Improvement: Dental crowns can be used to improve the aesthetics of teeth with severe discoloration, irregular shape, or cosmetic imperfections. They can create a natural and appealing appearance.
5. Support for Dental Bridges: Dental crowns are used as anchor points for dental bridges. Patients with missing teeth who are considering a dental bridge may require crowns on adjacent teeth to provide stability and support for the bridge.
6. Dental Implants: Dental crowns are placed on top of dental implants to replace missing teeth. They serve as the visible, functional part of the restoration.
7. Fractured or Cracked Teeth: Teeth that are fractured or cracked, but not severely damaged, can often be restored with dental crowns. Crowns hold the tooth together and prevent further fracturing.
8. Desire for Aesthetic Improvement: Individuals who want to enhance the appearance of their teeth, whether for cosmetic reasons or to correct misshapen or poorly formed teeth, may opt for dental crowns.
9. Conservative Restoration: Dental crowns are a conservative restorative option because they preserve as much healthy tooth structure as possible. This makes them suitable for patients who prefer minimal tooth reduction compared to other restorative options.
10. Customization: Dental crowns can be custom-designed to match the size, shape, and color of a patient's natural teeth, ensuring a seamless and natural appearance.

During the Procedure:

1. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the affected tooth and the surrounding tissues. This ensures that the patient does not feel any pain or discomfort during the procedure. Some patients may also choose sedation for relaxation if they experience dental anxiety.
2. Tooth Preparation: The dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any damaged or decayed portions and reshaping it to create space for the crown. The goal is to ensure a secure fit for the crown.
3. Impression Taking: After tooth preparation, an impression (mold) of the prepared tooth is taken. This impression is used to create a custom crown that precisely matches the size and shape of the tooth. Digital impressions may also be used for accuracy.
4. Temporary Crown (if applicable): If the permanent crown is not immediately available, a temporary crown is placed to protect the prepared tooth while the permanent crown is being fabricated in the dental laboratory. Temporary crowns are typically made from acrylic and are not as durable as permanent ones.

After the Procedure:

1. Post-Procedure Sensation: As the local anesthesia wears off, patients may experience some temporary numbness in the treated area. This numbness gradually subsides over the next few hours.
2. Sensitivity: It is common to experience mild sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages in the days following the procedure. This sensitivity is typically temporary and can be managed with over-the-counter desensitizing toothpaste or as recommended by the dentist.
3. Oral Hygiene: Patients should continue to maintain good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing and flossing. Proper oral hygiene is essential for preventing future decay and gum disease.
4. Dietary Restrictions: To minimize post-procedure sensitivity, patients may be advised to avoid very hot or cold foods and beverages for a short period. It's also a good idea to avoid excessively hard or sticky foods.
5. Temporary Crown Care: If a temporary crown was placed, patients should be gentle when brushing and flossing around it and avoid using it as a primary chewing surface. The temporary crown is designed to be a temporary solution until the permanent crown is ready.
6. Follow-Up Appointments: Patients should attend any scheduled follow-up appointments with the dentist to ensure that the permanent crown is functioning correctly and to address any concerns.
7. Long-Term Maintenance: Dental crowns are durable and can last for many years with proper care. Patients should continue to attend regular dental check-ups and cleanings to maintain their oral health and monitor the condition of the crown.
8. Communication with the Dentist: Patients should promptly report any unusual symptoms, discomfort, or issues with the crown to their dentist. Open communication with the dentist is crucial for ensuring the long-term success of the restoration.

Q1. What is a dental crown?

• A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers and encases a damaged or weakened tooth. It restores the tooth's strength, function, and aesthetics.

Q2. Why might I need a dental crown?

• Dental crowns are recommended for various reasons, including extensive tooth decay, fractured or cracked teeth, large fillings, root canal-treated teeth, cosmetic enhancements, and support for dental bridges or implants.

Q3. What materials are dental crowns made of?

• Dental crowns can be crafted from different materials, including ceramics, porcelain, metal alloys (such as gold or silver), and porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM). The choice of material depends on factors like strength, aesthetics, and location in the mouth. At KYT Dental Services, we exclusively use Zirconia crowns, unless for esthetic reasons, we will use materials such as lithium disilicate.

Q4. How long does a dental crown procedure take?

• The dental crown procedure typically requires two appointments. The first visit involves tooth preparation and impression taking, while the second visit is for the placement of the permanent crown. The entire process may span several weeks.

Q5. Is the dental crown procedure painful?

• During the procedure, local anesthesia is administered to numb the tooth and surrounding tissues, ensuring that patients do not experience pain. Some post-procedure sensitivity is common and can be managed with over-the-counter products.

Q6. How long do dental crowns last?

• The lifespan of a dental crown depends on factors like the material used, oral hygiene practices, and the patient's overall oral health. With proper care, dental crowns can last for many years, often exceeding a decade.

Q7. Can a dental crown be repaired if damaged?

• Depending on the extent of damage, a dental crown can often be repaired or replaced by a dentist. The approach will be determined based on the specific situation.

Q8. Are dental crowns covered by dental insurance?

• Dental insurance coverage for crowns can vary among plans. Patients are advised to check with their insurance provider to understand the extent of coverage.

Q9. Do dental crowns require special maintenance?

• Dental crowns require regular oral hygiene practices, including brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups, similar to natural teeth. Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for the long-term success of dental crowns.

Q10. Can I eat normally with a dental crown?

• Yes, once the crown is placed and any post-procedure sensitivity subsides, patients can eat normally. Dental crowns are designed to withstand the forces of chewing and biting.