Dental Crown

Benefits of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns offer several advantages for patients dealing with dental issues. Crowns can:

• Improve the appearance of damaged or decayed teeth and boost the patient’s confidence
• Restore chewing and speaking function, improving the patient’s quality of life
• Protect the remaining tooth structure from further damage and infection
• Support proper alignment of the bite and prevent neighboring teeth from shifting

The Principle of a Dental Crown

The concept behind a dental crown is to create a durable covering that protects a damaged tooth while restoring its function and aesthetics. The crown is designed to blend naturally with the surrounding teeth, including their color and shape.

How Is a Dental Crown Prepared?

Dental crowns require several visits to the dentist to be properly prepared and placed.

Here is a detailed breakdown of the steps involved:

1. Consultation

• Diagnostic Tests: Before starting the process, several diagnostic tests, including X-rays, may be required to assess the extent of the damage.
• Discussion of Options: The dentist will discuss available options with the patient and recommend the most suitable type of crown.

2. Tooth Preparation

• Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is usually administered to ensure a pain-free procedure.
• Removal of Damaged Tissue: The dentist removes the affected part of the tooth, including decay or any old fillings.
• Tooth Shaping: The tooth is shaped and reduced to properly support the crown. This includes removing part of the enamel.

3. Impression Taking

• Creating the Impression: After preparing the tooth, a precise impression of the tooth and surrounding teeth is taken. This impression is sent to a dental lab where the crown is custom-made.
• Color Matching: The dentist and patient select the crown’s color to ensure it blends naturally with the patient’s existing teeth.

4. Temporary Crown

• Placement of Temporary Crown: A temporary crown is placed on the prepared tooth to protect it while the permanent crown is being made.
• Care Instructions: The patient is instructed on how to care for the temporary crown to avoid any complications.

5. Follow-Up Visits

• Regular Check-Ups: While waiting for the permanent crown, a few follow-up visits may be needed to monitor the tooth and adjust the temporary crown if necessary.

Types and Materials of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns can be made from a variety of materials, each with its own specific properties and advantages. Below are the most common types and materials used for dental crowns:

Metal Crowns

• Gold Crowns: Made from gold alloys, these crowns offer high durability and wear resistance. However, their distinct gold color may be aesthetically undesirable for some patients.
• Base Metal Alloys: In addition to gold, other metal alloys can be used. These are corrosion-resistant and provide strong, long-lasting protection for the tooth.

Porcelain Crowns

• All-Porcelain Crowns: Made from ceramic materials that closely mimic the natural look of teeth. They provide excellent aesthetic results but may be less durable than metal crowns.
• Zirconia Crowns: Zirconia is a modern material that combines the aesthetic appeal of porcelain with greater strength and durability.

Combination Crowns

• Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns: These crowns combine a metal base with a porcelain exterior, offering a good balance between appearance and function.
• Porcelain-Fused-to-Zirconia Crowns: These provide outstanding aesthetics with high strength and durability, thanks to the combination of zirconia and porcelain.

Special Types of Crowns

• Pediatric Crowns: Special crowns designed for children, intended to protect developing teeth.
• Temporary Crowns: Used during the period between tooth preparation and the placement of the permanent crown. These are usually made from less durable materials.

Choosing the Right Material

When selecting the material for a dental crown, several factors should be taken into consideration, including:

• Crown Location: Front teeth typically require more aesthetically pleasing materials, while back teeth benefit from more durable options.
• Personal Preferences: Some patients may have individual preferences due to allergies or aesthetic considerations.
• Budget: Different materials come with varying costs, which may influence the patient’s choice.

Given the range of available options, it’s important to have a detailed discussion with your dentist to choose the material that best fits your needs and individual situation.

Lifespan of Dental Crowns

The lifespan of a dental crown typically ranges from 5 to 15 years, depending on the crown material and the patient's level of oral hygiene. Regular dental visits and proper oral care can significantly extend the longevity of a crown.

Care and Maintenance

To ensure the long life of a crown, good oral hygiene is essential, including regular brushing and flossing. It is also recommended to avoid hard and sticky foods that may damage the crown.

Proper care includes:

• Daily Cleaning: Use a toothbrush and dental floss to remove plaque and food debris.
• Regular Check-Ups: Visit your dentist regularly to monitor the condition of your crowns and make adjustments if necessary.

Cost of Dental Crowns

The cost of dental crowns can vary significantly depending on the region, the dental clinic, and the material used. Prices generally range from a few thousand to tens of thousands of CZK per crown.

Dental crowns are an effective solution for a variety of dental issues—whether functional or aesthetic. Proper care and regular dental check-ups help ensure that your crowns remain in great condition for years to come. If you're interested in dental crowns, feel free to contact us.