What Is A Dental Crown?

Crowns (sometimes known as ‘caps’) are used in cosmetic and general dentistry to repair teeth that have been damaged in some way-the tooth may have cracked, broken down or need a (new) filling. Your dentist may choose to repair the affected tooth by filing it down and fitting a crown over it to protect it from further damage and also aim to restore it so you can eat ,chew and generally use the function of your tooth again. Fitting a crown not only aims to protect the tooth from further damage or decay, it may also serve the purpose of addressing the cosmetic appearance of a broken down or cracked tooth.

Crowns come in a range and choice of materials such as porcelain, ceramic, gold or metal . Porcelain or ceramic crowns are often used in cosmetic dentistry as not only do they restore function and protect the tooth, they also have good aesthetics allowing the repaired tooth to blend into your other teeth achieving a natural looking repair to create an attractive smile.

Metal crowns have traditionally been used for restorative purposes over the years as they are strong , durable and allow the teeth to be mended satisfactorily whilst not affecting tooth structure or adjacent teeth. However, from a cosmetic viewpoint, not everyone wants to show ‘metal’ in their teeth when they smile, eat or talk and for this reason, they have declined in popularity as people want solutions that offer acceptable aesthetics alongside good functionality.The prices of your crowns will vary depending on all these factors: the materials used, the amount of work required to restore the tooth and the cosmetic considerations balanced with good function.

If you are unsure where to start with your dental treatment, ask for recommendations, read reviews and do some reasearch.This will help you find a good dentist to discuss your various options, the pros and cons of your individual treatment case and come up with a solution that’s best for you.