If you have a tooth that is broken, decayed, or otherwise damaged, you may be wondering what your cosmetic dentistry options are. If you have a visible tooth that is not broken but has damage to it, a dental crown will restore its shape and appearance as well as protect the underlying tooth.
A dental crown also protects the tooth underneath from further damage and prevents the crack or decay from getting worse. You may have heard of dental bridges as another possible option for repairing broken teeth. They are both cosmetic solutions where an artificial structure is placed over (or under) your natural teeth to give the appearance of having a natural tooth once again. But there are pros and cons to each option, so let’s take a look at what you need to know about cosmetic dental crowns vs. dental bridges—and which one might be best for you!
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is an artificial tooth covering that is typically used to strengthen and repair a tooth that is broken, decayed, or has another issue that prevents it from living up to its full potential. Cosmetic dental crowns are meant to restore the shape and appearance of your teeth and make you feel more confident about your smile!
A crown can also be used to cover a tooth that has received a root canal treatment. While the tooth is decontaminated, it’s not strong enough to survive normal chewing. A dental crown will protect the tooth and last until it’s strong enough to handle normal use again. A dental crown is also called a “cap” because it’s basically a cap that covers your tooth. It’s a moldable “cap” that can be customized to fit your tooth precisely and match the colour and shape of your other teeth.
How Do Cosmetic Dental Crowns Work?
The crown is usually made of porcelain fused to a metal alloy base. A tooth is prepared to receive a crown by thoroughly cleaning out the decay and softening the remaining tooth structure to make room for the new covering.
Once the tooth is ready, the dentist takes an impression of the area so that a dental lab can create a custom crown to fit the specific tooth. The crown will be cemented onto the prepared tooth and function like a natural tooth would, with the help of a toothbrush and floss. A crown can last many years, but it’s important to take care of it to ensure it lasts as long as possible. You’ll want to brush and floss around the crown as you would the teeth next to the crown.
Why Are Cosmetic Dental Crowns Important?
Cosmetic dental crowns are important for a number of reasons. First, they can protect an underlying tooth from further damage. Broken or decayed teeth are at risk of getting worse if they aren’t treated. Cosmetic crowns prevent damage from spreading and stop the problem from getting worse. Crowns are also great for restoring the appearance of a tooth. If a tooth has decayed to the point where it’s unsightly, the crown can be made out of a material that will blend in with the rest of your teeth and make it appear as if nothing ever happened! Crowns are usually made of porcelain or some other ceramic-like material that is similar in appearance to natural teeth.
What Are the Advantages of Having a Dental Crown?
Cosmetic dental crowns are typically used to repair teeth that are decayed or broken. When used to cover a decayed tooth, a crown can actually help prevent future damage by protecting the tooth from further decay. Dental crowns can also be used to cover a tooth that has been treated with a root canal. After a root canal, a tooth is not as strong as it once was and is at risk of breaking. Crowns are permanently attached to the tooth and are much stronger than the tooth itself. When a tooth has received a root canal and is not strong enough to handle normal chewing, a dental crown can restore its strength and help it survive the long healing process. Crowns are also good for covering teeth that have received a dental implant.
When Should You Get a Dental Crown Instead of a Dental Bridge?
There are pros and cons to both cosmetic dental bridge and cosmetic dental crowns options. Crowns are restorative solutions for teeth that are severely decayed and in need of a major repair. Dental bridges, on the other hand, are typically better suited for teeth that have less severe damage. If you have a decayed tooth and a dental bridge would be visible to others, crowns are the better option. Crowns are a better option than dental bridges if your teeth next to the damaged tooth have significant damage or decay as well. Dental crowns can be placed on the tooth itself, whereas dental bridges are placed on the gums on either side of the damaged tooth. If you have a damaged tooth and your gums are in good shape and healthy, dental crowns can be a more suitable solution.
Is There a Difference Between Temporarily and Permanently Fixed Dental Crowns?
Temporarily fixed cosmetic dental crowns are cemented to the tooth and will eventually fall off. They are used for short-term protection or for treating an infection. Permanently fixed dental crowns are cemented to the tooth and will not fall off. They are used for long-term protection and repair. You may be wondering what the difference is between a crown and a filling. Crowns are used to repair teeth that are broken, decayed, or that have received a root canal treatment. Fillings are used to repair decayed teeth that are still sound and sturdy.
Which Option is Best for You?
Depending on the degree of damage to your teeth, you may need more than one cosmetic dental solution. A dental bridge is a popular cosmetic solution for a single severely decayed tooth and is usually recommended when you have a tooth that is decayed all the way through. Dental bridges are bonded to the surrounding teeth and are usually better suited for teeth with mild damage. A dental crown is usually recommended if you have a decayed tooth that is only partially decayed, or if you have several teeth that have minor damage. If you have broken teeth, some teeth that are decayed and others that are severely damaged, or if you have received a root canal treatment, you may require multiple cosmetic dental treatments. An experienced cosmetic dentist will be able to determine what kind of cosmetic dental treatment you need, and help you achieve the smile you want!
