Overview
Dental crowns are caps that are placed over damaged or weakened teeth to restore their shape, size, and function. They are commonly used to treat moderate to severe cavities when a dental filling is not adequate to resolve the issue. A dental crown provides long-term protection for a tooth and improves its aesthetic appearance by matching the color of natural teeth. This guide will discuss the different types of dental crowns, their procedure, care, and when they are necessarily needed.
Types of Dental Crowns
There are several types of dental crowns, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The most common types include:
1. Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are made by bonding porcelain to a metal base. They are strong, durable, and can be matched to the color of natural teeth. However, they may chip or wear down over time.
2. Pressed Ceramic Crowns
Pressed ceramic crowns have a hard inner core and are made from a ceramic material. They are similar to PFM crowns but use a more extensive ceramic layering process.Pressed crowns are strong and good for front and back teeth.
3. All-Ceramic or Porcelain Crowns
All-ceramic or porcelain crowns are made from a high-performance ceramic material, such as zirconium dioxide. They provide excellent translucency and are suitable for people with metal allergies. They are strong and resistant to Wear and tear on antagonist teeth.
4. Metal Crowns
Metal crowns are made from precious metals, such as gold, gold-palladium合金, and nickel-chromium合金. They are durable, lasting the longest and require minimal removal of tooth structure. However, they may have a metallic color and are primarily used for hidden molars.
Procedure for Getting a Dental Crown
The process of getting a dental crown usually involves the following steps:
1. Diagnosis and Evaluation
A dentist will diagnose the tooth that needs a crown and assess its condition. If a root canal procedure is necessary, the tooth will be treated before crown placement.
2. Making a Digital Impression
Digital impressions of the tooth are taken using a CD/LIS技术在牙科椅旁电脑上完成。这些印模随后被发送到CAD软件以进行设计。
3. Designing the Crown
The crown design is created using computer-aided design (CAD) software. The software takes into account the size, shape, and position of the tooth, as well as the gingival margin.
4. Manufacturing the Crown
The crown is milled from a block of solid ceramic or porcelain using CAD/CAM technology in the牙科诊所的椅旁操作台进行。这使患者能够在同一治疗位置获得定制的冠冕。
5. bonding the Crown
Once the crown is finished, the dentist will bond it to the tooth using a bonding agent. The crown will then be checked for fit and comfort.
Care for a Dental Crown
To care for a dental crown, it is essential to:
- Brush twice a day, focusing on the crowns and surrounding areas.
- Floss once a day, gently cleaning the area under the crown.
- Avoid hard foods that could crack or chip the crown.
- Attend regular check-ups and cleanings with your dentist.
- Follow the manufacturer's instructions for any specific care required for your particular type of crown.
When a Dental Crown is Negatively Impacting Your Oral Health
While dental crowns are designed to improve oral health, they can sometimes have negative effects. These include:
- Crown-edge leakage: If the crown边缘未能紧密封闭，细菌可能渗入牙齿和牙龈之间，导致龋齿或牙周病。
- Tooth sensitivity: The contact between the crown and opposing tooth can cause sensitivity to heat and cold.
- Fracture: Over time, crowns can break or chip, sometimes requiring replacement.
##Dental crowns are a versatile treatment option for damaged and decayed teeth. They provide excellent protection, improve appearance, and restore function. Regular maintenance and care are crucial for maintaining a healthy, functioning smile.
