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CrownsDental crowns (also sometimes referred to as "caps") are restorations
that completely cover the tooth on which they are placed. Dr. Hopgood
advises crowns when rebuilding broken, fractured, or decayed teeth as
a way to strengthen the tooth, and as a last resort in which the cosmetic
appearance of a tooth can be improved. Since crowns cover the entire tooth, any crown that has a porcelain surface can be used as a way to improve the cosmetic appearance of a tooth. Possibly you have heard it said (especially in past decades) that such-and-such movie star has had their teeth "capped" (the term "cap" used here is equivalent to the term "dental crown"). This simply means that the person has obtained their "Hollywood smile" by having dental crowns placed. In general, crowns should not be used as a means to improve the appearance of a tooth if there is any other dental treatment that could equally and satisfactorily achieve the same result. Dr. Hopgood must prepare the tooth and trim a significant portion of a tooth away when a crown is made. If a more conservative dental procedure could equally well improve the tooth's appearance, such as a porcelain veneer, dental bonding, or even just teeth whitening, then it is usually best to consider the least destructive treatment option first. Since a dental crown cemented into place essentially becomes the new outer surface of the tooth, it is easy to imagine how the placement of a crown can restore a tooth to its original shape. Dental crowns are often made for teeth that have worn excessively, have broken, or else have had large portions destroyed by tooth decay. Conceivably the placement of a dental filling could, as an alternative, be used as a means to restore a tooth's shape. Dental crowns, however, offer a big advantage to your dentist over dental fillings by way of the fact that they are fabricated "away from your mouth". By this we simply mean that dental crowns are fabricated in a dental laboratory. Dental fillings, in comparison, are created "in your mouth" by way of your dentist placing the filling material directly upon your tooth.
What is the best way to care for my crown(s)?Crowns normally last between five and eight years. Many last much longer if your homecare is diligent. Teeth grinding, chewing ice, eating taffy and/or gum will significantly lower the life of your crown. Cleaning between your teeth is vital with crowns, bridges, and veneers. Floss is an important tool to remove plaque from the crown area where the gum meets the tooth. Plaque left in that area will cause decay and could eventually lead to gum disease. Crowns vs. VeneersBecause crowns require more tooth structure removal, they cover more of the tooth than veneers. Crowns are stationary and are normally used for teeth that have sustained significant loss of structure or to replace missing teeth. Advanced Dental Concepts
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When
a dental crown is made the dental laboratory technician can visualize
and examine all aspects of your bite and jaw movements, from a variety
of angles, and sculpt your dental crown so it has the perfect anatomy.
In some cases this anatomy will be even more ideal than your tooth's original
shape. When placing a dental filling a dentist has less control over the
final outcome of the shape of your tooth because it is often difficult
for them to visualize, evaluate, and access the tooth on which they are
working.