What is a Ceramic Crown?
Crowns are a common treatment used to restore a damaged tooth. Another common use of crowns is to cover minor cosmetic issues. Because a crown is incredibly secure, strong, and reliable, they are a popular treatment used in dentistry. Special materials are used to create a crown to ensure it fits snugly over the natural tooth. These materials used to create a crown give it the unique ability to have the appearance and function similar to a natural tooth. Below is a summary of ceramic crowns and answers to common questions associated with the treatment.
Procedure
Dentists work diligently and meticulously to ensure the crown fits securely over the tooth and closely matches the surrounding teeth. Patients must continue to be diligent in practicing good oral hygiene to preserve their crowns and maintain good oral health following treatment. Crowns are a minimally invasive treatment that offers excellent results.
Materials
Various materials can be used in the fabrication of a crown. This includes ceramic, porcelain, resin, and metals. It is also possible to use a combination of these different materials. Ceramic crowns are often preferred due to their strength, durability, and incredibly natural appearance.
Function
When a patient has a damaged tooth, they often favor one side of the mouth or avoid chewing on or around a damaged tooth. This is often to avoid pain or trigger sensitive areas of the tooth. A crown is an effective way to avoid additional damage, prevent discomfort, and restore the function of a damaged tooth.
Natural
Ceramic crowns are unique in that they are able to achieve a natural color and appearance. In many cases, it is difficult to tell the crown apart from the natural teeth. The dental lab is able to fabricate the crown in order to achieve the desired shape, color, and translucency.
Durable
Another benefit of a ceramic crown is that they are incredibly durable. The restorations are also able to endure the extreme forces of chewing. In some cases, the crown may be used to protect a tooth with a large filling. A crown can also serve as the base of a bridge or in combination with dental implants.
Natural Tooth Protection
The crown is placed directly over the natural tooth, which preserves the natural tooth. This also protects the tooth from further damage. A damaged tooth is susceptible to the accumulation of plaque and debris. This can also increase the tooth’s exposure to harmful bacteria and decay over time.
Attractive
Because a ceramic crown is able to achieve a natural appearance, it is a great solution for teeth in the front of the mouth. These teeth are highly visible when smiling or speaking, making it important to use a natural and attractive restoration. A ceramic crown does not contain metal, which eliminates the risk of dark color being visible near the gum line.
Results
Prior to placing a crown, the dentist will obtain an impression of the patient’s teeth. These impressions aid in ensuring the proper fit of the crown. The crown will be created in the lab to meet the needs of the specific patient.
Creation
Ceramic crowns are typically created at a lab that is located offsite from the dental office. It is also possible for the office to have its own lab, which helps expedite the timeline for creating the restoration or complete it the same day. An on-site lab aids in reducing the number of appointments and eliminates the need for a temporary crown.
Many of our crowns are fabricated in-house utilizing optical scanning and cad-cam technology to provide final restorations at the initial appointment.
If you are considering a ceramic crown to restore your tooth, reach out to the office today. The team can meet with you to determine if a ceramic crown will meet your unique needs. The team can answer any questions regarding the ceramic crown treatment process.