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Dental crowns are an effective solution in both cosmetic and restorative dentistry. But are they permanent? The answer may surprise you.
In this blog, you’ll discover what dental crowns are, why they’re used, the different types available, their benefits, potential drawbacks, and the factors that affect their lifespan.
Dental crowns are not a permanent solution, but they can last for many years with proper care and maintenance. Though they may eventually need to be replaced, crowns are a reliable option for long-term tooth restoration and protection.
What Are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns, often referred to as “tooth-shaped caps,” are custom-made restorations placed over a tooth. They restore your tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance, acting as a permanent restoration to protect a weak tooth or restore a broken one.
Crowns play an important role in various dental procedures, such as root canal therapy and dental bridges, where they provide stability and support.
Types of Dental Crowns
There are several types of crowns, each designed to meet your specific needs and preferences.
Metal Crowns
Metal crowns are highly effective restorative options for their strength and durability, which makes them an ideal option for molars that need to withstand heavy chewing. They are often made from materials like stainless steel and various metal alloys.
Although they are long-lasting and resistant to wear, their metallic appearance makes them less desirable for visible front teeth. These crowns are often used as temporary crowns, especially in children, due to their strength and ease of placement.
Porcelain Crowns
Porcelain crowns are a popular option for restoring front teeth because of their natural appearance. Porcelain can be matched to the color of your natural teeth, providing a seamless blend with the rest of your smile.
Porcelain crowns can be fused with metal (PFM), combining the strength of metal with the aesthetic appeal of porcelain, making them suitable for both front and back teeth.
Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia crowns give you the perfect blend of strength and aesthetics. Made from a durable ceramic material, these crowns resist chipping and cracking, ensuring long-lasting protection. With their natural appearance they offer you both durability and a realistic look for your smile.
Same-Day Crowns
Same-day crowns are a convenient option for those looking to restore their teeth quickly. Using advanced digital technology, these crowns can be designed, created, and placed in a single dental visit.
Made from ceramic, same-day crowns eliminate the need for temporary crowns and reduce the number of dental visits required. Though convenient, they may not always offer the same level of customization as traditional crowns made in a dental lab.
Benefits of Dental Crowns
Crowns offer numerous advantages that make them a preferred choice for your dental restorations.
- Durability: Crowns can last many years with proper care, providing you with long-term solutions.
- Natural appearance: Especially with ceramic and porcelain crowns, they blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
- Protection: Crowns protect your decayed teeth and reduce your risk of infection.
Potential Disadvantages
There are some considerations to be aware of:
- Initial cost: Crowns can be more expensive than other dental restorations.
- Allergic reactions: Some patients may have allergies to metals used in metal crowns.
- Wear: Over time, crowns may wear down, particularly if exposed to high amounts of pressure from grinding or chewing sticky foods.
- Risk of decay: If the underlying tooth is not properly cared for, decay may occur beneath the crown, leading to potential complications.
Factors Affecting the Lifespan of Dental Crowns
How long your dental crown lasts depends on several factors, including the type of crown, your oral hygiene practices, and the materials used.
- Type of crown: Metal crowns tend to last the longest, while resin crowns may wear down more quickly.
- Oral hygiene: Proper care, including daily brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings, is important for maintaining your crown.
- Diet: Avoid sticky foods and maintain a balanced diet to extend the life of your crown.
- Dental visits: Regular dental appointments allow your dentist to monitor your crown’s condition and overall oral health.
Long-Term Expectations
Patients can expect crowns to last between 5 to 15 years or more with proper maintenance. Regular professional cleanings and adherence to a tailored treatment plan significantly contribute to the success of dental crowns.
The Best Dental Crowns in Buffalo Grove, IL
Though dental crowns are not permanent, they can serve you well for many years with proper care. By choosing the right type of crown and maintaining good oral hygiene, you can enjoy the benefits of a strong, natural-looking smile for a decade or more.
At Morris Dental Solutions we offer a variety of dental crowns to restore your teeth and improve your smile. Our experienced dentists Dr. Gary Morris, Dr. Shanna Spina, and Dr. David S. Rosenbaum, will work with you to determine the best treatment for your specific needs.
If you are searching for ‘dental crowns in Buffalo Grove, IL’ or a ‘dentist near me’ we can help! Call (847) 215-1511 to book an appointment or complete the online inquiry form.
