Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are prosthetic devices that cover or "crown" a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Made from durable materials such as porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of these, dental crowns are used to protect a tooth that has undergone significant decay, has been fractured, or has had a root canal treatment. They are also used to improve the appearance of discolored or misshapen teeth.

The importance of dental crowns lies in their ability to restore the full function of a tooth, allowing it to withstand normal biting and chewing forces while preventing further damage. Additionally, crowns help maintain the alignment of surrounding teeth and prevent complications associated with untreated dental issues, thereby supporting long-term oral health and preserving the integrity of the dental arch.

Types of Dental Crowns  

Porcelain Crowns  

These crowns are known for their natural appearance, making them ideal for front teeth where aesthetics is a primary concern. Porcelain crowns closely mimic the translucency and color of natural teeth, blending in seamlessly with surrounding teeth.

Benefits:  

• Mimic the natural appearance of teeth for a seamless look

• Highly aesthetic, ideal for front teeth 

• Natural color and translucency

Ceramic Crowns  

Ceramic crowns are similar to porcelain crowns in terms of aesthetics but are typically more durable. They are often used for front and back teeth given their ability to balance strength and appearance. Contact us today to learn more. 

Benefits:  

• Durable and resistant to wear

• Offer a natural appearance suitable for both front and back teeth

• Biocompatible, minimizing the risk of allergic reactions 

Metal Crowns  

Metal crowns, made from alloys such as gold, platinum, or other metals, are extremely durable and resistant to wear. They are often used for back teeth, where strength is more critical than appearance. Metal crowns can withstand significant chewing forces, making them a practical choice for molars.

Benefits:  

• Extremely strong and durable, ideal for molars

• Highly resistant to wear and tear, perfect for high-pressure areas

• Less likely to chip or crack compared to other materials

Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns  

This type of crown combines the strength of metal with the natural appearance of porcelain. The metal base provides durability, while the porcelain overlay offers a natural-looking finish. These crowns are versatile and can be used for front and back teeth.

Benefits:  

• Combine the strength of metal with the aesthetic appeal of porcelain 

• Suitable for both front and back teeth, providing versatility 

• Offer durability while mimicking the appearance of natural teeth

Zirconia Crowns  

Zirconia crowns are known for their exceptional strength and durability. Made from a type of ceramic called zirconium dioxide, they are highly resistant to chipping and cracking. They offer a natural appearance and can be used on anterior and posterior teeth. 

Benefits:  

• Exceptional strength and durability make them long-lasting

• Highly resistant to chipping and cracking

• Provide a natural appearance, suitable for both anterior and posterior teeth 

When Are Dental Crowns Needed?  

Extensive Tooth Decay  

A dental crown becomes essential when a tooth experiences significant decay that extends beyond the capability of a standard filling. Decay that affects a large portion of the tooth compromises its structural integrity, making it vulnerable to further damage. A crown provides a protective cover that restores the tooth's strength and function.

The process begins with our dentist in Garland, TX, removing the decayed tissue and reshaping the tooth to fit the crown. This approach ensures that the tooth remains functional and prevents additional decay or deterioration, preserving the tooth's longevity and overall health.

Post-Root Canal Therapy  

Teeth undergoing root canal therapy often require a dental crown to ensure longevity. A root canal procedure involves removing the infected or damaged pulp from inside the tooth, which can leave the tooth brittle and prone to fractures.

Since the tooth structure is compromised, a crown is placed over the tooth to reinforce it and restore its ability to withstand normal biting and chewing forces. The crown acts as a protective barrier, preventing further damage and helping to maintain the tooth's functionality for years to come.

Fractured or Broken Teeth  

Teeth that are fractured or broken due to trauma, accidents, or severe wear and tear can benefit significantly from dental crowns. A crown covers the entire visible portion of the damaged tooth, restoring its shape and function.

The procedure involves first assessing the extent of the damage and then preparing the tooth by removing any fragments and reshaping it to accommodate the crown. This restoration enhances the tooth's appearance and ensures that it can handle normal daily functions such as chewing and speaking without discomfort or additional risk of damage.

Cosmetic Enhancements  

Dental crowns in Garland, TX, are also employed to improve the aesthetic appearance of teeth that are discolored, misshapen, or otherwise unattractive. Our dentist can custom-design crowns to match the color, size, and shape of the surrounding natural teeth, providing a seamless and natural-looking result. This application is particularly beneficial for teeth prominently visible when smiling or speaking.

By covering imperfections and enhancing the smile's overall appearance, crowns contribute to increased self-confidence and a more pleasing smile.

Supporting Dental Implants  

When a dental implant is placed to replace a missing tooth, a crown is used to complete the restoration. The implant serves as a replacement root, which is then topped with a crown to mimic the appearance and function of a natural tooth.

The crown is custom-made to match the surrounding teeth in color and shape, ensuring a natural and aesthetically pleasing result. This combination of implant and crown effectively restores the missing tooth's function and appearance, contributing to a balanced and functional bite.

Dental crowns are vital to restorative dentistry, offering protection, functionality, and aesthetic improvement for damaged teeth. Visit Musso Family Dentistry at 513 W. Centerville Rd, Garland, TX 75041, or call (972) 840-8477 to learn more about how dental crowns can improve oral health and restore confidence.