What Is a Crown for a Tooth?

A crown for a tooth is not unlike a crown for a king. A crown is a tooth-shaped cover, fitted for a damaged tooth, and oftentimes, can be made of metal. And depending on the type of crown chosen, it can cost a small fortune! But most people would agree that a crown for a tooth is worth every cent.

Significance

Most of us take our teeth for granted, until something goes wrong. So, when a tooth is badly chipped or broken, or a molar shows signs of decay damage, we know the tooth must be repaired. A crown for a tooth is the answer to these more serious problems. A crown can not only restore the look of a smile, it can also repair the health of your mouth.

Function

A crown does not replace a tooth; it functions as the damaged tooth. So, the damaged tooth must be prepared to wear the crown. The tooth will be filed down to provide a good fit. An impression of the prepared tooth will be made and this impression, sent to a lab, will become the crown.

Types

There are several, different kinds of crowns, and which type crown used can depend on individual preferences. There is also a difference between a temporary crown and a permanent crown. Temporary crowns can be made in the dentist's office and allows the patient to leave the office with a cover on the damaged tooth. The permanent crown, constructed by a lab technician, will be placed on the tooth on a return visit.

Features

These are the variety of crown materials and how they are used:

1. Metal: Metal crowns (made of gold alloys, for example) can withstand chewing and biting forces and are best used on back molars where the metal is not visible. Metal crowns usually last longest, and rarely chip or break.
2. Porcelain-fused-to-metal: The porcelain can be matched to your natural tooth color, so these crowns will look like a tooth. Sometimes, there will be a black line above the tooth where the metal shows through. But PFM crowns still make a good choice for back teeth and front teeth.
3. All-resin crowns (which also look natural) are less expensive. However, they are not as durable as PFM crowns.
4. All-ceramic or all-porcelain crowns: These crowns will look most like natural teeth. For people with metal allergies, they may be a good option. They are particularly well-suited for front teeth. They are, however, not as strong as PFM crowns.

Considerations

Crowns can last anywhere from several years to 25 years or longer if properly maintained, making the high cost worth the investment.

Benefits

A crown often makes it possible to keep a tooth, even a tooth that is severely damaged. Crowns can also replace spotted, chipped, or stained front teeth, providing a beautiful smile and improved self-image.