What is a Dental Crown?

A tooth can get damaged or cracked due to an accident or decayed due to an infection. A dental crown is used to cover or to create a cap on a damaged tooth. By doing so the damaged tooth is strengthened and it's original look and function is restored. The dental crown is permanently fixed in place and will fully encase the damaged tooth.

What are the different types of Dental Crowns?

Your dentist will discuss with you and explain the different types of dental crowns available. Once you have made a choice, your dentist will begin your treatment. You can choose between the following types of dental crowns:

• Zirconia Dental Crown
• Full Ceramic Dental Crown
• Ceramic Facing Dental Crown
• Full Metal Dental Crown

These dental crowns are made of different materials such as Porcelain and Zirconia. The color of the dental crown can be matched to the color of your natural teeth, so when fixed there is no visible difference in color and the dental crown will blend in with your natural teeth.

Other materials include metal alloys which are generally stronger than porcelain and may be recommended for back teeth. Porcelain bonded with a metal shell maybe used because it is strong and attractive.

When will my dentist recommend a crown?

A dental crown maybe prescribed in the following circumstances:

• To replace a large filling if there isn't enough tooth remaining
• To support a tooth after a Root Canal treatment
• To prevent a weak tooth from fracturing
• To restore a broken tooth
• To cover a dental implant
• To cover a tooth that has discolored
• To cover a tooth that is misshapen

What is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is used in a case where there is a missing tooth. The dental bridge will typically consist of 2 crowns on either side of the missing tooth. The 2 crowns are fixed to a synthetic tooth in the middle. The combination of these "3 teeth" is called a dental bridge.

The bridge is fixed using a cement to create a permanent solution for your missing tooth. The color of the bridge is matched to the color of your teeth to give you a natural look.