You probably heard many times that a smile could light up a room. But if your smile isn’t looking its best, it can make you feel self-conscious. If you’re considering dental crowns to improve your smile, you may be wondering: are they worth it?
Dental crowns have grown popular over the years – and for a good reason. They offer many benefits and can restore your teeth to their former glory. But they’re not for everyone. So, how do you know if dental crowns are suitable for you?
Here are some things to consider:
What Are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a “cap” with a shape like a tooth that your dentist puts over your damaged tooth to cover it and restore its shape and size, appearance, and strength. The crowns are often used to support a dental bridge or protect a weak tooth from breaking. They are also used to cover teeth treated with root canal therapy.
Many people may ask if they can use a dental crown for a damaged wisdom tooth. Your dentist may place a crown for your wisdom tooth if it is severely decayed or damaged, and there is strong support for the crown.
However, because wisdom teeth are at the back of your mouth and are not visible when you smile, some people may choose not to get a crown for their wisdom tooth. Instead, they may opt for removal. That’s why choosing an experienced dental clinic is important because they can advise you on the best option for your tooth, such as these wisdom teeth removal Red Deer dentists.
Types of Dental Crowns
Depending on the tooth’s location and the visible part, there are different types of dental crowns. Here are the most common types:
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crown
As the name suggests, this crown type is made by fusing porcelain with metal. It can be used for both front and back teeth. The major advantage of this crown is that it is strong and esthetically pleasing. However, the porcelain’s metal can sometimes show through, especially at the gumline.
Ceramic or Porcelain Crown
This crown type is made entirely of ceramic material, and they are best suited for front teeth. They are also matched to the color of your natural teeth.
Gold Alloy or Base Metal Alloy Crown
These crowns are made of gold alloy or other base metals. They are usually used for back teeth because they are stronger and can withstand biting and chewing forces better than other materials. The drawback of these crowns is that they are not as esthetically pleasing as ceramic or porcelain crowns.
What Are Your Goals?
If you’re considering dental crowns, it’s likely because you want to improve the appearance of your smile. And there’s nothing wrong with that. Dental crowns can give you the confidence boost you need to flash those pearly whites.
But there’s more to consider than just aesthetics. If you have a damaged, decayed, or incorrectly functioning tooth, dental crowns can help restore it. This can improve your chewing and speaking ability and make it easier to clean your mouth.
Are You a Good Candidate?
Some individuals are not good candidates for dental crowns. If you have a tooth that is cracked or chipped, you may be able to get by with a filling or bonding. And if your tooth is severely decayed, you may need a root canal before getting a dental crown.
Your dentist will evaluate your situation and determine if dental crowns are the right solution for you.
What Is the Procedure Like?
Getting dental crowns is usually a two-step process. First, your dentist will prepare your teeth by removing decay and shaping the tooth. Then, they will create a teeth impression and send it to a lab where your custom dental crown will be made.
While you wait for your dental crown, you will likely be given a temporary crown. Once your permanent crown is ready, you will return to the dentist to have it placed.
This entire process may take two to three weeks.
What Are the Risks?
As with any dental procedure, there are some risks to getting dental crowns. These include:
Allergic reaction to materials used in the crown
- The Crown comes loose or falls out
- Damage to the underlying tooth
- Nerve damage
Your dentist can tell if you are at risk for any of these complications. For example, if your wisdom tooth is the one that needs a crown, there is a higher risk of nerve damage. So, your dentist may recommend removal instead. You may visit these wisdom teeth removal Oakville experts to help you with that.
Are Dental Crowns Worth It?
Ultimately, whether or not to get dental crowns is up to you. If you’re looking for a way to improve your smile, they may be worth considering. But if you’re only interested in the aesthetic benefits, other options are available.
Dental crowns can restore a damaged or decayed tooth to its former function and beauty if you have a damaged or decayed tooth. In addition, they can give you the confidence boost you need to show off your smile.
The Bottom Line
Dental crowns are a popular way to improve the appearance of your smile. But there’s more to consider than just aesthetics. Ask your dentist about whether or not dental crowns are suitable for you.
On top of these, choose a reputable dental clinic that offers a wide range of dental services, such as wisdom teeth removal (see wisdom teeth removal Peterborough here), dental implants, orthodontics, etc.