Getting a crown is a very common dental-restoration procedure that is used to completely cover a damaged tooth. Crowns are a deeper, more aggressive form of restoration when compared with the more traditional on-lays. Crowns are one of the most effective ways of covering decayed or degraded teeth.

The main difference between a crown and an on-lay is that a crown typically covers the entire tooth along the length and not just the top. It covers the entire chewing area, whereas with on-lays, only the top part of the tooth is covered. Also, with a crown, a greater part of the tooth is removed to make the crown fit.

Porcelain on-laying is done on the top of the tooth, which has grown weak and is decaying. Crowns are used when the decaying has increased to an extent where traditional on-lays prove insufficient. This happens when the decay threatens the walls of the tooth; since on-lays are laid only on top, crowns are introduced to provide structural integrity.

Advantages of Getting Crowns

There are several advantages of getting crowns over other treatments. Some of the major benefits are mentioned below:

  • With crowns, there is significantly lower risk of any kind of nerve trauma. This ensures that a root canal on the tooth is not needed.
  • Crowns are designed according to the shape of the tooth and thus are better able to guard its natural shape and structure.
  • Crowns ensure that there is less of a chance of recurrent decay, especially along the margins. This is because the margins of a crown are near the gum line, whereas the margins of an on-lay are higher and on more stable locations.
  • The use of crowns improves the health and natural tooth structure, which is impossible with other kinds of dental procedures.

Uses of Dental Crowns

Here are some of the various reasons why people choose to get a crown:

  • To protect a weak tooth from decay or damage. Additionally, people get a crown for holding together cracked teeth.
  • To restore severely degraded teeth or teeth that have been broken down completely
  • To protect teeth with large fillings where not enough original tooth material is present for strength and support
  • To hold dental bridges in place
  • To cover up discolored or misshapen teeth
  • To make cosmetic adjustments to teeth for a better appearance

There are several varieties of crowns that are available. Some of the common materials include ceramic, porcelain fused to metal, zirconium, and gold. There are pros and cons of each material and type of crown, so Dr. Miller should be consulted before deciding upon a crown.

The process takes two separate visits to Dr. Miller. The first appointment involves a physical examination and the filling of tooth in order to get it structurally ready for the crown. An image of the entire structure is taken for the crown to be modeled. The second visit is when Dr. Miller actually fits the crown and ensures proper alignment.

Make an Appointment

To make an appointment for a consultation at our office, contact us today. Dr. Dan Miller is an experienced and trusted cosmetic dentist who will be happy to help.