What Is a Dental Crown? Everything You Need to Know – Hosfinder Clinic
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a cap shaped like a tooth. Dentists use crowns to repair weak, broken, or decayed teeth.
It covers the entire tooth like a snug cap, and the dentist must file down a small portion of enamel for proper fit.
Crowns can be made from materials like resin, metal, or porcelain by dental technicians.
When Do You Need a Dental Crown?
Crowns are used for various reasons. You may need a crown to:
- Strengthen a weak tooth.
- Support and protect a cracked tooth.
- Restore a worn or broken tooth.
- Anchor a dental bridge.
- Cover a severely stained or discolored tooth.
- Cap a tooth after root canal treatment.
- Cover a dental implant.
Types of Dental Crowns
There are different crown types depending on your oral health needs and preferences.
Metal Crowns
Made from gold, nickel, chromium, or palladium, these crowns are highly durable and require minimal enamel removal. Best for molars due to their metallic appearance.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
Combine metal strength with porcelain’s natural look. However, porcelain may wear down, exposing the metal over time.
Pressed Ceramic Crowns
These have a strong ceramic core with layered porcelain. They closely mimic natural teeth but may wear over time.
All-Ceramic or Porcelain Crowns
Offer the most natural appearance. Often made of zirconia, these crowns are suitable for people with metal allergies.
Same-Day Crowns (CAD/CAM Crowns)
Created using digital scans and milling machines in one visit. Not suitable for all patients.
All-Resin Crowns
More affordable but less durable. Commonly used as temporary crowns, lasting around 3–5 years.
Crown Procedure
Usually completed in two appointments:
First Visit:
- Tooth shaping and preparation.
- Taking impressions (physical or digital).
- Placing a temporary crown.
Second Visit:
- Removing the temporary crown.
- Checking the permanent crown’s fit and color.
- Cementing it permanently.
Benefits and Risks
Benefits:
- Prolongs life of damaged teeth.
- Enhances chewing and appearance.
- Can last 5–15 years with proper care.
Risks:
- Enamel must be removed.
- Temporary sensitivity may occur.
- Potential for fracture or loosening.
- Improper placement can lead to decay.
- Rare allergic reactions.
- Costly.
Recovery
Most return to daily activities right after the procedure. Minor sensitivity or gum discomfort may last a few days.
Foods to Avoid
Avoid these with temporary or permanent crowns:
- Ice
- Hard nuts
- Popcorn
- Sticky candies
Crown Lifespan and Care
Crowns may last up to 30 years with good care:
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily.
- Use antibacterial mouthwash.
- Avoid hard or sticky foods.
- Wear a night guard if grinding teeth.
- Visit the dentist regularly.
Is It Painful?
Crowns shouldn’t cause pain. Some sensitivity is normal. Severe discomfort should be evaluated by a dentist.
Veneers vs. Crowns
Veneers cover the front of teeth; crowns cover the whole tooth.
- Veneers are cosmetic.
- Crowns are restorative (and cosmetic).
Alternatives to Crowns
- Inlays/onlays
- Veneers
- Extraction and dental implants for severe damage
Is “Cap” the Same as “Crown”?
Yes. Some people refer to crowns as "caps" because they cover the tooth.
