Dental crowns are used to cover damaged teeth. Teeth may incur damage for a number of reasons, such as dental decay or trauma.

Each crown is shaped like the natural crown of a tooth. However, the device is hollow. Thus, it can be placed over the natural tooth like a cap, restoring the shape and functionality of the tooth.

Here is some information about dental crowns and the materials used to make them.

Why Do Dentists Typically Prescribe a Crown?

There are multiple reasons why your dentist could prescribe a dental crown. Here are a few of them:

Structural support. A crown can be used to protect a tooth whose structure is compromised. The crown can prevent the tooth from further weakening or even breaking apart.

Restoration of a chipped tooth. If a portion of a tooth is broken or chipped, a crown can restore the full appearance and functionality of the tooth while protecting it from infection.

Support after the placement of a large filling. When a dentist installs a large filling, there may be little of the natural tooth material remaining. The crown supports the filled tooth.

Stabilization of a fixed bridge. A dental bridge includes false replacement teeth. Additionally, it includes a dental crown on each end of the device. The crowns are used to cover the abutment teeth to connect the bridge to the mouth.

Natural crown replacement after a dental implant installation. A dental implant replaces the root of a lost tooth. However, a dental crown is used to cover the dental implant, replacing the natural crown of the missing tooth.

Protection after a root canal procedure. During a root canal procedure, the dentist removes the pulp of the tooth and installs a filling in its place. Once the tooth has been properly filled, a dental crown is applied to cover and protect the treated tooth.

What materials are used to make a dental crown?

A dental crown can be made from a variety of materials. They include:

Resin. Resin can be used to produce a tooth-colored crown that is relatively inexpensive.

Porcelain-over-metal. A porcelain-over-metal crown includes a metal cap that has been covered by porcelain. Due to the similarity between the look of porcelain and that of natural tooth enamel, a porcelain-over-metal crown offers a natural-looking restoration.

Metal. Metal crowns are extremely long-lasting. However, they are not always preferred because their coloring does not match that of natural tooth material. Metals that are frequently used to make crowns include chromium, gold, and nickel.

To learn more about dental crowns, schedule a consultation with a dentist in your local area.