Restorative dentistry has evolved over the past decades, providing patients and dentists with innovative procedures. This popular branch of dentistry helps restore your oral form, function, and aesthetics. Porcelain crowns are one such restorative procedure offered by the Gettysburg dentist that is on par with modern technology. Porcelain crowns are a popular dental restoration option used to repair and strengthen damaged or decayed teeth. Also known as ceramic crowns, they are made from high-quality porcelain materials that closely match the appearance and durability of natural teeth.
In this article, we will explore everything about porcelain crowns and their benefits.
What are porcelain crowns?
Porcelain crowns are custom-made caps that cover the entire tooth, restoring its shape, size, and color. They are typically made from porcelain materials, such as feldspathic porcelain, zirconia porcelain, or lithium disilicate porcelain. These materials are known for their durability, aesthetic appeal, and biocompatibility.
Porcelain crowns help treat the following conditions:
- Broken or fractured teeth
- Cosmetic imperfections that negatively impact your smile
- Severely decayed teeth
- Large fillings that cannot be restored through a dental onlay
- Restoring root canal-treated teeth
- When you are allergic to metal
What are the types of porcelain crowns?
There are several types of porcelain crowns, including:
Traditional porcelain crowns: These crowns are made from feldspathic porcelain and are known for their translucency and aesthetic appeal.
Zirconia porcelain crowns: These crowns are made from zirconia porcelain and are known for their strength and durability.
Lithium disilicate porcelain crowns: These crowns are made from lithium disilicate porcelain and are known for their strength, durability, and aesthetic appeal.
What are the benefits of porcelain crowns?
Porcelain crowns are popular restorations since they offer several impressive benefits that have been discussed in detail. These aesthetic shells:
- Effectively repair and restore cavities, which is not possible through regular fillings or inlays and onlays
- Repair cracked and broken teeth
- Strengthen weakened teeth due to decay or disease
- Alter the shape of poorly rotated, or twisted teeth
- Replace missing teeth and act as permanent restorations over dental implants
- Cover severely discolored teeth
- Look natural and easily blend with your real teeth
- Are exactly matched to the affected tooth, and the remaining natural teeth
- Are customized to blend with the original shape and size of your teeth
- They are stain-resistant; thus you can enjoy your favorite food and drinks without the fear of tooth discoloration
- Porcelain crowns are made from biocompatible materials that are gentle on the surrounding tissues.
- Impart a radiant, healthy, and beautiful smile
- Successfully restore your chewing abilities, speech, and pronunciation
- They are fabricated from an extremely strong tooth-colored material
- Are durable and last up to 15 years or longer
- Prevent further damage since they completely seal the tooth
- Help reduce tooth sensitivity and minimize discomfort
- Require low maintenance through regular brushing and flossing
- You often do not experience any complications after getting porcelain crowns
- Are super affordable
What is the procedure involved in fabricating a porcelain crown?
The procedure for placing porcelain crowns is simple and may usually require 2-3 dental visits. The crown fabrication typically involves:
Tooth preparation: The tooth is prepared by removing decay or damage and shaping it to receive the crown.
Oral impression: An impression is taken of the prepared tooth and surrounding teeth.
Crown fabrication: The porcelain crown is fabricated using impression and dental laboratory techniques.
Crown placement and finishing: The porcelain crown is placed over the prepared tooth and cemented in place. It is further polished and the high points are checked for comfort.
What does the crown after-care and maintenance involve?
To ensure the longevity of porcelain crowns, it is essential to practice good oral hygiene, including:
Brushing: Brushing twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.
Flossing: Flossing once a day to remove plaque and debris.
Regular check-ups: Regular dental check-ups to monitor the condition of the crown and surrounding teeth.
Wrapping up
Porcelain crowns are a popular dental restoration option used to repair and strengthen damaged or decayed teeth. They offer numerous benefits, including aesthetic appeal, durability, strength, biocompatibility, resistance to stains, and long-lasting results. With proper care and maintenance, porcelain crowns can last for 10-20 years or more, restoring the health and appearance of your smile. If you’re considering porcelain crowns, consult with your dentist to determine if they’re the right option for you.