Why Getting Dental Crowns Are Worth It

Did you know that damaged teeth can negatively impact your self-confidence? If you have broken teeth that need repair, dental crowns may be the solution you need to create a winning smile. The results of a study completed in 2013 by the Journal of Periodontology found a strong connection between a person’s attractiveness, friendliness, trustworthiness, and self-confidence and the use of crowns. Dentists use crowns to correct weakened, decayed, or damaged teeth. You may be wondering if it is worth getting a crown as opposed to another treatment, such as a filling.

Why dental crowns are recommended

While both can treat teeth decay, crowns offer several advantages over fillings. They completely cover the teeth, helping prevent infection. They also can preserve the alignment of teeth when a tooth is lost.

Making a dental crown typically takes two visits to your dentist. The first visit is usually spent prepping the tooth in need of repair and creating a mold for the permanent crown. You have a temporary crown after your first visit. The permanent crown is placed on the second visit. Dental crowns can last from five to 15 years, depending on what they are made of and how well you care for your teeth. It helps if you maintain good oral hygiene like brushing twice a day, flossing once a day, and avoiding habits that would damage the crown, like chewing on ice and hard candy. 

What crowns are made of

Dentists use a variety of materials to make dental crowns, with various strengths and weaknesses. The material chosen can affect the cost as well as the final appearance.

Porcelain

A porcelain crown offers a strong fix using metal underneath the cap with an overlay closely matching the surrounding teeth. Porcelain crowns are used to repair front and back teeth.

All-ceramic

An all-ceramic crown can be used for people who have allergies to metals. Ceramic crowns are used for the front teeth. They offer better color matching to the natural teeth.

Pressed ceramic

A pressed ceramic crown typically lasts longer than an all-porcelain crown. These crowns have a porcelain cap offering a better color match to the natural teeth. They also have a hard inner core that replaces the metal liner used to make all-ceramic crowns.

Metals

The most common metals used for crowns are gold, nickel, chromium, or palladium. Metal crowns last the longest and are not prone to chipping or breaking. They can withstand chewing or biting hard substances like ice or candy. Metals also tend to be the lowest cost. However, the main drawback to metal is the color does not match your teeth.

Resin

Another low-cost option for crowns is resin. However, these crowns may not last as long as other materials, which can add up to more out-of-pocket costs in the long run.

Conclusion

Selecting a dental crown could mean higher costs in the short term, but a boost of your self-confidence and attractiveness is priceless. If you need a dental crown, speak with your dentist to discuss your options.

Request an appointment here: https://testcummingsfamilydentist.dgdevnext.com or call Cumming's Family Dentist at (770) 205-9226 for an appointment in our Cumming office.