Dental crowns – who are they recommended for?
Proper dental care is not only about prevention but also about improving the aesthetics of our smile. In our article series, we’ve already discussed related treatments such as bonding and veneers. Today, however, we’ll take a closer look at dental crowns. We’ll compare the key aspects of these procedures to help make your decision easier!
What Are Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are durable prosthetic caps placed over a natural tooth or implant to reinforce its structure while maintaining full functionality. They are made from high-strength materials such as ceramic or porcelain fused to metal. Thanks to this, they retain their aesthetic appeal for many years.
While both bonding and veneers can enhance the appearance of teeth, crowns are irreplaceable in cases that require extensive tooth reconstruction. They help restore full biting comfort and preserve the healthy structure of a tooth when cavities or damage are too extensive for less invasive treatments.
When to Consider Getting a Crown
Crowns are recommended when a tooth is severely damaged by decay, fractured, or weakened after root canal treatment and requires full restoration. They are also an excellent solution for significant aesthetic issues — improving both the shape and color of a tooth while protecting it from further damage.
However, if the defect is minor, it may be better to consider bonding or veneers, which are less invasive and preserve more of the natural tooth structure. The final choice should depend on the condition of the teeth, the patient's expectations, and the dentist’s professional recommendation.
Crown Placement Process
The first step is a consultation and assessment of the oral condition. The dentist evaluates the extent of the issue and selects the most appropriate treatment method. Next, the surface of the tooth is prepared, followed by taking an impression or a digital scan. This ensures that the crown will be perfectly tailored to the patient’s individual anatomy.
In comparison to bonding—which does not require such advanced preparation—and veneers, where only the front part of the tooth is shaved, crowns are considered a more invasive procedure. Nevertheless, in the case of severely damaged teeth, they prove to be the most effective solution. They offer a chance to retain the tooth in the oral cavity and avoid extraction. After the final crown is fabricated, it is fitted, the bite comfort is assessed, and then it is permanently cemented.
Contraindications and Limitations
Although dental crowns are commonly used, there are situations where they are not suitable. Severe periodontal disease or an insufficient amount of hard dental tissue can exclude the possibility of placing a crown. In such cases, the dentist may recommend bone reconstruction, periodontal treatment, or prosthetic reinforcement of the root to allow for successful and durable crown placement in the future.
It’s also important to remember that alternative methods—such as bonding or veneers—also come with their own contraindications, especially when the tooth is severely damaged or there are significant bite issues.
Caring for Teeth with Crowns
To ensure crowns last for many years, proper oral hygiene is essential. Thorough cleaning of the gum line and interdental spaces helps prevent inflammation and maintains the health of both natural teeth and prosthetic restorations.
You should also avoid habits that put excessive strain on teeth, such as biting hard objects or using your teeth to open packaging. And don’t forget—regular dental check-ups are crucial! They help detect any irregularities early on and allow you to maintain a beautiful, healthy smile for many years to come.