DENTAL TREATMENTS

DENTAL CROWN

What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a fitted cap that covers a tooth that has suffered damage from decay or trauma. It can restore its size, shape, and appearance. Crowns can be made from different materials, such as ceramic (porcelain), metal, or a combination of the two.

For a crown to be fitted, your tooth will be shaped for the crown, an impression will be taken to make the crown, and then the crown will be permanently cemented onto the tooth.

What are Dental Crowns Made Of?

Permanent crowns are typically made of:

Ceramic or porcelain, such as zirconia or lithium disilicate
Metals, such as gold- or silver-based alloys, titanium, or stainless steel
Metal-ceramic or PFM (porcelain fused to a metal framework)
Composite resin, similar to that used in dental fillings

Which material your dentist uses will depend on your needs and preferences, as well as the availability of the material. Your dentist may also have a preference for certain materials.

When is a Dental Crown Necessary?

There are various reasons for someone to have a crown placed. For example, your dentist may recommend a crown to:

Restore a broken or otherwise damaged tooth
Cover a tooth with a large filling
Protect a tooth after root canal therapy
Cover the abutment of a dental implant

Generally, a crown is necessary when the tooth in question would otherwise:

Be vulnerable to further damage or infection
Cause pain during normal daily activities
Not be able to function like a tooth normally would
Affect your bite

DENTAL IMPLANTS

What are Dental Implants?

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root surgically implanted into your jawbone. It is a popular tooth replacement option after tooth loss or extraction.

Dental Implant Structure: How They Work

The body of a dental implant consists of three pieces that serve different functions:

The implant (or screw) serves as the tooth’s artificial root.
The abutment is the connecting post between the implant screw and crown.
The crown is the ‘fake’ tooth that rests on top of the abutment. They match the shape and look of your natural teeth

4 Types of Dental Implants

There are different types of dental implants available:

1. Single Tooth Implant

A single dental implant is ideal when one tooth is missing, and you want to replace it for aesthetics, comfort, and function. It requires one dental crown that connects to the implant screw.

2. Implant-Supported Bridge

Implant-supported bridges are ideal for people with several missing teeth. The implant acts as an anchor for the bridge (instead of a natural tooth).

A fixed dental bridge restores function by preventing other teeth from moving. It also improves eating and speaking functions.

3. All-on-4 Dental Implants

All-on-4 implants are recommended when a patient is looking for a secure solution for many missing teeth. This solution restores your entire upper or lower jaw (or both arches).

This is a permanent restoration. However, the overdenture can be removed for cleaning and dental exams.

4. 3-on-6 Dental Implants

An alternative to an implant-retained denture is a 3-on-6 implant. It consists of three individual dental bridges attached to six dental implants.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants have their benefits. However, they can also come with disadvantages.

Here are the benefits of dental implants:

Allows you to chew and speak normally
Designed to look like your natural teeth, improving your self-esteem
Reduces stress on your remaining natural teeth by offering independent support
Preserves bone, reducing the appearance of aging
Helps prevent loss of jaw height
Easy to clean and care for
With proper care, implants can last between 15 and 25 years

Here are the disadvantages of getting dental implants:

Will not whiten like your natural teeth
Requires an invasive surgery for placement
They are expensive (but the long-term benefits are usually worth it)
Bone grafting may be necessary before placement if you do not have enough natural bone remaining

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