Cap teeth, also known as dental crowns, are custom-made, tooth-shaped caps that are placed over a damaged or decayed tooth. They serve as a protective covering, fully encasing the entire visible portion of a tooth above the gum line.
Initially, a temporary crown may be placed, followed by a permanent one. These dental restorations are designed to offer the same function and appearance as natural teeth, restoring the tooth's shape, size, strength, and overall aesthetics.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown acts like a helmet for a tooth, providing comprehensive coverage and protection. It becomes a permanent part of your dental structure, designed to withstand the forces of biting and chewing.
Why Are Cap Teeth Needed?
Dental crowns are recommended for various reasons, primarily to save and restore the functionality and appearance of a compromised tooth. Key situations where a cap tooth may be necessary include:
- Protecting a Weak Tooth: Capping can prevent a weak tooth (for instance, one with large fillings) from breaking or hold parts of a cracked tooth together.
- Restoring a Broken Tooth: Used to restore teeth that are severely worn down or broken.
- Supporting Large Fillings: When there isn't enough tooth structure remaining to support a large filling.
- Covering Discolored or Misshapen Teeth: To improve the cosmetic appearance of severely discolored or misshapen teeth.
- After Root Canal Treatment: To protect the tooth which becomes brittle after a root canal procedure.
- Anchoring Dental Bridges: Crowns are often used to hold a dental bridge in place.
Key Benefits of Dental Crowns
Cap teeth offer significant advantages for dental health and aesthetics:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Restoration | Restores the original shape, size, and strength of a damaged tooth. |
| Protection | Helps to avoid further decay of a problem tooth and prevents fractures in weakened teeth. |
| Functionality | Allows the tooth to perform its normal functions of biting and chewing effectively, just like natural teeth. |
| Appearance | Blends seamlessly with surrounding teeth, enhancing the overall aesthetics of your smile. |
| Durability | A high-quality crown can last for a long time, often up to 15 years with proper care. |
Types of Materials Used
Dental crowns can be made from various materials, each with its own benefits regarding aesthetics, durability, and cost:
- Porcelain or Ceramic: Popular for their natural tooth-like appearance, making them ideal for front teeth.
- Metal Alloys: (Gold, Nickel-Chromium, Palladium) Extremely durable and resistant to fracture, often used for molars.
- Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM): Combines the strength of metal with the aesthetics of porcelain, offering a good balance.
- Zirconia: A very strong and durable material that can be color-matched to natural teeth, increasingly popular.
- Resin: Less expensive but also less durable than other crown types.
Choosing the right type of crown depends on the tooth's location, the biting forces, and aesthetic considerations, all discussed with your dental professional.
Maintaining Your Crown
Proper oral hygiene is essential to ensure the longevity of your dental crown. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and attending regular dental check-ups can help prevent issues like decay around the crown's margin and gum disease, maximizing its lifespan.
