Dental caps and dental crowns, tooth veneers and bridgework; if you are dealing with misshapen or missing teeth, all the new dental terms to consider can be overwhelming. If you are juggling caps and crowns, don’t worry, they are the exact same thing! The dentists at Marsfield Dental Clinic will make sure you understand all your options, so you can choose the one best suited to you. Read on to see the kind of guidance and care you can expect at our dental clinic.
Dental crowns are the caps that fit on damaged teeth, to protect them from further damage and restore their form and function. The tooth may be chipped, cracked, fractured or broken, or damaged from tooth rot and decay. Sometimes a crown isn’t for the tooth itself, but to support a denture or a dental bridge, or to cover a dental implant. Whatever the reason, usually the crown is custom-made to match the rest of your teeth in terms of size, shape and colour. Dental crowns are usually ceramic or metal alloy. Your dental crown will merge seamlessly with the underlying tooth, giving you a flawless finish and a natural look.
Ceramic dental crowns are made of layer upon layer of porcelain. The depth of layers is key to how ceramic crowns look. This material and structure give it a similar colour to your teeth, so if you’re going for the most natural look possible, choose ceramic crowns. The one downside is that these dental crowns are strong in one sense, but very brittle and liable to chips and cracks. Ceramic crowns may be the best option for front teeth, which have a greater role in aesthetics but aren’t so important for the grinding action of chewing.
Metal alloy dental crowns can be a mix of metals such as gold, platinum, palladium, cobalt, chromium and nickel. Metal is more durable than ceramic, and these crowns tend to last longer. More importantly, they mould better onto the shape of your teeth, so there is less wear and tear onto the underlying tooth from the long-term use of a dental crown. However, the downside of alloy crowns is that they are gold or silver in colour, depending on the mix of metals used. Because of this, some crowns are a fusion of the two types, with a metal base overlaid with a porcelain shell, combining durability with aesthetics.
The procedure to install your dental crown is easier than you may first think. On your first visit to the dental clinic, the dentist will examine, prepare and take a mould of the shape of the tooth. The dentist will place a temporary crown, for the few days or weeks while your permanent crown is being made to fit your mouth. On the second visit, the dentist will place your custom dental crown. If you are ready to begin your process, call or book online with Marsfield Dental Clinic!
Disclaimer – This blog article does not constitute health advice from a dental professional. For more specific information, please seek an appointment with a dentist.
"The information in this website may be simplified in nature and does not replace professional advice. Risks and consequences may apply to any treatment. Always seek a second opinion when considering complex treatment. A referral to a specialist may be required in certain situations. Quotations can only be given after proper clinical assessment and so pricing details cannot be given over the phone."
COVID 19 Update - Oct 2021
All our members of staff - Dentists and supporting assistants - are fully vaccinated. We are a COVID-safe practice and we are open for all general dental treatment needs and services.
