There are several reasons why you may want to choose a ceramic crown over the other types of crowns available. Understanding why a tooth may need a crown may also help you in your decision. There are a few different types of crowns to choose from and each has its advantages and disadvantages.
Why a Tooth May Need a Crown
A natural tooth is very strong and stable under ideal conditions. When the tooth has been compromised in a way that undermines its strength and stability it may need a crown. People of all ages have teeth crowned when necessary, even children.
In the case of a child, primary teeth are highly susceptible to decay. These first teeth provide the pathway for the permanent teeth to come in. If a baby tooth is lost prematurely, for example, a badly decayed tooth that needs to be extracted, the permanent tooth may come in crooked or out of place. If the primary tooth is badly decayed, but can be saved, the decay will be cleaned out and the cavity filled, and a steel crown will be placed on the tooth to protect it.
In adults, large areas of decay are treated the same way: cleaned out filled with an appropriate filling material then crowned. The crown gives the tooth the stability and strength it needs. Adult teeth are also crowned for other reasons.
When a tooth has root canal therapy the nerve is removed, and the tooth is basically dead. It can become brittle and break easily. A crown is put on the tooth to strengthen and stabilize it. Sometimes a tooth will be crowned if it is misshapen or badly discolored. Teeth that are cracked or broken and can be saved are also good candidates for crowns. The crown protects the tooth from further damage.
The Beauty of Ceramic Crowns
There are several types of crowns. Usually, children will have steel crowns because their baby teeth will be coming out anyway. Adults, however, have the choice of varied materials. There are gold alloy crowns, porcelain fused to metal and ceramic crowns. Both gold alloy and porcelain fused to metal take several procedures to make. A ceramic crown on the other hand can be made and seated in one visit to the dental office. You will not have to wait weeks to have your tooth crowned.
If you have a tooth that needs a crown why not call Spring Cypress Dental? We will give your tooth a thorough exam and if it needs a crown, you may be able to get it in the same day.