What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a common and extensive procedure that protects a damaged tooth. If your tooth is broken, cracked, or suffering from a large cavity, a crown may be the best option for you. Your dentist may also recommend a crown if you have a small to a moderately sized cavity in a portion of the tooth that’s difficult to protect with a filling.

What Does a Dental Crown Look Like

Once it’s properly installed, your dental crown will look like a natural tooth. The crown covers the entire visible portion of your tooth, all the way down to the gumline. If you get a crown made of metal as opposed to ceramic or resin, of course, the tooth will be obviously metallic. If you opt for a crown that does resemble your natural teeth, the crown will be indistinguishable from the rest of your teeth.

What are Dental Crowns Made of

As mentioned above, there are many materials that can make dental crowns. Gold and silver crowns are very common. Crowns can also be made with stainless steel. These crowns will be tooth-shaped, but obviously not blend in with the rest of your teeth. If you want a crown that looks more like your natural tooth, you can opt for a resin or ceramic crown. These can be color matched to your teeth, so you have the most natural looking smile available.

What is a Partial Crown

A partial crown, or dental onlay, is an option for people whose teeth are not damaged enough to require full crowns. When you want to restore the look of a tooth, a dental onlay can be used. It fits over a side or portion of the tooth, restoring appearance and protecting your tooth from further harm. A partial crown doesn’t require you to shape or file down your teeth. This allows you to keep more of the healthy enamel than you would otherwise be able to.

What is the Difference Between a Cap and a Crown

This is actually a trick question. A cap is the same as a crown. Cap is typically used by laymen. It accurately reflects the function of the dental crown: it “caps” the tooth, preventing further damage. The term crown often gives people the wrong impression about what the piece actually does. Cap and crown can be used interchangeably in most conversations, but you’ll find that your dentist probably sticks with a crown.

If your tooth has sustained extensive damage, a dental crown might be the solution. Crowns protect your tooth from further decay and reduce the odds of chipping or cracking. They can be made from metal, resin, or porcelain. While some crowns are obvious, most today are made to blend into your smile so naturally that even a dentist will have to take an X-ray to see which is which. If you’re thinking of changing the appearance of your tooth or gaining more confidence from a smoother smile, contact our office at (831) 449-8363. The staff at Russell Cureton, DDS, General & Cosmetic Dentistry, are here to help you get the smile you want.