Dental crowns are not a ‘modern’ invention. Not many people know that their history dates back to 200AD where they were first created in gold. The Etruscans, in what became known as Italy, were using this material to cover damaged teeth and as bridges across teeth. The first versions of porcelain crowns were invented in the late 1800s and were known as ‘jacket’ crowns.
Now, crowns can be created using porcelain, porcelain -fused-to-metal, resin, ceramics, and metals such as chromium, nickel, palladium, and gold. The popularity of gold or metal hasn’t lost its popularity for nearly two thousand years. Probably because in terms of wear, metal crowns last longer, they seldom chip or break and only require a small amount of tooth removal. Metal crowns, thanks to their durability, are best used for teeth that are seldom seen, while teeth that have a high visibility may look best in porcelain, resin or ceramics which can be tinted to match your other teeth.
Beyond the health of your teeth, are crowns an advantage?
If you are self-conscious about uneven or damaged teeth, crowns can provide that perfect Hollywood smile and restore your self-confidence.
Here are 8 reasons why you may need a crown
- Replacing a large filling or covering and supporting a tooth with a large filling and very little actual tooth remaining.
- Restoring a broken or damaged tooth or a severely worn-down tooth.
- Protecting a weak tooth from breaking, or if it is cracked then it holds the tooth together.
- Protect and increase the strength of a tooth that has had root canal treatment.
- Improve appearance and shape of teeth by covering misshapen or teeth too severely discoloured to benefit from tooth whitening.
- Covering a dental implant.
- Holding a dental bridge in place.
- Crowns are durable and last for years
Crowns absolutely do make a difference. Just look at this before and after photo!
SO WHY AREN’T CROWNS THE GO-TO SOLUTION INSTEAD OF FILLINGS?
Good question, and one we are asked a lot. The simple answer is that it may not be necessary. A filling may be all that’s required. If a patient does need something more substantial a full crown may be over-enthusiastic. A crown covers your whole tooth, while onlays and 3/4 crowns may be appropriate when you still have a solid tooth structure.
Here are 3 reasons why crowns are not the go-to option instead of fillings
- Crowns are more expensive than fillings
- Crowns can rarely be fixed if they are damaged. They need to be replaced.
- A fair amount of preparation on the tooth is required
- Your dentist may even need to do a root canal treatment before your dental crown procedure if there’s any tooth decay, risk of infection, or injury to the tooth’s pulp.
Crowns are pricey, but Team Dental offers them at a reduced rate of $1400 and offers payment terms.
If you think you may need a crown, or any other dental work, contact your nearest Team Dental surgery for a consultation.
Read more here If you need a Root Canal and a Crown.
