When it comes to dentistry, dental crowns are one of the more common procedures performed on patients. Your dentist may recommend a crown if you have a cavity that is too big for a filling to fix. Crowns can also be used to fix cracked teeth and other issues patients may have. But what is a dental crown? How do you know you need it? We’re here to answer your questions on the basics.

What is a dental crown made of?

Crowns can be made of all sorts of materials. The type of crown a patient gets can vary based on cost, aesthetic, and strength. The most common types of crowns are made from metal like Gold or nick, porcelain, or ceramic. Porcelain and ceramic crowns are better for matching your tooth color while metal crowns are typically lower in cost.

What are crowns used for?

Crowns can be used to fix many types of dental issues. In short, crowns are used to protect the remaining tooth structure of damaged teeth. Your dentist may choose to use a crown in place of a filling if the cavity is too big, your tooth is too worn down, or if it is cracked. The goal of a crown is to strengthen a weakened tooth.

What kinds of procedures use crowns?

Crowns can be done as a standalone procedure or as part of a bigger treatment plan. For example, patients who have root canals typically have a crown placed to protect the weakened enamel. Crowns are also placed over dental implants once placed.

Is a crown right for me?

The best person to help you determine if a crown is right for you is your general dentist. With help from x-rays, they can perform a thorough exam to see if there are cracks, fractures, or cavities that may warrant a crown. From there, they can let you know what type of crowns they recommend and what your out-of-pocket cost would be.

In conclusion, crowns are used to protect teeth where fillings can’t. They are typically made of metal, porcelain, ceramic and vary in cost. Your dentist can determine the best option to restore your tooth and make treatment affordable for you. Talk to your dentist today!