A dental crown, also known as a tooth cap, is one of the therapeutic and cosmetic solutions that dentists use in various situations. It is applied to protect the natural tooth or to improve its appearance. Although placing a crown may seem simple, it is a precise dental procedure that is determined based on each patient’s individual condition.
Using a dental crown properly and at the right time can preserve the tooth for many years and prevent extraction. The materials used to make a crown differ depending on the tooth’s condition and position (front or back teeth) as well as the patient’s budget.
Over time, your teeth may wear down for several reasons, such as tooth decay, trauma, or natural wear. A dental crown acts as a tooth-shaped cover that is placed over a tooth when such issues occur.
Reasons for Getting a Dental Crown
After root canal treatment: After root canal therapy (endodontic treatment), the tooth often loses much of its strength, making it more prone to fracture.
Therefore, it is usually recommended to place a crown on the tooth after root canal treatment to provide a strong protective layer—especially for molars that endure chewing pressure.
Broken or cracked teeth: If a tooth is broken or cracked due to trauma or accident, a dental crown can restore its shape and function and protect it from further damage.
Severe wear due to bruxism or acidity: Some patients suffer from teeth grinding (bruxism) during sleep or acid erosion caused by gastric reflux, leading to enamel wear.
In such cases, a crown is used to cover the affected tooth and restore bite height.
Improving the appearance of deformed teeth: In cases of severe discoloration or congenital deformities in tooth structure, a crown is used to enhance the aesthetic appearance—especially for front teeth—providing a more balanced smile.
Covering dental implants: After a dental implant is placed, it is covered with a custom-made crown that restores full function and appearance.
Restoration of broken or severely worn teeth.
Types of Dental Crowns
When considering a dental crown, it is important to understand the differences between available types, as they vary in materials, durability, appearance, and longevity.
Here is a detailed look at each type:
1- Metal Crown (Gold/Chrome):
Many metals can be used to make dental crowns, such as gold, palladium, nickel, and chromium. Metal crowns rarely chip or break, are highly resistant to wear, and require minimal removal of tooth structure.
This type is known for high strength and long durability, making it ideal for back molars that bear chewing forces. However, the metallic color makes it less aesthetically pleasing, especially for visible teeth when smiling.
Some patients may also experience metal allergies, particularly to nickel. Overall, metal crowns are more functional than aesthetic, and they can withstand strong biting and chewing forces. The main drawback is their metallic color, making them more suitable for posterior teeth that are not visible.
2- Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crown:
If you are looking for a balance between strength and aesthetics, the PFM crown is one of the most popular options in dental clinics. It consists of a metal base covered with a porcelain layer, providing an appearance that resembles natural teeth.
However, over time, a gray line may appear near the gum line, and the color may change due to dark beverages or smoking. Thus, it is more suitable for back teeth and can be used for front teeth with caution. Other disadvantages include possible chipping or wear of the porcelain layer or wear on the opposing natural teeth.
3- Zirconia Crown:
Zirconium is a relatively new material that combines metal-like strength with ceramic beauty. Zirconia crowns have become highly popular for their aesthetic appeal and durability.
- Main advantages of zirconia crowns:
- Provide excellent aesthetics similar to natural teeth.
- Highly strong and long-lasting (less prone to wear or fracture).
Can be milled and shaped in the clinic using CAD/CAM technology—no need to send to a dental lab.
If you want a crown that offers both durability and natural appearance, the zirconia crown is one of the most advanced solutions. It is metal-free, making it safe for patients with allergies, and it resists fracture and wear, suitable for both front and back teeth.
4- E-max Crown:
If you are seeking maximum natural aesthetics and translucency, the E-max crown made of lithium disilicate is the perfect choice. It reflects light similarly to natural teeth, making it ideal for front teeth that form a major part of the smile. However, despite its superior beauty, it is less strong than zirconia, so it is not preferred for molars that bear heavy force.
Main advantages of E-max crowns:
- Provide stunning natural appearance identical to real teeth.
- Extremely durable and strong.
- Excellent option for both front and back teeth (depending on the case).
5- Resin Crown:
For temporary or more affordable solutions, resin crowns (made of acrylic or composite) are used, typically as temporary crowns while waiting for the permanent one. They are easy to fabricate and inexpensive, but prone to fracture and discoloration, and are not recommended as long-term solutions.
Steps of Dental Crown Placement
First visit:
Diagnosis and X-rays: The dentist examines the tooth to be covered and takes X-rays to check its roots and health.
Tooth preparation: The tooth is reshaped by trimming its surface from all sides to create space for the crown, ensuring a perfect fit without gaps.
Digital or traditional impression: An impression is taken using a digital scanner or traditional mold to create a precisely fitting crown.
Temporary crown placement: A temporary crown is fitted to protect the prepared tooth until the permanent crown is ready.
Second visit:
Testing the permanent crown: The dentist checks the final crown for fit and alignment with adjacent teeth.
Color and size adjustment: The shade is matched precisely to the natural teeth, and any height or pressure adjustments on the gum are made.
Final cementation: The permanent crown is cemented using a strong dental adhesive for maximum stability.
Advantages of Dental Crowns
1. Protection for weak teeth
When a tooth is severely damaged or weakened after a deep root canal, it becomes vulnerable to pressure during chewing. Here, the dental crown acts as a protective shield, surrounding the tooth and preventing further damage—extending its lifespan and avoiding extraction.
2. Improved chewing and speech
A dental crown restores proper chewing and speech, especially when back molars or front incisors are affected. It helps distribute chewing forces evenly and prevents jaw joint issues. It also improves pronunciation and boosts confidence.
3. Long-lasting cosmetic solution
Dental crowns not only restore damaged teeth but also offer aesthetic benefits. Because they match the color and shape of your natural teeth, they instantly correct discoloration, deformities, chips, and cracks. For example, zirconia or E-max crowns can create a natural, radiant smile that is indistinguishable from real teeth.
4. Reduced tooth sensitivity
Crowns help complete restorative treatments and protect the remaining tooth structure after procedures such as root canal therapy. They reduce sensitivity to temperature and pressure by sealing the tooth from external stimuli.
5. Simple procedure
Although restorative dentistry may sound complex, preparing a tooth for a crown is straightforward. After removing decayed tissue and shaping the tooth, an impression is taken—digitally or using a traditional mold—and sent to Wonders Dentistry where our specialists fit the custom-made crown precisely in place.
6. Long lifespan
Crown materials are designed to last for many years, withstanding chewing and grinding forces. With good oral hygiene, crowns can last over 30 years.
7. Stain resistance (in some types)
Types like zirconia and E-max resist staining from food and beverages.
Disadvantages of Dental Crowns
- Sensitivity after placement: mild discomfort that usually subsides within days.
- Risk of fracture (especially porcelain crowns).
- Bite adjustment may be needed if the crown isn’t perfectly aligned.
- Higher cost for premium materials (depends on type, clinic, and dentist expertise).
- Dark line near the gum (common with porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns).
- Crown detachment: can occur due to improper cementation.
- Loose crown: loss of cement can lead to mobility and bacterial leakage.
- Broken crown: small chips can be repaired; larger fractures may require replacement.
Tips for Dental Crown Care
- Use a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching the surface.
- Floss daily using special floss for crowns.
- Avoid chewing hard foods like ice or nuts.
- Visit your dentist every 6 months for check-ups on the crown and gums.
Warning Signs Requiring Dental Visit
- Persistent pain under the crown weeks after placement.
- Feeling that the crown is loose or moving.
- Constant bad odor or unusual taste.
- These symptoms may indicate decay beneath the crown or gum infection that requires immediate treatment.
Conclusion
Placing a dental crown is an essential procedure to preserve the natural tooth for as long as possible while improving oral function and appearance. However, success depends not only on the type of crown but also on accurate diagnosis, proper material selection, and precise placement.
At Wonders Dentistry, we provide the latest materials, advanced technology, and expert cosmetic restoration specialists.
Restore your smile with confidence… Start your journey today at Wonders Dentistry — book your consultation now.
