Getting Crowns on Front Teeth
If you have been struggling with discolored, broken, or misaligned teeth, you may consider getting a front tooth crown. Getting a dental crown may make a difference as it may help you prevent further decay, provide additional strength to your weakened teeth, and boost your self-confidence. Read on to learn about how a dental crown on your front teeth may help along with its procedure.
What Is A Dental Crown?
A front tooth dental crown also known as cosmetic dentistry is a cap in the shape of a tooth that covers a damaged tooth or gets placed on an implant. The crown helps to improve the appearance and restore or provide support to your tooth. It is a permanent procedure where the crown is cemented in place.
The Advantages of Crowns for Your Front Teeth
One of the advantages of a dental crown is that it can extend the life of a natural tooth. Crowns are important for your front teeth due to the following:
- Protection from erosion or wear and tear
- Improvement in chewing
- Enhancing your aesthetics and appearance
- Helps to treat any broken or worn-out teeth
- Crowns last for somewhere between 5 to 15 years with proper care and maintenance
How Do They Differ From Other Types Of Dental Crowns?
Some of the reasons why front dental crowns are different from other dental crowns are as follows:
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Shape and size: As front teeth have different shapes and sizes; the crowns are customized to be similar to natural contours. It must blend seamlessly with other neighboring teeth.
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Color: Front dental crowns are necessary as front teeth are highly visible. They must match the translucency and color of surrounding teeth. They are often designed in materials such as ceramic or porcelain or maybe a combination of these materials.
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Material: The materials used in front teeth crowns are ceramic or porcelain that will resemble the natural appearance.
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Biting function: Front teeth have a unique biting function. Therefore, their crowns must be designed to fit rightly so that they function appropriately.
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Light Transmission: Front teeth crowns must be designed in such a way that allows light to pass through. It will create a natural look and appearance.
Indications For Needing A Crown On Your Front Teeth
There are various reasons why you require a crown on your front teeth. Some of them are as follows:
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Tooth decay or cavities: Tooth that has been decaying or has large cavity require crowns to help restore structure of your tooth. They are an ideal choice for those who are choosing for fillings for advanced cavities as they provide more strength.
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Cracked or fractured teeth: Crowns will help to prevent any damage and stabilize a fractured tooth.
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Tooth Sensitivity: Teeth that are sensitive to hot and cold temperatures require protection in the form of crowns.
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Pain while chewing: Crowns will help to reduce the pain which a patient may experience while chewing or biting food with force.
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Bruxism: In some cases, the teeth may be grinded. Therefore, a crown is required to fix your teeth that are damaged due to grinding.
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Cosmetic reasons: If you want to improve the appearance of your tooth, then you can choose to go for crowns.
Types Of Crowns For Front Teeth
Dental crowns are of different types for all types of teeth whether front or any other. Every crown type has its own unique characteristics.
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Porcelain crowns
Porcelain crowns provide an exact resemblance to your real teeth. This material is popular for front teeth crowns due to its durability making them last for years. In these crowns, the procedure includes reshaping the tooth and then taking impressions of the crown. Patients generally prefer these crowns as they are an affordable option.
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Zirconia Crowns
Zirconia crowns have their own characteristic features that make them the preferable choice for crowns. They are known for providing strength, durability, and withstand wear and tear. The procedure includes tooth preparation and impressions and the price ranges from medium to high. When zirconia crowns are used for front teeth, they are preferably combined with porcelain. One of the differences between zirconia and porcelain is that zirconia is natural and porcelain is available in color variations.
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Metal crowns
Metal crowns are less frequently used than other crowns. They are made from gold or chromium material. They are known for durability and damage resistance. As the name suggests, they have a metallic appearance and therefore they are an ideal choice for back teeth. The procedure includes tooth preparation and then cementing the crown and is budget-friendly.
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Resin Crowns
One of the economical options for crowns is resin crowns. However, they are less durable in comparison to other crown materials. The procedure involves shaping of tooth and placement of crown.
The Procedure Step-by-Step: From Consultation to Final Placement
The procedure for front teeth crowns starts with consultation with temporary crowns and then the final placement of permanent crowns.
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Preparing the Tooth: What to expect during your visit
The procedure for front teeth crowns begins with an initial consultation. During your first visit, the dentist will analyze the overall condition of your tooth, which will help determine whether the crown is the right solution for your dental issue. They will also let you know about different treatment options and will answer all your dental problems.
In the next appointment, the dentist will try to comfort you by performing the procedure with an anesthetic. They will shape up the tooth which is damaged from all sides and trim it. The shaping process is necessary as it helps to create a tooth-shaped mold that will serve as a blueprint for a custom permanent crown. Then, the mold is sent to the laboratory for further process to make a permanent crown.
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The role of temporary crowns
The temporary crown will help you till then and will maintain functionality and provide the necessary protection. After the permanent crown is ready, the procedure will start. The temporary crown will be removed and will be replaced by a permanent crown created according to the patient’s customization.
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Final Placement: Ensuring a perfect fit and natural look
The sealing of the permanent crown will take place by using dental cement. Lastly, excess dental cement will be removed by the dentist carefully. Once the placement of the permanent crown is done, the patient can organize routine checkups with the doctor. In these checkups, your alignment, appearance, and crown functionality will be monitored. They will ensure that you are comfortable with the crown according to your particular requirements.
Evaluating The Different Procedures: Same-Day Vs. Traditional Multi-Day Process
When you are choosing to undergo front teeth crown treatments, you may choose same-day or multi-day procedures. However, both have different benefits. Some are as follows:
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Same-Day Crowns: In the same-day crown procedure, advanced CAD/CAM technology is used. The technology helps to design, mill, and then place the crown in one visit only. It is beneficial for patients who are seeking for quick solution as they will see an immediate outcome. One limitation can be that options for material can be limited, and there can be some difference in the precision according to the complexity of the case.
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Traditional Multi-Day Crowns: In a traditional multi-day crown treatment, there are various steps, such as:
-Taking impressions
-Crafting crowns in a dental laboratory
-Fitting the crown in the next appointment
Multiple visit treatment provides more flexibility and options for materials ranging from porcelain to fuse to metal, greater customization, and accuracy in refining of aesthetics.
You may choose according to your priority, time, complexity of the case, and aesthetics. Therefore, it is necessary to consult with a dentist who can help you determine the most appropriate choice according to your requirements.
Maintaining your new smile: best practices for oral hygiene
To keep your dental crowns in a good condition, you need to take good care of them along with maintenance and longevity. You can do it in the following ways:
- Try to brush your teeth twice a day by using soft-bristled toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste if possible
- You can floss your teeth at least once every day
- Avoid eating very hard or chewy foods
- To stay away from bacteria and dental plaque, use an antibacterial mouthwash
- Get frequent dental cleanings
Understanding When To Call A Dentist: Troubleshooting Common Issues
You need to call a dentist when your tooth is hurting, tooth sensitivity, dry mouth, missing teeth, bad taste in your mouth, and other dental problems. A dentist can give you the best advice and suggest the right dental treatment according to your specific needs. Therefore, it is always good to consult a dentist as early intervention will not only save you money but also prevent unnecessary pain as well.