These restorations are tooth-shaped caps that are placed over a damaged tooth, fully encasing it. Compared to traditional crowns made of metal or other materials, porcelain is can be customized from their shape to their color. This allows dentists to create a crown that closely matches the natural appearance of your other teeth, matching the rest of your smile.
A Durable and Resilient Treatment Option
Porcelain crowns are known for their durability and resilience, with an average lifespan of 10 to 15 years with consistent maintenance. They can withstand daily activities such as chewing and speaking without cracking or wearing down, making them a long-lasting solution for patients. Additionally, porcelain crowns are biocompatible, meaning they are unlikely to cause allergic reactions or adverse effects, which can be a concern with some metal material.
Porcelain crowns are versatile and can address a range of dental issues, such as:
- Tooth Decay: If a tooth has decayed beyond what a filling can repair, a crown can help protect and strengthen it.
- Fractured or Cracked Teeth: For teeth weakened by cracks or fractures, porcelain crowns provide added support and prevent further damage.
- Severe Discoloration: Teeth that are stained or discolored beyond the help of whitening treatments can benefit from crowns, which cover discoloration completely.
- After Root Canal Treatment: Teeth that have undergone root canal therapy are often more brittle, making crowns essential for protection.
How Do Porcelain Crowns Save Smiles?
During the first visit, any decayed or damaged teeth are removed and reshaped to accommodate the crown. An impression of the tooth is taken to ensure a precise fit, and a temporary crown is placed while the permanent one is being crafted.
Once the crown is ready, the temporary one is removed, and the porcelain one is fitted adjusted, and bonded to the tooth. This seamless restoration not only protects the tooth from further decay or breakage but also restores its natural appearance, giving patients a confident, healthy-looking smile.
Maintaining Your Porcelain Crown
Taking care of a porcelain crown is similar to caring for natural teeth. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are essential to maintain the crown and the surrounding teeth. Avoiding hard or sticky foods can help prevent potential damage to the crown and prolong its lifespan.
Porcelain crowns are an effective, long-lasting solution for restoring both the function and appearance of damaged teeth. By choosing a porcelain crown, patients can enjoy a durable, natural-looking restoration that revitalizes their smile and protects their oral health for years to come. Whether you’re dealing with decay, fractures, or discoloration, porcelain crowns provide a practical way to save and enhance your smile.