What Does a Dental Crown Look Like?
A dental crown, also known as a cap, is a tooth-shaped covering that encases a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, strength, and appearance. Understanding what a dental crown looks like involves considering several factors, including the material used and the tooth it's covering.
While the exact appearance varies, here's a general idea:
Imagine a thimble-shaped cap, perfectly fitted over the visible portion of your tooth, from just above the gum line to the biting surface. It's designed to mimic the natural shape and color of your tooth, blending seamlessly with your existing smile. However, up close, there might be subtle differences depending on the material.
What Materials Are Dental Crowns Made From?
The material greatly influences the look of a dental crown. Common materials include:
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Porcelain: This is a popular choice because it can be precisely matched to the color of your natural teeth, resulting in a very natural-looking crown. Porcelain crowns are strong and resistant to staining, but they can be more brittle than some other options. They generally appear smooth and glossy.
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Ceramic: Similar to porcelain, ceramic crowns offer a highly aesthetic result, mimicking the translucency and natural light reflection of natural teeth. They are also strong and resistant to staining.
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Metal: Metal crowns, often made of gold alloys or base metal alloys (like nickel-chromium), are incredibly durable and strong. They are typically less expensive than porcelain or ceramic crowns, but they are obviously more noticeable due to their metallic appearance. They are less aesthetically pleasing, however, their strength is a major advantage.
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Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM): These crowns combine the strength of a metal base with the aesthetic appeal of a porcelain outer layer. The metal shows slightly at the gum line, however, this is often not very noticeable.
What are the Different Types of Dental Crowns?
There are different types of crowns depending on the procedure. A few of these types include:
- Full Coverage Crowns: These encase the entire visible portion of the tooth.
- Partial Coverage Crowns (Inlays/Onlays): These cover only a portion of the tooth's surface, generally used for smaller restorations.
The appearance will vary based on this type as well. A full crown will fully cover the tooth structure, while an inlay or onlay might be less noticeable if the restoration is small.
How Does a Dental Crown Feel?
Besides the look, you might wonder how it feels. A properly fitted crown should feel comfortable and natural. You should not feel any discomfort or irritation. If you experience any sensitivity or discomfort after having a crown placed, it's important to contact your dentist.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
The longevity of a dental crown depends on several factors, including the material used, your oral hygiene practices, and the amount of wear and tear. With proper care, a dental crown can last for 10-15 years or even longer.
What Happens if My Crown Breaks?
If your crown breaks or becomes loose, it's crucial to contact your dentist immediately. A broken crown can leave your tooth vulnerable to further damage.
In summary, a dental crown’s appearance is highly variable, depending on the material and the specific restoration type. Your dentist can help you choose a crown that both looks natural and provides the durability and protection you need. They will work to perfectly match the color of your natural teeth for a seamless and attractive restoration.
