There are many reasons to practice good oral hygiene, from avoiding diseases to exhaling fresh breath. One very large incentive for brushing, flossing and swishing mouthwash each day is to prevent decay. There are many negative effects of unhealthy, decaying teeth: the weakening of teeth, risk of breakage, and oral disease. To keep decay at bay, it is always a good idea to practice thorough and consistent preventative health care.
If, however, you find your teeth weak, broken, or discolored, it may be a good time to consider the possibility of a dental crown.
Dental crowns are tooth-shaped caps that encase your natural tooth in order to restore its functionality, strengthen it, improve the appearance and protect it from further damage. They are cemented into place and usually cover the entire area of the tooth that rests above the gum line.
There are many different materials available for construction of a dental crown:
- Stainless Steel – Generally used for temporary children’s teeth because they can be put in place in one visit.
- Metal – Because of their noticeable color, these are best for out-of-sight molars; however metal crowns seldom chip, wear-down or break.Palladium
- Porcelain & Metal – The porcelain can be stained to match the natural color of your teeth, although occasionally the metal underneath will show through. This occurs when the overlying porcelain wears, chips or breaks.
- Resin – More affordable than other crown materials, but with a chance of wearing and fracturing.
- Ceramic or porcelain – Ideal for front teeth as they are the most aesthetically pleasing.