Losing a tooth, or having one extracted, can leave us feeling self-conscious about our smile. That’s what makes getting dental crowns such a wonderful experience! These restorations do an excellent job of restoring the beauty of our smiles. Unfortunately, dental crowns can become damaged. This damage can happen as the result of simple wear and tear or from a traumatic dental injury. While it can be disheartening when you discover a broken crown, repairs are possible.
Discovering Dental Crowns And Their Repair
Crowns are usually suggested when a tooth is lost or damaged. The damage may be the result of tooth decay, or it may come from physical trauma. Either way, the repair is almost always possible for dental crowns. In certain extreme cases, a complete replacement of the crown may be necessary. Your dentist can correct even extraction with a dental crown. Crowns are mounted on the titanium posts that are used for dental implants. In all cases, there are multiple material choices available:
- Ceramic: Strong and versatile, this material is prized for its ability to mimic natural teeth’ appearance closely.
- Resin: This material is inexpensive and easy to shape but lacks in both beauty and durability. It is most often used for a temporary crown while the more durable permanent one is made. It may be used as a permanent replacement in some rare cases, though it will need frequent maintenance.
- Porcelain Fused to Metal: When you want a combination of beauty and durability, PFM crowns are the way to go. The only drawback is that metal is sometimes visible at the bottom of the crown, above the gum line.
- Base Metal Alloys are prized for their durability and prestige; base metal alloy crowns are mostly vanity items. While they are indeed durable, it’s impossible to miss them in patients who have them. The sole exception will be if they are used in the rear of the mouth.
The majority of crowns will have a lifetime of up to fifteen years. While the most popular for those seeking a natural look, porcelain tends to need more upkeep. Their durability falls somewhere between metal and ceramic.
What To Do When Your Crown Is Damaged
The first call you make after discovering your crown is broken is to your dentist. Their primary step will be to assess the damage to the tooth. If you’re in a significant amount of pain, they’ll often direct you to the emergency room. If there’s little or no pain, they’ll schedule an appointment where they can do an in-person assessment. More often than not, they’ll be able to provide a repair option for your crown. In the rare cases they can’t, your dentist will discuss a replacement.
Reach Out To Your Dentist For More Advice
Any remaining concerns you have about dental crowns and repairing them should be directed to your dentist. Thousands of people invest in these dental restorations and experience the confidence and benefit of a new smile every year.
