Indication for Full Coverage Crowns
A tooth is made of three layers: the enamel, the dentin, and the pulp. Dentin is a collagen-rich material that makes up the bulk of the structure of a tooth, and enamel is the mineralized, luminous layer that protects the crown of the tooth and gives it its lustrous look. Deep inside the root of the tooth, the third layer of dental pulp provides blood flow, nutrients, and sensation to the tooth in a complex collection of nerves, blood, and connective tissues. The crown of the tooth is the part of the tooth that’s visible, emerging from the gum line. If the enamel layer of the crown of a tooth is disrupted, the dentin is more vulnerable. If the enamel and dentin both break, exposing the pulp, the likelihood of infection increases. It also tends to hurt a whole lot, and you should definitely call your dentist right away.
The immediate goal in such a situation is to save the natural tooth. A full coverage crown is an ideal mechanism for holding together a broken tooth, keeping the pulp protected while providing an attractive, functional replacement structure that can chew and smile just like a natural tooth. Full coverage crowns are also commonly used after root canal treatments, which might be needed if you leave a broken tooth unaddressed and the pulp becomes infected. It’s not only broken teeth that get infected, however. The root canal procedure is also used on teeth that aren’t clearly broken but contain infected pulp. Removing infection and decay tends to weaken existing tooth structure, so the tooth is then capped with a dental crown. This crown restores the shape and structure of the tooth and keeps the inside of the tooth protected, with the goal of preserving as much of the natural tooth structure as possible.
Root canals are just one of the indications for full coverage crowns. When a tooth is substantially decayed, a filling might not be sufficient to hold the tooth together and keep the pulp protected. In these cases, a full coverage crown serves a protective, functional purpose, restoring the appearance and the mechanics of the mouth. If a tooth sustains too much damage and can’t be saved, a crown can also be used to replace the tooth. A dental implant is placed in the jaw, where it fuses with the jawbone and functions like a tooth root, and a crown is affixed to the tip of the implant, creating a lifelike reconstruction of a functioning tooth.
While many of the indications for full coverage crowns are restorative, they can also be used for cosmetic dental procedures, concealing discoloration, damage, or other aesthetic concerns with a perfect porcelain facsimile. There are usually a few different options for repairing such cosmetic issues, so make sure you’re researching all your options if you’re considering a cosmetic fix. Full coverage dental crowns are permanent, which means that if the crown is damaged or falls out, a new crown must be installed – the tooth can no longer function properly, comfortably, or safely without a crown. If you’re simply wondering how to make your teeth whiter or brighter, full coverage dental crowns are probably more than you need; a tooth whitening treatment will suffice. If you already have a full coverage crown, though, it’s important to know that tooth whitening treatments won’t affect a crown, which could make the crown stand out if you do whiten your teeth.
Whether you’re having a root canal, have a major cavity, or simply want a more symmetrical, attractive smile, a full coverage dental crown could be the solution you’re seeking. If your goals are primarily cosmetic, research all your options before you commit to anything. If your goals are more restorative, work closely with your dentist to ensure the function and longevity of your crowns, and don’t forget to play your part in keeping your crowns, your natural teeth, and your entire oral cavity healthy while you admire your bright, even smile.
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