A damaged or weak tooth will inevitably get worse if there is not anything to protect it. Some individuals have weakened enamel. Others may have tooth damage such as tooth decay or chipped teeth. Individuals who have a desire to preserve their natural teeth should consider dental crowns. This restorative option can also be used to correct discolorations and misshapen teeth. The following points highlight helpful things to know about dental crowns and whether they might be right for you.

What is a dental crown?

The best way to understand how a crown works is to think of it as a semi-permanent tooth covering. Dentists use sophisticated techniques to create crowns and a bonding technique that secures them in place. This ensures a customized fit for each tooth they create crowns for. Individuals have a few materials to choose from. Porcelain and metal are common choices. Porcelain crowns mimic the appearance of natural teeth and are a good option for individuals with allergies to metal. Individuals can choose metal crowns that have a porcelain overlay if they do not have allergies and want the strength of metal without it being obvious they have crowns. 

Are all teeth suitable for crowns?

Dental crowns can cover the entire surface of a tooth or the edges of a tooth. The type of crown selected will depend on what issue needs to be restored. A crown installed around the perimeter of a tooth is suitable for teeth at the front of the mouth that have imperfections such as chipped or misshapen. A full-surface crown is ideal for decay and discolorations. These may occur with teeth at the front of the mouth or the molars.

A key thing that dentists consider before recommending crowns is the integrity of the root of the teeth. Intact roots aid to ensure that crowns will last a long time and there is a reduced risk of tooth loss. Crowns can last many years. Dentists will assess whether individuals have habits such as tooth grinding that could damage their crowns. If so, a mouthguard might be prescribed to protect the integrity of the crowns. 

A dentist is a good resource to use to learn more about dental crowns. They can perform examinations and determine if you are a good fit for this restorative option. Sometimes there are other procedures such as root canals that need to be done prior to the placement of dental crowns. Advancements in dental technology have made it possible for individuals to get same-day crowns.

For more information on dental crowns, contact a professional near you.