Dental Crowns: Your Most Common Questions Answered

Ever damaged a tooth, got it repaired, and later protected by a dental crown? If yes, you already know how this tiny cap can save a tooth from further damage — and if not, it’s time to learn. So, what is a crown on your tooth, and why do dentists recommend it so often? Let’s explore everything you need to know about dental crowns, from their purpose and types to how they help restore your smile.

What Are Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns are custom-made from porcelain, metal, or composite resin, which helps them feel natural. They’re used for protecting jagged teeth , serving as a durable and long-lasting solution. Want to know which tooth crown will be suitable for your case?

Types of Dental Crowns and Cost in NZ

Each tooth cap comes with its own benefits, suited for different dental conditions and preferences. Some offer durability and are preferred for molars to handle hard chewing. Others offer aesthetics and are suitable for visible areas. Understanding these differences will help you make an informed decision about which crown will best restore your smile.

Metal Crowns

These crowns are made up of nickel or chromium, offering high durability, chewing strength, and resistance to wear. However, they have poor aesthetics, which is why they’re used for back teeth.

Porcelain-Fused-To-Metal (PFM) Crowns

PFM crowns offer durability with natural aesthetics. They’re made with a metal shell and covered with a layer of tooth-colored porcelain. These crowns can appear slightly opaque compared to natural teeth, and you can see a thin, dark line at the gum line where the metal shows.

All-Ceramic or All-Porcelain Crowns

These crowns are purely made from ceramic or porcelain material. They’re known for offering great aesthetics. Among them, zirconia seems to stand out as a popular choice. Zirconia crowns are a combination of exceptional strength, durability, and natural aesthetics. Making them suitable for both front and back teeth. Since they are made from all-ceramic, they’re more expensive than other crowns.

All-Resin Crowns

All-resin crowns are the most affordable option, made from composite resin material, blending perfectly with your natural teeth color. They are often used as a temporary crown for patients, as they are vulnerable to damage and have a lifespan of 3 to 5 years.

On average, dental crowns in New Zealand cost around $1200 to $2500. Front tooth crown cost in NZ with porcelain or ceramic material is more expensive than with metal crowns. However, the types of dental crowns and cost vary depending on many factors such as the dentist's location, the extent of damage or decay, and the type of material used. There are also patients’ issues. Such as patients allergic to metal cannot go for simple, durable metal crowns. Let's address some of your questions to eliminate the confusion.

Common Questions

When it comes to understanding what is a crown on your tooth, patients have different questions. From the process of getting a crown to the alternatives available. Let's walk through some of the common questions before getting a dental crown.

What Is the Process of Getting a Crown?

There are four steps to the dental procedure, starting with cleaning or reshaping the tooth. If the infection is not cleaned out properly, it will deteriorate the health of the teeth in the long run. Once the tooth is ready, an impression is taken to design your custom crown. A temporary crown is placed to cover the tooth, and a permanent crown is made in the dental lab to replace the temporary one. Finally, the permanent crown is fixed on your tooth and adjusted to your bite.

How Long Do Crowns Last, and What Affects Their Life Span?

The life of a crown depends on its material (porcelain, ceramic, or metal) and how well you care for it. For example, ensuring good oral hygiene and keeping them safe from bad subconscious habits like teeth grinding.

What if My Crown Falls or Causes Sensitivity?

Never delay in such situations; call your dentist immediately. Only a professional can attach the crown safely if it falls out. However, the cold sensations are normal at first, but if you’re experiencing an ongoing pain or discomfort, it's important to contact your orthodontist right away.

Are There Any Alternatives to a Crown?

Alternatives can always be found, such as veneers, braces, or fillings. But it depends on your dental condition. With modern technology, it is now way easier to enhance your smile. Explore how to close gaps between teeth without braces? to discover a more comfortable option.

Once you’ve consulted your dentist, you will know the underlying cause of your dental damage. Every treatment works best when chosen for the right purpose. Let's discuss some of the signs that indicate you need a dental crown for your dental needs.

Signs You Need a Dental Crown

This can include cracks, decay, fillings, and sensitivities. But a solution to every dental problem is not a tooth crown. Here is where you need to have a crown.

Damage & Decay

There are several cases of damage and decay, for which a dental crown can be useful. For example, a fractured tooth is always vulnerable to infection or further damage, which is why it is better to have proper protection. Similarly, when tooth decay causes a cavity too large for a standard filling, a crown will help to restore its stability and strength.

Worn-down teeth can also regain their original shape and function through crown restoration. Most cases with extensive damage because of decay or trauma will need a reliable and long-lasting solution for complete restoration, like a dental crown.

Function & Sensitivity

Persistent tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold foods, and discomfort while chewing or biting can all be signs of weak tooth structure. This would often require support from the dental crown to restore proper function and relieve discomfort.

Aesthetic Concerns

Suppose your smile's appearance is asymmetric due to an uneven or broken tooth. It can be immensely improved with the help of a crown.

Final Thoughts

Dental crowns are mostly used for serious dental cases. They’re known for protection, support, restoration of tooth structure, longevity, and cosmetic improvement. Patients have different preferences, such as many would want to know the front tooth crown cost for supreme aesthetics or the back tooth crown cost for better stability. These cases are not as simple as they look; they can be way more complex, and a dentist’s recommendation is crucial. In a nutshell, never attempt to address your dental issues on your own; consult a professional for the best type of crown, and maintain good hygiene for long-lasting results.

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