Dental crowns are a great way to restore a damaged tooth. They have many advantages over other treatments. However, there are some disadvantages to crowns that should be taken into consideration when deciding on the best treatment for each patient. This article will discuss the major advantages and disadvantages of dental crowns.
Benefits of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are an effective solution for a wide range of dental issues. They can:
- Support a tooth that has been severely damaged by decay
- Prevent further damage to a worn-out tooth
- Protect a tooth following a root canal procedure
- Hold a cracked or broken tooth tightly together
- Cover a dental implant
- Change the shape or color of a tooth to improve its appearance
Dental crowns can be a long-term solution because they are durable. They usually last at least five to fifteen years, which increases patient satisfaction.
Treatment with dental crowns is more successful than other methods of dental restoration or even no treatment. The use of dental crowns has been proven by numerous scientific studies.
Disadvantages of Dental Crowns
There are some disadvantages to dental crowns. For example, the need to shape the tooth before fitting the crown can be a lengthy and irreversible process.
Some patients experience discomfort after the procedure, including sensitivity to heat or cold. Brushing with toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth can reduce this discomfort. Pain or sensitivity can also occur when biting down. This is usually caused by the crown being too high, which blocks the opposite teeth. This can be easily remedied by adjusting the crown’s height.
Crowns, especially those made from porcelain, can chip. Small chips can be repaired without removing the crown. However, larger or multiple breaks may require the crown to be replaced.
Some patients may have the dental cement that holds the crown in place to wash away. The crown can become loose, allowing bacteria to enter the tooth and cause decay. Sometimes the crown will fall off completely due to an improperly fitted crown or insufficient dental cement. This requires a refit or replacement of the crown.
Occasionally, the porcelain or metals used in crowns can cause an allergic reaction.
Some patients may find dental crowns more expensive than direct tooth restorations. Costs vary depending on the material used.
Weighing the Benefits and Drawbacks
For each patient, the risks and benefits of a dental crown must be weighed to determine the best procedure and recommendation.
A bridge with crowns, for example, is more durable than removable partials for replacing a missing tooth between two healthy teeth. However, if funds are available, it is generally thought that implants are a better option than crowns because they don’t affect healthy adjacent teeth and have a lower risk of infection.
If a patient can afford a dental implant, then this is the best option. Dental crowns and a bridge are a good choice for those who want a more durable but less expensive option.
Consider the purpose of the treatment and choose the most appropriate procedure for the patient.
This post was written by a professional at Elite Dental and Orthodontics. Your partner for Dental Implants El Segundo CA, Elite Dental’s mission is to provide exceptional dental care that brings smiles to life. Whether you’re seeking relief from tooth pain, considering a veneer smile makeover, or require a dental implant, our experienced team is here to guide you on your journey to optimal oral health in Los Angeles, CA.