An artificial restoration that fits over the remaining part of a tooth, a crown (also known as a cap) makes the tooth stronger and take the shape of a natural tooth. A crown is the ideal way to repair teeth that have been broken or been weakened by decay.
A crown can be used for a number of reasons which include:
- Discoloured fillings
- Protect a root filling
- Hold a bridge or denture firmly in place
Crowns can be made of different material and bonded in many different ways. The 4 most popular materials include:
Porcelain
Crowns are made entirely out of porcelain and are not as strong as bonded crowns but can look natural and hence most often used for front teeth.
All-Ceramic
A modern technique that offers a metal free (precious metals) alternative. Ceramics can give the same strength of a bonded crown and the appearance of a porcelain crown and can therefore be used in all areas of the mouth
Glass
A crown that looks very natural and can be used anywhere in the mouth.
Precious Metal
Gold, silver and platinum being one of the oldest filling materials, it is today used with other metal alloys to increase its strength making it very hard-wearing.
Birch Dental Practice has the restorative skills to use any material to bring that smile back. Contact us for further information on how we can help you.