According to statistics, the global market for dental crowns and bridges was worth $3.32 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow by 8.2% annually from 2025 to 2030. This growth is mainly due to more people experiencing dental problems, like tooth decay and gum disease, which need treatments like crowns and bridges.
With more people facing these dental issues, crowns have become essential. They aren’t just fancy caps; they restore the strength and appearance of damaged teeth. Whether you’re dealing with a cracked tooth or want to brighten your smile, crowns provide a practical solution. Let’s explore the answer to: “What is a crown in your teeth?” and how they can keep your teeth healthy and strong.
What Is a Crown on a Tooth and How Does It Work?
A dental crown functions like a protective cover for a tooth that’s weak or damaged. It’s a cap that restores the tooth’s shape, size, and function. Fitting snugly over the entire tooth protects the structure and helps with biting and chewing. Crowns are crafted to look and feel like natural teeth, making them a great option for restoring both strength and appearance.
Types of Dental Crowns
Available in various materials, dental crowns offer unique benefits tailored to individual needs and specific placements.
| Type of Crown | Description | Best For |
| Gold Crowns | Durable and often made from gold alloy or base metal alloys. | Out-of-sight molars |
| Porcelain Crowns | Natural appearance, ideal for front teeth. | Front teeth |
| Ceramic Crowns | Enamel-like look, perfect for those with metal allergies. | Both front and back teeth |
| Stainless Steel Crowns | Temporary solutions, commonly used for children. | Pediatric dentistry |
| Porcelain Fused to Metal | Combines metal strength with a porcelain exterior for a natural look. | Both front and back teeth |
| Zirconia Crowns | Strong and visually appealing, offering durability and aesthetic charm. | Any tooth |
Common Reasons for Getting a Dental Crown
Dental crowns are versatile solutions that address a variety of dental problems:
- Repairing a Cracked or Damaged Tooth: If a tooth suffers from a crack or damage, a crown can bring back its strength and prevent further complications.
- Enhancing Appearance: For teeth that are discolored or misshapen, crowns provide a cosmetic upgrade, offering a more appealing smile.
- Supporting a Tooth After Root Canal: Post-root canal, a tooth may become fragile. A crown helps protect it and restore normal function.
- Replacing Large Fillings: A tooth with a large filling benefits from a crown, as it provides additional support by covering and protecting the remaining structure.
- Part of a Dental Bridge: Crowns serve as anchors for dental bridges, filling gaps left by missing teeth and restoring your bite.
- Protecting a Weak Tooth: In cases where teeth are weakened by decay or wear, crowns shield them from potential damage.
- Fixing a Broken Tooth: If a tooth breaks, a crown can restore its shape and functionality, allowing you to chew comfortably again.
- Part of a Dental Implant: Crowns are placed on implants to replace missing teeth, providing a fully functional and natural-looking restoration.
The Dental Crown Procedure With CEREC Technology
Traditional dental crowns often require multiple visits, but CEREC technology allows us to restore your tooth in just one appointment, eliminating the need for temporary crowns and messy impressions.
CEREC stands for Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics. This innovative method quickly repairs damaged teeth with high-quality, tooth-colored ceramic for a natural-looking result.
Let’s explore how the CEREC process transforms your dental restoration experience.
Step 1: Digital Scan
A high-tech camera captures a precise 3D image of your tooth. This digital scan provides an accurate representation, essential for creating a well-fitted restoration. Unlike traditional methods that use uncomfortable trays and materials, this step is quick, clean, and comfortable, offering a detailed digital model of your tooth structure.
Step 2: Custom Design
Using advanced CAD software, a custom restoration is designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. This phase makes sure that the restoration matches the exact shape, color, and alignment of your original tooth, enhancing both its function and aesthetics. The software allows for real-time adjustments, making sure the design perfectly aligns with your bite and facial features, improving comfort and appearance.
Step 3: On-Site Milling
Once the design is finalized, a state-of-the-art milling machine crafts the restoration on-site from a durable, tooth-colored ceramic block. This precision milling process guarantees that the crown, inlay, or onlay has the strength and durability to withstand daily use. By performing this step in-office, we eliminate the waiting period associated with traditional crowns, providing immediate results.
Step 4: Final Placement
After milling, the restoration undergoes final fitting and any necessary adjustments for perfect comfort and function. The custom restoration is then firmly bonded to your tooth using high-quality dental cement, providing a strong, stable fit. This final step not only restores the tooth’s function but also makes sure it looks natural and feels comfortable, allowing you to leave the appointment with a fully restored smile.
Pros and Cons of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns provide a reliable solution for tooth restoration, but like any treatment, they come with both advantages and disadvantages.
Pros
- Durability and Longevity: Dental crowns, crafted from durable materials like porcelain, ceramic, or metal, are known for their strength and long-lasting nature. They withstand daily biting and chewing, providing protection for your teeth over the years.
- Enhances the Look of Natural Teeth: Designed to blend smoothly with your natural teeth, crowns enhance the appearance of your smile. Whether you choose porcelain or ceramic, crowns offer a natural look that enhances your confidence and aesthetic appeal.
- Protection Against Further Decay or Breakage: By encasing the entire tooth, crowns offer a protective barrier against decay and physical damage. Particularly beneficial for teeth that have had extensive work, like root canals or large fillings, they help keep them intact and functional.
Cons
- Cost Considerations: Dental crowns can be more expensive compared to other dental treatments, like fillings. The cost varies based on the material and complexity of the procedure, but many find the investment worthwhile given the durability and aesthetic benefits crowns provide.
- Reduction of Tooth Structure: Fitting a crown involves removing some of the natural tooth structure. This is necessary to make sure that the crown sits comfortably and securely, but it may be a consideration for those concerned about preserving their original tooth structure.
- Potential Sensitivity: Some patients may have increased sensitivity to cold or hot temperatures following the placement of a dental crown. This can occur if the tooth nerve is affected during the procedure or if the fit of the crown isn’t perfect, though it often diminishes over time.
How to Care for a Dental Crown
Caring for a dental crown is essential for its longevity and for maintaining your oral health. Here are some steps to help you keep your crown in excellent condition:
Daily Oral Hygiene
Consistent brushing and flossing are essential. Utilize a soft brush and a non-abrasive toothpaste to clean around the crown, preventing plaque buildup gently. Floss daily to remove food particles and maintain healthy gums, paying particular attention to the area around the crown to avoid irritation.
Mind Your Diet
Steer clear of hard or sticky foods that might stress or dislodge the crown. Chewing on ice, hard candies, or nuts can cause chips or cracks. Instead, opt for softer foods and distribute biting forces evenly across your teeth to reduce strain on the crown.
Regular Dental Visits
Regular checks with your dentist help monitor the condition of your crown. These visits allow early identification of any issues, ensuring the crown stays secure and functional. Professional cleanings also help maintain oral hygiene and crown integrity.
Protect Against Grinding
If you grind your teeth at night, a mouthguard is worth considering. Grinding can wear down both natural teeth and crowns, reducing their lifespan. A custom-fitted mouthguard provides a protective barrier, safeguarding your dental work.
Dental Crowns vs. Fillings and Veneers
When considering restorative dental options, it’s essential to understand how crowns, fillings, and veneers differ. Each has its own purpose, and the right choice depends on your dental needs.
| Aspect | Crowns | Fillings | Veneers |
| Coverage | Encase the entire tooth, providing full protection and support. | Fill cavities with composite resin, addressing only small areas of decay. | Cover only the front surface of teeth to enhance appearance. |
| Best For | Ideal for severely damaged, broken, or decayed teeth. | Suitable for small to medium cavities. | Perfect for cosmetic improvements and minor imperfections. |
| Durability | Highly durable, offering long-term strength for weakened teeth. | Durable but typically not as long-lasting as crowns; it depends on the cavity’s size. | Durable for cosmetic changes but not for structural support. |
| Aesthetics | Can match natural tooth appearance, though more noticeable than veneers. | Blends with natural tooth color, though can wear or discolor over time. | Highly aesthetic, often indistinguishable from natural teeth. |
| Procedure | Requires tooth preparation and multiple dental visits for crafting and fitting. | Usually completed in a single visit; less invasive than crowns. | Requires minimal tooth alteration; typically involves multiple visits. |
| Cost | Generally more costly due to materials and complexity. | More affordable, depending on the number of cavities treated. | Costs vary based on materials but can be similar to or greater than crowns. |
Understanding these differences helps you and your dentist decide the best restorative option for your specific situation, balancing aesthetics, function, and cost.
Secure a Stronger Smile Today: Call Us!
Want your smile to shine like never before? At Elice Dental Care, our dental crowns with CEREC Technology can protect and enhance your teeth with exceptional results. Whether you’re dealing with a decayed tooth or seeking a fresh, cosmetic upgrade, we’re ready to assist you.
Reach out to us to explore your best dental options. We provide personalized treatment to make your smile truly sparkle. Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward a healthier, more brilliant smile. Contact us to experience our friendly and expert care.
