Comprehensive dental exams look for signs of damaged, missing, or decayed teeth and help to determine if crowns can provide a solution. A dental crown or tooth cap can be placed on the front teeth to restore function or aesthetics.
Some crowns can be studier than others. Because the front teeth aren’t subjected to too much pressure compared to the back teeth or molars, porcelain crowns offer a durable and lasting option.
The lifespan of crowns on front teeth can be between 5 and 15 years, depending on the amount of wear and tear, material, and how well you maintain them.
What Is a Dental Crown?
Over time, teeth can weaken, wear down, crack, or stain and may benefit from a crown. Sometimes, a large cavity too big for a filling may also require dental restoration with a crown.
Other reasons why you may need a dental crown include:
- Protecting a weak tooth by keeping it together or preventing it from breaking if parts of the tooth are cracked
- Restoring an already broken tooth or a severely worn down tooth
- Supporting the tooth if not much of the tooth remains
- Holding a dental bridge in place
- Covering a misshapen or severely discoloured tooth
- Covering a dental implant
- Covering a tooth treated with a root canal
A crown covers an entire tooth and helps prevent further damage to the tooth, restore its shape, size, and strength, and improve its appearance. Materials used to make crowns include:
- Porcelain
- Ceramic
- Zirconia
- Metal
- Composite resin
If you need a dental crown, your dentist might consider the following when selecting the material:
- Tooth location
- How much of the tooth is visible when you smile
- Position of your gum tissue
- The function of the tooth
- How much natural tooth remains
- Colour of the surrounding teeth
Dental Crown Procedure
A dental crown procedure can be a multi-day or same-day procedure. The multi-day crown procedure includes an examination, prepping the tooth, making impressions, and placing a temporary crown at the first appointment. At the second appointment, your dentist will cement the permanent crown to your teeth.
If you prefer same-day crowns, CEREC crowns can be crafted on-site using a digital 3D image in around 15 minutes. CEREC crowns don’t require a temporary crown, and your appointment may take about 2 hours. These crowns are made from durable, natural-looking composite, glass, zirconia, or ceramic material.
A CEREC crown procedure involves:
- A local anesthetic
- Filing down your tooth to allow the crown to fit
- Creating a crown matching the colour of your surrounding teeth
- Placing the crown and checking the fit and bite are accurate and comfortable
- Bonding the crown in place
How Strong Are Crowns on Front Teeth?
Since the front teeth don’t undergo as much pressure as the back teeth, crowns on the front teeth, on average, can last 5 to 15 years. However, the following factors can affect how long a crown on the front teeth lasts:
- Grinding or clenching your teeth
- Chewing ice
- Biting your fingernails
- Using your teeth to open packages
Caring for Dental Crowns
Caring for your dental crown can prevent chipping, cracking, and damage. The following measures can prolong a crown’s life:
- Practice good oral hygiene. Brush twice daily, floss daily, and use toothpaste for sensitive teeth if you have sensitivity to cold or heat.
- Avoid biting or chewing on hard foods like ice or pens to prevent cracking porcelain crowns.
- Ask your dentist for a night guard if you grind or clench your teeth at night, as it can protect your crown and the surrounding teeth from wear.
- Avoid foods or drinks that can stain your teeth. Porcelain crowns don’t stain easily, but if adjacent teeth stain, it can make the crown stand out.
Reclaim Your Smile with Same-Day Crowns
Dental crowns offer the look of natural-looking teeth that are comfortable and can restore your smile. With proper care, they are a long-lasting solution to many dental problems.
If you’re looking for a solution for a damaged, weakened tooth or have a large dental filling, same-day CEREC crowns are convenient. Book an appointment with Palermo Village Dental to discuss your options.
