In dental practice, dental crowns are used to restore the chewing function of a damaged tooth. The problem may arise due to the development of caries and other pathological diseases.
Of the features
The crown is structurally made in the form of a cap of small dimensions; it is placed over the destroyed formation in the oral cavity. All kinds of raw materials are used in production:
- zirconium;
- ceramics;
- metal.
The final cost of the products described depends on this. The main difference between crowns and other methods in prosthetics is the ability to preserve the root, which subsequently acts as a strong support for the artificial element. This method of tooth preservation entails minimal trauma compared to restoration with implants.
Significant advantages and features
The use of crowns is inevitable in cases of severely damaged teeth that cannot be restored using known therapeutic methods. Indications for their use:
- the enamel becomes pathologically thinner;
- the coronal zone is damaged by more than 50%;
- presence of fluorosis;
- the dental unit has defects that are acquired over time or are natural.
In practice, contraindications regarding the installation of prostheses for a person are taken into account. We are talking about increased tooth mobility, obvious malocclusion, and allergies to the material from which the crowns are created. Manipulation is prohibited by the minimum height of the coronal part and thinned plates. In the presence of such conditions, the dentist selects alternative methods of prosthetics.
Varieties
Crowns are usually divided taking into account the materials that serve as the raw material base for them. For example, metal products are used in the case of finishing a chewing tooth. A distinctive feature is extreme strength, resistance to corrosion, and affordable cost. The nuance is represented by minimal aesthetics.
Metal-ceramic devices are made of a kind of metal frame, on top of which ceramics are applied in a thin layer. They demonstrate aesthetics and sufficient strength, and are optimal for treating anterior and posterior teeth.
Plastic elements are short-lived and wear out after 1-1.5 years. They are used as a temporary measure in order to ensure high-quality production of a permanent structure.
Ceramic crowns demonstrate absolute biocompatibility with all tissues in the mouth and can be selected according to the shade that is as close as possible to natural teeth. Upon completion of all manipulations, the piece construction is almost invisible visually. The disadvantage is increased fragility, so ceramics are not acceptable for chewing teeth.
Metal-free devices contain lithium disilicate or zirconium dioxide. With their help, the integrity of the damaged dental unit is completely restored, maximum aesthetics is ensured, and the duration of use reaches 20 years. Feature – high cost.
The basis of metal-plastic products includes a reliable metal frame and an acrylic reinforcing coating. Food coloring should be used with caution with these items.
The optimal version of the future prosthesis is selected individually, taking into account a number of indicators. So in the front part it is better to place metal ceramics or ceramics. For back teeth, zirconium dioxide or metal is more suitable.