You find yourself with missing tooth, and you ask — what are my best options to replace this? Many people hear about dental implants or bridges for replacing missing teeth, but did you know that dental crowns are also an excellent option? But what does it mean to have a crown over a missing tooth? The answer varies according to an individual’s situation, and in this article, we will look into how crowns work in tooth restoration, their advantages compared to alternatives, and the materials and longevity of crowns for missing teeth.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap. Crowns are used when a filling will not suffice due to damaging of the tooth or when the tooth needs to be covered, for instance, after a root canal. But what about a whole missing tooth — can a crown take its place? Crowns are frequently used to restore damaged or decayed teeth, whereas they can also be used with implants or bridges to replace missing teeth as well.
What Is a Crown for a Missing Tooth?
A porcelain dental crown alone does not replace a missing tooth. However, crowns are essential to the restoration process when used with dental implants and dental bridges. In such instances, a crown is the visible part of the prosthetic tooth.
Dental Implants: When a tooth is lost, a titanium post (dental implant) is surgically implanted in the jawbone to serve as an artificial tooth root. A crown, designed specifically for you, is then attached to the implant, functioning and appearing like a natural tooth. This is typically seen as the most permanent solution for lost teeth.
Dental Bridges: A bridge consists of a crown on either side of the gap, with a false tooth (pontic) in the space between. The crowns attach the bridge to healthy neighboring teeth.
Crowns themselves cannot replace the root structure, but they are essential for completing a full, functional, and aesthetic restoration.
What Are Crowns Made Out Of?
Crowns can be fabricated from many materials depending on the location of the tooth, your aesthetic goals and the needs of the restoration. Here are the most common materials:
- Porcelain: Looks natural and best for front teeth where aesthetics matters most.
- Ceramic: A little more durable than porcelain but still more than suitable for front teeth, ceramic crowns are used for both your front and back teeth.
- Metal (Gold or Silver): Metal crowns are strong and long-lasting but are typically used for back teeth where they will not be seen.
- Zirconia: A super strong, durable material that has the look of porcelain and the strength of metal, making it a great choice for both front and back teeth.
Every material has its benefits, depending on whether aesthetic, durability or cost is your main focus.
How Long Does a Crown Last?
How long does a crown last depends mostly on the material that was used and the type of care it receives. Typically, dental crowns last anywhere from 10 to 15 years. But this may vary according to factors like:
- The material of the crown
- Oral hygiene practices (frequency of brushing, flossing, etc.)
- Diet (no hard or sticky foods)
- Overall dental health
Crowns can typically last for years when they are well-taken care of, providing both functional and aesthetic support.
What Are the Advantages of Dental Crowns for Missing Teeth?
When used to restore a missing tooth as part of an implant, a dental crown has a variety of advantages. Some of the most notable benefits stands out to be the fact that crowns are ideal for creating the restoration of a tooth.
- Restores Functionality
Crowns return the natural functionality of a tooth, so you can chew, bite, and talk without difficulty. Crowns attached to implants or bridges allow you to enjoy your favourite foods without worrying about gaps in your smile.
- Enhances Aesthetics
Crowns are custom-made to suit the colour, shape, and size of your present teeth, resulting in a natural appearance. This is particularly relevant with front teeth, where appearance is a priority.
- Long-lasting Solution
Because they are made to resist the force of chewing and biting, dental crowns are a long-term answer. With good care, crowns can last 10-15 years or longer, depending on the type of material used and your hygiene behaviors.
- Protects Surrounding Teeth
Crown stabilise and protect adjacent teeth in case of dental bridges. Crowns also protect compromised teeth from more damage and decay.
- Minimal Maintenance
After placing the crown, it needs very little maintenance compared to other options like dentures or partial dentures. Crowns can last for many years with little effort, given that oral hygiene is followed properly.
What Other Options Are There Than Dental Crowns to Replace a Lost Tooth?
Apart from being an impeccable way to replace the missing tooth, dental crowns may or may not be the perfect answer for everyone. Other options may apply better to your scenario. Alternatives to Dental Crowns for Replacing Missing Tooth:
- Dental Implants
When it comes to replacing missing teeth, dental implants are often viewed as the best long-term and most durable solution. In contrast to crowns, which cover a natural tooth or post, implants replace the root and the crown of a lost tooth. A titanium post is inserted in the jawbone and a crown on top. Implants offer better stability and the ability to function as normal and maintain bone structure.
- Dental Bridges
These include dental bridges, which are used to replace missing teeth by placing crowns on adjacent teeth to support a false tooth (the pontic) in between. It’s less invasive than implants but may not last as long.
- Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are removable devices that replace multiple missing teeth. They are cheaper than crowns or implants but can be less comfy and stable.
- Flipper Teeth
Dental Flipper is a temporary and removable dental device that is used to replace a missing tooth. They are generally a temporary fix until you are restored with something more permanent, such as a crown or an implant.
Crowns vs Other Tooth Replacement Options
| Tooth Replacement Option | Procedure | Longevity | Cost | Appearance | Functionality |
| Dental Crown | Custom-made, placed over a prepared tooth | 10-15 years | Moderate to High | Very natural-looking | Fully restores chewing and speaking |
| Dental Implants | Titanium post placed in the jaw, topped with a crown | 20+ years | High | Highly natural-looking | Restores full function, mimics natural tooth root |
| Dental Bridges | Prosthetic supported by adjacent teeth | 5-10 years | Moderate | Matches natural teeth | Limited chewing capacity compared to a crown |
| Partial Dentures | Removable appliance supported by remaining teeth | 5-10 years | Low to Moderate | Can look natural but less so than crowns | Restores some functionality, but not as stable |
| Flipper Teeth | Temporary, removable appliance | 1-2 years | Low | Can look natural but not as sturdy | Limited functionality, temporary solution |
Albany Creek Dental + Crowns: Why Choose Us?
We are a dental practice that prides itself on providing quality dentistry for unique needs of our customers. When you need a crown for implant procedure or even a bridge for missing teeth, the team of experienced specialists will help you in every aspect of the procedure. That is why we employ the latest in techniques and materials to create not just functional, but beautiful dental crowns.
With our advanced technology and your comfort in mind, we are a perfect match for your tooth restoration procedure. Call Albany Creek Dental now to book a consultation and learn how a crown can help you restore your smile.
Read More: Can a Cracked Tooth Be Covered with a Crown? Answer from Albany Creek’s Dental Experts
References
- Australian Dental Association —
- Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry — its research focused on the longevity and effectiveness of restorative dentistry.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can a dental crown be used for saving your missing tooth?
No, a crown will not replace a missing tooth on its own. Nonetheless, when a missing tooth is replaced with a dental implant supported with a crown or a bridge, a crown can be used to recover the tooth.
2. How long do crowns last?
It all comes down to the material of the crown and how well you take care of your mouth, but crowns usually last 10–15 years.
3. What is the difference between dental crown and dental implant?
Dental crowns are the most visible part of a tooth replacement system and used in conjunction with implants or bridges. When it comes to restoring a missing tooth, a dental implant is the most comprehensive choice since it replaces the tooth root and the visible tooth itself, resulting in a solid and long-lasting solution.
4. Does insurance cover crowns?
Crowns are typically covered under dental insurance plans, particularly if necessary for restorative purposes. Check with your insurer for specific coverage details.
5. Does the crown procedure hurt?
The crown procedure is usually not painful as local anaesthesia is used to numb the area. Most patients feel very little pain during the procedure.
6. How do I care for my crown?
Regular brushing and flossing, as well as regular check-ups with your Dentist Albany Creek , will help you get the most you can out of your crown. Do not bite hard things to avoid damaging your teeth.