A tooth cover is a custom-made shell that fits over a damaged or weakened tooth. Dentists usually call it a crown. It restores the tooth's shape, size & strength while sealing it off from bacteria & further wear. Instead of leaving a compromised tooth exposed, the cover takes on the load of daily chewing as well as spreads pressure evenly across the tooth.

When a Tooth Needs Covering

Dentists recommend this treatment in several situations. A large cavity may leave too little natural structure to hold a filling. A tooth that has cracked or fractured can split further under bite pressure. After a root canal, the tooth becomes more brittle, so a covering helps prevent breakage. It is also used to anchor a bridge, finish a dental implant or improve a tooth that is badly worn or misshapen. Restore your smile with a dental crown in Whyalla-Schedule your visit today!

How It Protects the Tooth

The main job of a tooth cover is to hold the tooth together. When a crack runs through enamel or dentin, the shell wraps around the entire visible portion, keeping the pieces from separating. It also blocks bacteria from reaching the inner layers, which lowers the risk of new decay or infection beneath the surface. For teeth that have worn down from grinding, the covering rebuilds the chewing surface so the bite stays balanced.

Materials in Use Today

Zirconia & lithium disilicate ceramics are now the most common choices. Zirconia is very strong as well as suits back teeth that take heavy force. Lithium disilicate is slightly more translucent, so it blends well on front teeth. Metal alloys, including gold, are still used for patients who grind their teeth, since they wear evenly & rarely chip. Porcelain fused to metal remains available but is chosen less often than before.

Modern Trends in Dentistry

Digital scanning has largely replaced the trays of putty used for impressions. A small camera captures the prepared tooth as well as software designs the shape on screen. Many practices now mill the restoration in-house, which can cut treatment to a single visit instead of two. Dentists also prepare less tooth structure than they once did, keeping more of the natural tooth underneath. Bonding techniques have improved as well, giving a tighter seal at the edge where the covering meets the tooth.

Caring for a Covered Tooth

The covering itself cannot decay, but the natural tooth beneath it can. Brush twice a day, clean between teeth daily & pay attention to the gumline, where bacteria collect. Avoid chewing ice, hard candy or packaging with your teeth. If you clench or grind at night, ask about a night guard to protect the restoration. With good habits as well as regular checkups, a well-fitted crown often lasts 10 to 15 years or longer.

Talking to Your Dentist

Not every damaged tooth needs full coverage. Smaller problems may be handled with a filling, inlay or onlay. An examination & X-rays will show how much healthy tooth remains as well as whether a crown is the right option.

Author Bio:-

Ansley has 12 years of experience in the dental world. You can find his thoughts at childrens dentistry blog.