What Are Tooth Caps?

Dentists have solutions for anyone wanting to restore an imperfect tooth. For example, dentists can suggest a dental veneer which is a porcelain shell that is applied permanently over the surface of the original tooth to make it appear to be perfect. However, when a dental veneer can't be used, a tooth cap is an option. A tooth cap is different from a veneer because it's not a porcelain shell.

Tooth Caps Definition

• A tooth cap is actually known as a dental crown. The dental crown is a tooth-shaped cover that is used to cover one worn, decayed, chipped or broken tooth. Therefore, a person may use more than one dental crown if he has more than one tooth that must be covered. The dental crown can be used on one tooth or to keep a bridge in place.

Reasons for Tooth Caps

• The reason for an individual wanting a dental crown or a dentist suggesting a client obtain one depends on the circumstances. However, according to Animated Teeth, there are three main reasons why a person obtains a dental crown. One reason is to strength the original tooth. When a tooth is broken or tooth, it is susceptible to erosion and decay. This means that tooth will eventually have to be removed. Another reason is to restore the original shape of the tooth. A dental crown also improves your appearance because when you smile, the worn or broken tooth will be covered.

Tooth Caps Material

• The dental crown is made of three basic of materials. Usually, a tooth cap is made of a dental ceramic material called porcelain. The porcelain resembles the original tooth. Therefore, no one can tell that an individual has a dental crown. Another option is metal material such as gold which is usually used for a tooth located in the back of the mouth for different reasons. For example, it doesn't resemble tooth enamel and is noticeable. Another reason is durability. For instance, anyone with parafunctional habits like grinding teeth may choose a gold tooth cap. A combination of metal and porcelain crown is also used. The combination is stronger and can support the original structure of the tooth. One drawback for the porcelain-fused-to metal crown is that the metal is located toward the gun line. Thus, when the gum line starts receding, the metal shows.

Tooth Caps Procedures and Cost

• A dental crown takes approximately two visits to the dentist. During the first visit a mold, or impression, of the person's tooth must be made. This is to discover the exact shape of the crown should appear. The dental crown is then created in a dental laboratory. During the seconds visit, a person may receive a temporary dental crown to wear until the permanent tooth cap is finished. Once the dental crown is ready, the cap is placed over the original tooth and cemented. If there are any adjustments needed, a dentist makes them during that visit or a later visit. The cost of a tooth cap depends on factors such as the treatment need and dentist expertise. However, as of April 2010, the average cost of a dental crown is $1,000 to $3,500, according to Consumer Guide to Dentistry.