Bruxism, more commonly known as teeth grinding, is a common condition that affects millions of people, and one that can do serious harm to your teeth, gums and overall dental health. Many people grind their teeth in their sleep, while many others grind their teeth during the day, especially when suffering from anxiety or stress.
If bruxism has done visible damage to one or more of your teeth, it may make you self-conscious or lose confidence when you talk, smile and laugh. Cosmetic dentists can take a number of approaches to fix cosmetic damage caused by bruxism, and fitting a porcelain crown to the damaged tooth is one of the most effective repair options.
How Do Porcelain Crowns Work?
Dental crowns are a type of dental prostheses, which are fitted over damaged teeth. They are designed to mimic the look of a natural, healthy tooth, and high-quality dental crowns fitted by a skilled cosmetic dentist look indistinguishable from 'real' teeth.
Porcelain crowns are particularly useful for repairing damage and wear caused by bruxism. Because the crown covers the entirety of the tooth, it will mask any signs of cracking, worn enamel or discolouration caused by teeth grinding. The crown itself also provides the damaged tooth with added protection and strength, preventing damage that may be caused by future episodes of bruxism.
Before a porcelain crown can be fitted to your damaged tooth, your cosmetic dentist will first remove a layer of outer enamel from the tooth, shaping it so the crown fits snugly. The crown is then fixed in place using strong, long-lasting dental adhesives.
What Other Options Are Available For Repairing Bruxism Damage?
Porcelain crowns are generally considered the gold standard of crowns because porcelain has a very similar appearance to natural tooth enamel. It is also very strong and durable and will be capable of withstanding pressure caused by further teeth grinding.
However, porcelain crowns are more expensive than other options. Composite crowns made from resin are significantly cheaper and can be fitted more quickly than porcelain crowns. They have a slightly less convincing appearance than porcelain crowns, and are not quite as durable, but may be the best solution if you cannot afford porcelain or need to repair a less visible tooth.
Another cost-effective option is the porcelain-fused-to-metal crown. These crowns are made from an inner core of non-toxic metal, which is covered with a thin layer of porcelain. Though still not quite as convincing as all-porcelain crowns, they look more natural than composite crowns and are still less expensive than all-porcelain. They are also extremely durable, and if the porcelain cover is damaged, it can be repaired or replaced without removing the whole crown.
Contact a cosmetic dentistry practice to learn more.