What does tooth look like under crown?
Crown restoration is a common dental procedure that involves covering a tooth with a custom-made cap to protect and restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. The crown itself is designed to fit over the entire visible portion of the tooth, encasing it and providing a strong, durable surface. But what exactly does the tooth look like beneath this protective layer?
Underneath the crown, the natural tooth structure remains largely intact. The tooth root, which anchors the tooth in the jawbone, is still present and continues to provide support. The pulp chamber, which contains the tooth’s nerve and blood vessels, is also preserved. However, the visible crown, which is exposed above the gum line, may have been compromised due to decay, fracture, or other dental issues.
The tooth structure beneath the crown is typically made up of three layers:
1. Enamel: The outermost layer of the tooth, enamel is the hardest substance in the human body. It provides a protective barrier against bacteria and wear. Under the crown, the enamel may have been damaged or eroded, but the crown serves to shield the remaining enamel from further harm.
2. Dentin: Located beneath the enamel, dentin is a softer, more porous material that makes up the bulk of the tooth. It is responsible for the tooth’s strength and structure. When a tooth is crowned, the dentist may need to remove a small amount of dentin to accommodate the crown’s fit. However, the majority of the dentin is preserved.
3. Pulp: At the center of the tooth, the pulp contains the tooth’s nerve and blood vessels. The pulp is vital for the tooth’s health and function. When a tooth is crowned, the pulp is often protected by the crown, as it is sealed off from external stimuli.
It’s important to note that the appearance of the tooth beneath the crown can vary depending on the type of crown used. There are several types of crowns available, including:
– Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns: These crowns have a metal substructure covered with porcelain, providing a strong, natural-looking restoration.
– All-ceramic crowns: Made entirely of ceramic, these crowns offer a more natural appearance and are ideal for front teeth.
– Gold crowns: Known for their strength and durability, gold crowns are often used for back teeth.
– Porcelain crowns: Similar to all-ceramic crowns, porcelain crowns provide a natural-looking restoration.
In conclusion, what does tooth look like under crown? The natural tooth structure, including the root, pulp, and most of the dentin, remains intact. The crown itself serves as a protective layer, preserving the remaining tooth structure and restoring the tooth’s function and appearance.
