How is a resin crown made?
Resin crowns are constructed from composite material which is similar to the one used for normal color fillings.
Resin crowns are the most natural-looking crowns.
Long back in the 19th century, the first resin that was used for tooth restoration was vulcanized rubber.
After that, technology has progressed and many other types of resins have been discovered that can easily be used for dental applications.
Nowadays in dentistry, acrylic polymer resins are most commonly used in crowns and dentures.
Another common option that is used is polymethyl methacrylate. This particular variety of resin is prepared by blending chemical units known as monomers along with activating chemicals. This enables the monomers to link together and react in order to form long-chain polymers.
Thanks to this reaction, these resins may harden at room temperature. Other types may need ultraviolet light or heat to catalyze the required change.
A short video about the resin crown procedure. Duration: 1:29
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What is a composite resin crown?
Composite resin crowns are the ideal option for a perfect smile. They are built using a silicon dioxide mixture filled with tooth-colored plastic matter, which is very helpful in restoring the health and look of a tooth.
Since these crowns are not made of metals they can easily be mixed into a number of shades to match the shade of the natural teeth.
It also protects the remaining part of the tooth from breakage and temperature changes.
Composite resin crowns are esthetically very appealing as they represent the natural look and color of a tooth.
In addition, they are metal-free, people with metal allergies can get resin crowns.
Their major disadvantage is that they are not very durable, a resin crown doesn't last longer than a few years, you'll need a replacement crown relatively soon.
Another disadvantage is that a large part of the tooth structure is removed for placing this crown. Gingival inflammation is more common with this type of crown.
Procedure for fitting a resin crown
It generally takes two visits to the dentist to get a resin crown.
This is so because the crown which suits your tooth perfectly has to be handcrafted or custom made in the laboratory, which requires the skill and expertise of a dental technician.
- Initially, the tooth under treatment is numbed with local and topical anesthetic.
- After that, any kind of decay on the tooth is removed.
- Next, the tooth is reshaped with the help of a handpiece.
- Then a precise impression of the tooth is taken and a temporary crown is fitted.
- In the meantime, the permanent crown is manufactured in the laboratory.
- When the final resin crown is ready, the tooth is numbed again and the new crown is fitted.
Personal care has to be taken when the temporary crown is placed on the tooth. The success of the treatment and the health of the gums all depend on this care.
How much does a resin crown cost?
Resin crowns in the United States cost around $300. Resin is an affordable type of dental crown, however since it wears out relatively easily, chances are you are going to need a replacement crown within a few years.
This is both inconvenient and should be considered when thinking about the long term cost of a crown.
You might want to consider some other type of crown. Ceramic crowns like zirconia, E-max, or Lava might be a great alternative.
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A patient talking about her composite resin restoration. Duration: 1:20.
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