What You Must Know About Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are not like dentures. Instead, they are fixed prosthetic devices that are placed onto your existing teeth. They are commonly used to cover a damaged tooth or an implant. Used as an artificial restoration, dental crowns are fitted over the prepared tooth to make it stronger. Sometimes referred to as a “cap,” dental crown gives your prepared tooth shape of a natural tooth.
Materials Used to Make Crowns
Crowns can be made of different materials. One of the most popular materials being used is porcelain. Dental crowns made of pure porcelain are considered to look very natural. They are often placed on your front teeth. However, they are not as strong as bonded crowns. If you need the strength of a bonded crown, then all-ceramic crowns are ideal. They are metal-free alternative and suitable for all areas of your mouth as they appear like a porcelain crown.
Crowns made of glass are also popular. They can offer a very natural look and can be cemented anywhere in the mouth. The oldest filling material is gold. However, it is being paired with metal alloy to increase strength to make it hardwearing. CAD technology or Computer-Aided Design is also getting popular as it can assist dentists and/or lab technicians in fabricating the exact shapes and sizes for dental restorations. Unfortunately, this technology is extremely expensive. Only a few dentists in the US have it in their practices. However, this type of technology shortens appointments. This means that you can quickly get your dental crowns in a short period of time.
Dental Crown Over Tooth
Do I Need a Dental Crown?
It will only be your dentist who can determine whether or not you can take advantage of dental crowns. Oftentimes, this teeth restoration procedure is recommended to a tooth that has been broken or worn down. Dental crowns are also ideal for a tooth that has been missing or a root canal to cover the tooth. Sometimes, dental crowns are placed to enhance the aesthetic appearance of a tooth or to cover a dental implant.
If we think that dental crowns are right for you, we will discuss with you the dental materials that might be suitable for your condition. You should ask how long the procedure is going to take based on your situation. Then, inquire about what preparations you need to do so that the procedure will be a success.
Dental crowns placement will take a few sessions before they can be completed. In between visits, a temporary crown is placed while you wait for your own crown to be made. This temporary crown is noticeable. Then again, this is just temporary so there is no need for you to worry about it.
Before the crowns are sealed, they will be fitted first onto the prepared tooth. This is your time to take a look at their appearance. If you like it, your dentist will cement them using a special adhesive. If not, your dentist will make an alteration until you are satisfied with the results.
Remember that once the crowns are sealed, they cannot be modified.
Does It Hurt?
The tooth where the crown is placed will be prepared. Preparation of the tooth does not hurt because your dentist will use local anesthesia. It will feel like you are getting a dental filling.
How to Take Care of Your Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns can last for years or decades. However, just like your natural teeth, they will not last that long if you do not take care of them. They may come loose or they may fall out. The best way to ensure that they last longer is to brush your teeth using fluoride toothpaste. Do it twice a day. Flossing daily is also recommended. We will tell you how often you should visit our office for regular checkups and professional dental cleanings. You must adhere to the guidelines, else, your dental crowns will get damaged or fall out.
How Much Will They Cost?
The cost of dental crowns may vary depending on the material used and the type of crown you are going to have. It is best to ask your dentist for an estimate before undergoing such a procedure.