Tooth pain can be the worst! And sometimes, the only solution is to restore the teeth with dental crowns. Crowns are used to repair various dental issues, including large cavities, chips, or cracks. They are commonly known as caps that fully encase the tooth to restore its shape, size, and function. Not only do dental crowns fix dental issues, but they also provide several benefits that make them popular among patients. In this post, we will go over everything you need to know about dental crowns. We will cover the types of dental crowns available, the procedure for placing a dental crown, and the aftercare required once the dental crown is placed to ensure longevity. So, stay tuned to learn more about how dental crowns can improve your oral health.
What Are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are specially designed tooth-shaped caps that are used to restore damaged teeth. These caps mimic the shape, size, strength, and durability of natural teeth. Dental crowns can be made from various materials such as metal, porcelain, gold, and zirconia, each of which comes with different advantages and disadvantages. The crown is placed over the visible portion of the damaged tooth and cemented into place.
These types of crowns are used to treat a variety of dental issues, including tooth decay, injuries, wear, and tear. In addition to restoring the functionality of a damaged tooth, dental crowns can also improve a patient’s smile by enhancing the appearance of discolored, misshapen, or broken teeth.
The process of getting dental crowns typically requires two appointments with your dentist. During the initial appointment, the dentist will examine your teeth and prepare the tooth by removing the damaged dental tissue. Then, they take impressions of your teeth and send them to a dental lab to create a custom-fitted dental crown. During the second appointment, the dentist will fit and bond the dental crown in place, ensuring a comfortable and natural-looking smile.
Benefits of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are custom-made to be placed on top of the teeth that provide a strong, protective barrier. Dental crowns can align the bite, and even be the finishing touch for dental implants. They significantly improve the strength and appearance of teeth and prevent further damage or decay. Crowns can also be used in dental bridges and implants for added stability and strength. Overall, dental crowns are an excellent choice for anyone looking to improve both the functionality and the aesthetics of their teeth.
Types of Dental Crowns
The most common types of dental crowns are porcelain, metal, gold, veneers, and zirconia. Porcelain crowns are ideal for people looking for a natural appearance and are best suited for covering teeth with large fillings, fractured teeth, or dental implants. They’re less prone to fracture and seal the tooth better than traditional fillings.
Another type of crown used is the All-ceramic or all-porcelain crown that mimics the look of natural teeth. They offer the most natural appearance of all types of crowns, but they may chip more easily. Gold crowns are the strongest but not as aesthetically pleasing. Molars often receive crowns after a root canal treatment to ensure functionality. Dentists decide which one to use based on the patient’s specific needs and that will provide the best long-term solution.
Procedure for Placing a Dental Crown
The dental crown procedure typically takes two visits. The first visit involves numbing the area, removing or building up the existing tooth, and taking an impression. The impression is sent to a dental laboratory where a custom crown is made to fit the existing tooth. The procedure will vary depending on whether the crown is made in the dental surgery or laboratory. During the patient’s second visit, the dentist will check the fit of the crown and cement it in place. Accurate impressions are taken and a gingival retraction cord is used to gently push the gum tissue away from the prepared tooth. The tooth is then cleaned, and the crown is cemented into place. A correctly fitted crown should restore the function and appearance of the tooth.
Caring for Your New Dental Crown
Crowns come in various materials such as stainless steel, all metal, porcelain-fused-to-metal, all-resin, or all-ceramic. A well-placed and well-maintained dental crown can last up to ten years. It’s imperative to avoid habits like jaw clenching, teeth grinding, or eating hard and brittle foods that may damage the crown. To prolong the lifespan of the dental crown, it is recommended to maintain proper oral hygiene habits by brushing and flossing daily. Regular dental checkups are also essential to ensure the crown’s correct functioning. Lastly, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to clean your dental crown. This way, you can keep it clean without damaging the crown or abrading the material.
How to maintain a dental crown?
Dental crowns must be maintained properly to extend their lifespan. Brush and floss your teeth regularly to prevent decay and support gum health. Avoid jaw clenching and teeth grinding that can damage the crown. Also, avoid using teeth to open packaging or bite down hard on brittle foods. Regular dental checkups are essential to ensure that the crown is not affected by any underlying cavities or gum inflammation. Any discomfort or allergic reaction must be reported to your dentist immediately. It is also important to avoid eating hard or sticky foods that can put pressure on the crown, causing damage or dislodging the crown altogether. With proper maintenance, dental crowns can last for up to 10 years, thus proving to be a long-term investment to maintain your smile.
Conclusion
In conclusion, dental crowns offer a world of benefits for people who want to fix their smiles or improve oral health. They can restore function, and structure and enhance the aesthetics of your teeth. With the different types of crowns available, it’s important to work with your dental professional to choose a suitable one based on your situation. With proper care and maintenance, your dental crown could last for many years, looking and functioning like a natural tooth. Schedule an appointment with us here Eastgate Dental Excellence and let our experts guide you through the procedure of placing a dental crown that is both affordable and personalized to your needs.