All You Need To Know About Dental Crowns

Do you have a damaged tooth? Instead of going for tooth removal, you may want to consider getting dental crowns. Essentially, crowns are artificial caps that protect and shape teeth when filling cannot solve the dental problem. This post provides insights into the dental crown's features and procedures.

What Are Dental Crowns?

A crown acts as a cap for a damaged tooth. Typically, teeth damage result from decay or injuries, making them lose shape and size. In such a case, one can get the dental crowns placed on the damaged tooth to restore the shape, size, appearance, and functionality. In practice, the dental crown gets cemented on the damaged tooth to cover the visible tooth portion. 

Dental crown types depend on the material, including porcelain, metal, ceramic, zirconia, and composite resin. Although you may prefer a specific dental crown, the dentist can provide the best advice. In such a case, the dentist will consider the tooth location, gum tissues position, tooth functionality, color of other teeth, and how much of the damaged tooth remains. Significantly, a dental crown lasts between 5 to 15 years, depending on oral care and type of material.  

When Do You Need a Dental Crown? 

You may require a dental crown for the following reasons:

• Cover a discolored or disfigured tooth 
• Cover and support for a tooth with a large filling 
• Covering dental implant or a tooth treated through root canal 
• Protection for a weak or cracked tooth 
• Restoration for a broken tooth 
• Holding a dental bridge in place

What Is the Dental Crown Procedure?

The standard procedure takes two visits to the dentist for preparation and placement purposes. The first visit begins with a series of x-rays to examine the tooth root and bone. Then, based on the severity of tooth decay, you may need to have a root canal procedure to treat any infection. 

After the x-ray examination, the doctor numbs the tooth to eliminate pain. Next, the doctor conducts tooth filing to create room for the crown. However, the dentist may have to enlarge the tooth using artificial materials if a large part is missing. After the shaping, the doctor applies a paste to make an impression of the tooth. This impression goes to the lab to sculpture the crown in a process lasting two to three weeks. Ordinarily, the dentist will install a temporary crown to protect the tooth until the placement visit. 

In the second visit, the doctor removes the temporary crown. Then, the dentist inspects the permanent crown to ensure it is a perfect match in shape and color. Finally, the permanent crown gets fixed in place using dental cement.

Technological advancement now allows for same-day crown installation in a single appointment. In such a case, the crown design takes place on the same day at the dentist office.

What Are the Possible Complications? 

There are few possible complications with dental crown installations. Typically, the risks include tooth sensitivity, chipped or loose crown, allergic reaction, and gum disease. Thus, contact your dentist immediately after a complication for a remedial procedure. 

Dental crowns offer an alternative solution for treating and restoring damaged teeth. Engage a local dentist and explore the dental crown choices.