Dental Crowns

What is Dental Crown?

Dental crowns are a type of dental restoration that completely encircle or cap a tooth or dental implant. They are typically used to restore the shape, size, strength, and appearance of a tooth. Crowns are necessary when a tooth is generally damaged or decayed to the point where fillings are unable to solve the problem.

Here are some key points about dental crowns:

1. Materials Used: Dental crowns can be made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, composite resin, or a combination of these materials. Porcelain or ceramic crowns can be matched to the color of your natural teeth.
2. Uses of Dental Crowns:

• Restoring a Damaged Tooth: When a tooth is fractured, has a large filling, or is severely worn down, a crown can be used to protect and restore it.
• Covering a Dental Implant: Crowns are often used to cover a dental implant to provide a tooth-like shape and structure for function.
• Aesthetic Improvement: Crowns can be used to improve the appearance of misshapen or severely discolored teeth.
• Protecting a Weak Tooth: A tooth weakened by decay, cracks, or other damage can be protected from breaking through the placement of a crown.

1. Procedure:

• The dentist prepares the tooth by removing its outer portion to accommodate the crown. If additional tooth structure is needed to support the crown, a filling material may be used.
• An impression is made to provide an exact model for the crown.
• While the permanent crown is being made, a temporary crown is placed.
• Once ready, the permanent crown is fitted, adjusted, and cemented into place.

1. Lifespan: Crowns typically last between 5 to 15 years, depending on the wear and tear they are exposed to and how well oral hygiene is maintained.
2. Care for Dental Crowns: Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are crucial. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and avoiding chewing hard foods, ice, or other hard objects can help prolong the life of a crown.

Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Crowns

Q1: What is a dental crown? A1: A dental crown is a custom-made cap that is placed over a tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and improve its appearance. It encases the entire visible part of a tooth that lies at and above the gum line.

Q2: When is a dental crown needed? A2: Crowns are needed in the following situations:

• To protect a weak tooth from breaking (often after decay or a large filling)
• To restore a broken or severely worn-down tooth
• To cover and support a tooth with a large filling when there isn’t a lot of teeth left
• To hold a dental bridge in place
• To cover misshaped or severely discolored teeth
• To cover a dental implant

Q3: What materials are used for dental crowns? A3: Crowns can be made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, gold, metal alloys, or a combination of materials. Porcelain or ceramic crowns are popular for their natural color matching with your teeth.

Q4: How long do dental crowns last? A4: Dental crowns typically last between 5 to 15 years, but their lifespan can extend much longer with proper care, including good oral hygiene and avoiding habits like teeth grinding or chewing hard foods.

Q5: Is the procedure for getting a dental crown painful? A5: The procedure is usually performed with local anesthesia, so it is not painful. Some sensitivity or discomfort may be experienced after the procedure, but it’s typically minor and temporary.

Q6: How do I care for my dental crown? A6: Care for a dental crown by maintaining good oral hygiene. This includes brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting the dentist regularly. Also, avoid chewing hard foods, ice, and other hard objects.

Q7: How much does a dental crown cost? A7: The cost of a dental crown varies depending on the material used and the specific needs of the patient. It’s best to discuss costs with your dentist, as insurance may cover a portion of the expense.

Q8: Can a crowned tooth get a cavity? A8: Yes, a tooth with a crown can still get a cavity. The margin where the crown meets the tooth is susceptible, so maintaining good oral hygiene is important.

Q9: How long does it take to get a dental crown? A9: Typically, getting a dental crown requires two visits to the dentist – one to prepare the tooth and take impressions, and a second to fit the permanent crown. The process may take a couple of weeks.

Q10: Can dental crowns be whitened? A10: No, dental crowns cannot be whitened like natural teeth. If you want a brighter smile, consider having your teeth whitened before getting a crown, so it can be matched to your desired tooth color.