Facts You May Not Know About Dental Crowns

When a tooth becomes cracked, dental crowns can be used to restore it.  They are also used to protect and strengthen a tooth after a root canal or when a large portion of the tooth has been removed.  Unlike a veneer, they are placed around the tooth like a cap in order to provide the strength and durability that a patient needs in order to bite down like normal.

Here is what you need to know about the process:

Crowns can be made from a variety of materials.  This includes all-metal which is the most durable, porcelain-on-metal which has a natural appearance and durability, and all-porcelain which look the most natural.  Each material has advantages and disadvantages, and the dentist will make a recommendation based on the tooth and what you are trying to accomplish.

Preparing the tooth.  Before dental crowns can be placed, the tooth has to be prepared.  This typically involves removing a portion of the tooth so that the crown will fit around it.  Metal crowns require the smallest amount of the tooth to be removed.

Wearing a temporary crown.  Most patients need to wear a temporary crown in order to protect the tooth and hold it in place prior to the permanent one being attached. The temporary is typically secured using a glue that is designed to come off when needed.  This means it is not as durable as the permanent one, so people need to be careful with it and not eat anything hard or sticky that could make it become loose.  If it does, visit the dentist right away.

Creating a new crown.  The permanent crown will be created in a dental lab after a mold has been taken of your tooth and the teeth that surround it.  This is important because not only does the crown need to fit around the tooth, the ridges on the top need to be perfect so that it will fit with your bite.

Installing the crown.  Your temporary one will be removed, and the area will be cleaned.  Next, the dentist will place a new crown around the tooth to see how it looks.  Minor adjustments may be made before it is attached.  If everything looks good, the new crown will be secured to your tooth using glue and bonded into place. This crown will be durable and strong, allowing the patient to eat like normal once the tooth has healed.

Potential complications.  Sometimes, the crown will not fit perfectly with the prepared tooth.  This can be uncomfortable, and you should let your dentist know right away if this happens.  Additionally, a crown can become loose which allows bacteria and food to become trapped in between the tooth and the crown.  If you notice that your crown is loose, or there is an odor coming from the area, call the dentist.

Replacing a crown.  Crowns normally last around seven years.  If a porcelain crown becomes damaged during this time frame, the dentist may be able to correct it inside of the mouth without replacing it.  Metal crowns have been known to last for up to 40 years so if you are looking for a long-term, no hassle solution this may be your best option.

Dental crowns are an excellent option for strengthening teeth or repairing ones that have become damaged.  To learn more, schedule a dentist appointment.