Dental Crown And All About It

A dental crown may be the best solution when someone has a severely decayed or fractured tooth. This artificial tooth cap restores the tooth’s function and appearance. Dental crowns are one of the most common dental procedures performed each year. If you’re considering getting a dental crown, here is what you need to know about this procedure.

Why Do You Need A Dental Crown?

There are many reasons why you might need a dental crown. A dental crown is a restoration that covers a tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength. It is also used to improve a tooth’s appearance or protect it from fracture. For example, suppose you have a tooth that is severely decayed. In that case, a crown can be used to cover the decayed portion of it and protect it from further damage. Crowns are also used to support dental bridges, which are used to replace one or more missing teeth. In addition, dental crowns can be placed on implants, which are metal posts surgically implanted into the jawbone to support artificial teeth. 

How Long Do Dental Crowns Last? 

Dental crowns can last up to 15 years if cared for properly with regular brushing twice daily and flossing once daily. Avoid chewing on ice cubes, lollipops, and popcorn kernels which can put too much pressure on the crown leading to cracks or breakage. Visit your dentist every 6 months for regular checkups. You should also carry out regular cleanings to monitor its condition and make necessary repairs.

Types Of Dental Crown

Many types of dental crowns are available, each offering unique benefits. Metal crowns are often the least expensive option but can be pretty noticeable due to their metallic sheen. Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns offer good strength and durability with an aesthetic finish similar to natural teeth. All-porcelain/all-ceramic/all-resin crowns provide excellent aesthetics. Still, they may be weaker than PFM or metal options in some cases. 

Is Dental Crown Painful? 

Most people who have had a dental crown placed a report that the dental crown procedure was not painful. However, some people may experience discomfort during or after the dental crown procedure due to the numb medication wearing off or the temporary cement used to hold the dental crown in place. If you experience discomfort, you can take over-the-counter pain medications to get relief. You should also avoid chewing on hard foods and brushing near the dental crown until it is permanently cemented in place by your dentist.

How Does Dental Crown Work? 

A dental crown procedure usually requires two visits to your dentist. During the first visit, your dentist will prepare your tooth by removing any decay or damage and reshaping it into the desired form. An impression will then be taken of the prepared tooth, and a temporary crown will be placed. In contrast, the permanent crown is made in a dental laboratory using either porcelain fused to metal (PFM) or all-ceramic material. 

The second visit involves the removal of the temporary crown and fitting the permanent one before cementing it into place with unique adhesive. The dentist may make some final adjustments for better fit, shape, and color so that it blends in with your other teeth. In some cases, such as when working with more complex restorations, a 3D scan may be used instead of traditional impressions. 

Dental Crown Aftercare Tips 

Once a dental crown is placed, it is essential to take care of it properly to keep your smile looking its best. Here are some tips for caring for your dental crown:

-Brush and floss your teeth twice a day. Be sure to brush gently around the dental crown.

-Use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Hard bristles can damage the dental crown.

-Avoid chewing on hard foods. Biting down on hard foods can crack the dental crown.

-See your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. Your dentist will check the fit of the dental crown and make sure that there is no decay underneath it.

The Bottom Line 

A dental crown is an effective way to restore teeth that are damaged due to its ability to cover them entirely while providing strength and durability simultaneously. With proper care maintenance, these restorations can last up to 15 years, helping patients maintain excellent oral hygiene during this period. For best results, dentists should do regular checkups every 6 months to ensure a healthy mouth free from cavities and other types of decay. Ultimately, opting for a dental crown comes down to what works best given individual situation circumstances. Hence, consulting professionals is always the best approach to determining whether the procedure is correct for you.