Things to Know while Getting a Dental Crown Procedure

You may need a crown if your tooth is severely damaged, cracked, weakened or in case of a large cavity that is too big to be filled. It can also be recommended after a root canal treatment as they become too fragile and needs protection.

A tooth crown is generally a cap for a damaged tooth and is made from a variety of materials, including metal or porcelain. Here’s all you need to know about it.

How Dentist Choose Crown for your Teeth?

When selecting the material for your crown, your dentist will consider factors such as:

• The location of your tooth
• How much teeth will show when you smile
• The position of gum tissue
• The purpose of the tooth that needs the crown
• How much natural tooth is remaining
• The color of the surrounding teeth

Visit expert dentists at Advanced Dental Solutions in Anchorage, Alaska. They are specialized in the field of orthodontics. You will get all the dental services including crowns, bridges, cosmetic dentistry, smile makeovers, dentures, implants as well as TMJ therapy. The dentists will listen to your concerns and will provide the best solutions as per your situation.

What Does it Involve?

The dental crown procedure depends on whether your dentist opts for a traditional or same-day procedure. For a multi-day procedure, you will need to visit your dentist’s office twice to get your temporary crown.

• First of all the dentist will examine and prepare the tooth that needs the crown by taking X-rays of the tooth. Then they will take a mold of your tooth or mouth beforehand.
• Then the dentist will file down the tooth and remove part of the outer layer. An impression is made out of the trimmed tooth and the surrounding teeth.
• The dentist will then put a temporary crown over your tooth for its protection. After that, they will send the impression to a lab that makes the crown which can take several weeks.
• When the crown arrives, your dentist will call you to cement the tooth crown.

However, for a same-day procedure, there is no need for you to visit again and again. It means you can get it done in a single visit.

• First, the dentist will take digital pictures of your mouth.
• Your crown will be ready in 1 or 2 hours by using the digital scan from the photos. The dentist will create the crown right there in the office.
• When the crown is ready, your dentist will call you to put the crown onto the tooth. This procedure may take about 2 to 4 hours. You can instantly go back to your normal routine.
• Remember, all the dentists don’t have the technology to make same-day crowns. You must ask your dentist if this option is available for you and the estimated cost.

Types of Dental Crowns

Different kinds of materials can be used in crowns such as porcelain, ceramic, zirconia, metal, composite resin, and a combination of materials. Here are some of the dental crown types:

1. Ceramic Dental Crowns

These dental crowns are porcelain-based and are used for restoring the front teeth. They can be easily matched with your natural teeth by giving a hint of color of the natural teeth. They are not suitable for molars and pre-molars as ceramic can become brittle when it is exposed to heavy biting forces.

2. Porcelain-Fused to Metal Dental Crowns

The porcelain is fused into the metal dental crowns and they provide to their patients the best of both the worlds.

The metal surface is ultra-durable and provides a natural-looking tooth. The dentist needs to remove a moderate amount of tooth structure to put them.

3. Gold Alloys Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are constructed of gold alloys and contain gold, copper, and some other metals. Gold alloys are stronger and will not easily fracture. They will protect the underlying tooth and are compatible with gum tissue.

4. Base Metal Alloys Dental Crowns

They are very much resistant to corrosion and are incredibly strong. They are gentle towards another tooth as they contain non-noble metals. For these metal crowns, only a small part of the tooth structure is removed.

Caring for Your Tooth Crown

It’s important to take good care after getting your crown. Taking proper care can increase its life.

• Brush twice a day and use toothpaste especially for sensitive teeth if your crown or the teeth around it are sensitive to heat or cold.
• Floss your teeth daily to keep them in good shape.
• If you have a porcelain crown, avoid hard foods.
• Your dentist may recommend a nightguard if you grind or clench your teeth at night. It will protect your crown and surrounding teeth.

How Long Do these Tooth Caps Last?

A tooth cap can last between 5 and 15 years. However, some of them are sturdier than others, so they may last longer.

A monolithic crown is made up of a solid piece of material, such as zirconia. Generally, gold crowns and porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns have the longest life span.

With proper care, crowns can last many years.

Remember, there are many choices available to you when it comes to crowns. Take suggestions from your dentist about which type of crown will be most suitable for you.