Here Is Everything You Need To Know About Dental Crowns
Are you thinking about getting one or more dental crowns put in? Following are a few things you should know about them before making your final decision.
When Should Dental Crowns Be Considered?
There are several reasons your dentist may suggest dental crowns for you as time goes on. One of the most common reasons for getting a dental crown put in because a tooth has been broken and needs to be restored to a natural look. Other reasons you may consider having a dental crown put in include:
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To protect a weak decaying tooth.
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To support a filled tooth that is decaying.
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To help properly hold a dental bridge in place.
Dental crowns can also be used to effectively cover severely discolored or misshapen teeth and give you a bright healthy-looking smile you can be proud of.
What Types of Dental Crowns are Available?
Dental crowns can be made out of several different types of materials. Stainless steel crowns are typically used temporarily while permanent crowns are made from another material. Permanent dental crown options are varied and include:
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Base-Metal Alloys – They can withstand the wear and tear of chewing and biting well.
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Porcelain – They're easy to color match to adjacent natural teeth.
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Resin – An affordable option, but they can break down faster than other options.
Permanent dental crowns are made in a laboratory, so it can take awhile before yours are ready to be fitted in your mouth. You can ask your dentist to fit you with temporary crowns while you wait so you can start getting used to wearing them.
What is the Process for Getting Dental Crowns?
The first step you'll take to get a dental crown put in is visit your dentist for an examination. Your dentist will likely take some X-rays of the tooth you'll be crowning to inspect the root and bone structure surrounding it and ensure that they are in good health. If severe decaying is detected underneath the gum line, your dentist may want to prep the tooth by doing a root canal.
Your dentist will then numb your tooth and the gum area around it before filing the tooth down or filling it in, depending on the situation, in preparation for the crown. They'll then use some special putty to make an impression of your tooth. The impression will be sent to a lab so your crown can be specially made.
Once it's ready and your dentist receives it, you'll visit their office again to have your dental crown put in. The process is done in just one visit and typically only local anesthesia is needed. After the crown is in place, you can go home and start using your teeth like you normally would.
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