Dentists use crowns to cover teeth for a variety of reasons. A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that is placed over an existing tooth to improve its appearance, strength, and durability. It can be made from a variety of materials, such as porcelain, ceramic, glass, or metal. A crown is used when a filling is too large for the natural tooth structure or after a root canal.
It can also be used for cosmetic reasons. Talk to your dental insurance provider to determine if it will cover a portion of the costs associated with your dental crown. A dental crown can rebuild and preserve your natural tooth, providing you with many more years of healthy chewing function. But what exactly is a dental crown and what can you expect from the process? Here's everything you need to know about dental crowns, including what they are, what to expect before and after the procedure, potential side effects, and average costs. Before getting a dental crown, your dentist will examine your mouth and take X-rays to determine if you need one. They will also check the size of the cavity and the amount of healthy tooth structure remaining.
If the crown involves a front tooth, the dentist may send it to the dental laboratory for the lab technician to take a custom color from the surrounding teeth. The procedure for getting a dental crown usually takes two visits. During the first visit, your dentist will prepare your tooth by removing any decay or old fillings and shaping it so that it can fit the crown. They will then make an impression of your teeth and send it to the lab for fabrication. During your second visit, your dentist will check the fit of the crown and make any necessary adjustments before permanently cementing it in place. After getting a dental crown, you may experience some sensitivity or discomfort in the area.
This is normal and should go away within a few days. Using a piece of dental floss, your dentist will also check the contacts between the crown and nearby teeth to ensure that there is ideal contact between them. If after a few days you notice anything unusual in your new dental crown, call your dentist right away to have it examined. The lifespan of a dental crown can vary depending on the type of material used, your dental hygiene habits, and other lifestyle factors. However, with proper care and maintenance, most crowns last between five and fifteen years.
Dr. Liu also explains how dental crowns can improve the overall appearance of teeth, noting that “crowns for front teeth can provide greater aesthetics to someone's smile”.If you need a dental crown, talk to your dentist about all of your options. They can help you decide which type of material is best for you and explain how much it will cost. With proper care and maintenance, you can enjoy many years of healthy chewing function with your new dental crown.
