It is important to have a healthy smile for eating, speaking, and feeling confident. However, sometimes the teeth can get damaged by decay, trauma, or wear. In such cases, your dentist near you may advise you to have dental crowns in order to make the tooth stronger and more beautiful. A dental crown is a covering placed over a tooth to protect it from injury while allowing it to function more like an original tooth.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is like a cap-sized tooth that is placed on the top of a weak or damaged tooth to protect it and restore its normal shape, size, and function. Dental crowns are placed on a tooth by dentists when the tooth is too weak to hold a regular filling.
Types of Dental Crowns
There are different types of dental crowns according to the materials used to make them:
- Porcelain Crowns: Such crowns seem very similar to real teeth and are usually placed on the front teeth.
- Metal Crowns: These are made of gold or other metals and hence are very long-lasting and durable.
- Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crown: This has a metal base and a thin cover of porcelain for aesthetic purposes.
- Ceramic Crowns are made from a very strong ceramic material and are best suited for people with metal allergies.
- Resin Crowns: Reasonable among all types, but not very durable like others.
When Do You Need a Dental Crown?
Dentists may recommend a dental crown in the following cases:
- A tooth is severely decayed and cannot hold a filling.
- A tooth is cracked or broken and needs protection.
- A tooth has had a root canal and requires extra support.
- A dental implant needs a covering to function like a natural tooth.
- A tooth is discoloured or misshapen, and a crown can improve its appearance.
Benefits of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns offer several advantages for patients with damaged teeth.
- Protects Weak Teeth: To build up a tooth that has been severely decayed or fractured, a crown is recommended to prevent more damage to the tooth.
- Restores Function: With a dental crown, you can chew and bite comfortably again.
- Improves Appearance: Crowns can also give teeth a more aesthetic look if they are stained or discoloured.
- Covers Dental Implants: A crown is used to cover dental implants, which are used when a patient has lost a tooth.
- Long-Lasting Solution: Once placed, a long-term solution is achieved by crowns as long as proper care is followed to make it last for many years.
Dental Crown Procedure
Generally, a dental crown requires two visits to the dentist’s clinic.
First Visit: The dentist removes any decayed portion and shapes the tooth. An impression is taken to create a custom crown. In order to cover the tooth and protect it from sensitivity, a temporary crown is placed on it.
Second Visit: The dentist will take off the temporary crown and put the permanent one in. When crowned, the crown is cemented into place.
Lifespan of a Dental Crowns
The longevity of a dental crown depends on care and ranges between 5 to 15 years and more. Some crowns have even been known to last more than 20 years if properly maintained.
Here are tips on how to make your crown last longer:
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day, and do not forget to floss once a day.
- Do not chew on hard foods such as ice or nuts.
- Schedule of check-ups with a dentist.
- If you have a teeth-grinding habit, use a mouth guard at night.
Are Dental Crowns Painful?
The procedure is not painful because the dentist uses local anesthesia to numb the area. After placement, some people feel mild discomfort, but this usually goes away in a few days.
Dental crowns help restore damaged teeth, making them stronger and more attractive. It shields weak teeth, enhances chewing, and can last for many years if proper care is taken. If your dentist tells you that you need a crown on a tooth, it can be the best way to preserve your tooth.
Protect Your Smile with a Dental Crown Today!
Jagare Ridge Dental offers quality dental care for all ages of patients. Our dentist in South Edmonton is dedicated to helping maintain your teeth’s health through services including cleanings, dental crowns, and more. We implement modern technology to ensure we provide safe and painless treatments.
Visit Jagare Ridge Dental for a healthy, confident smile! Book your appointment today!