What Are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are tooth-shaped caps placed over damaged or weak teeth. They help restore the tooth’s shape, size, and strength. Often, dental crowns improve the look of your smile. Dentists use them when a tooth cannot be fixed with a simple filling. According to the American Dental Association, crowns are a common way to protect teeth and keep your mouth healthy.
Types of Dental Crowns
There are several types of dental crowns. Each type has its own benefits. Your dentist will help you choose the best one for your needs. Here are the main types:
Porcelain Crowns: These look most like natural teeth. They are a popular choice for front teeth.
Metal Crowns: Made from gold or other metals, these are very strong. They are often used for back teeth.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns: These combine strength and a natural look. They have a metal base with a porcelain cover.
Resin Crowns: These are less costly but may wear down faster than other types.
Ceramic Crowns: These are metal-free and look natural. They are good for people with metal allergies.
When Are Dental Crowns Needed?
Sometimes, a tooth is too weak or damaged for a filling. In these cases, a dental crown may be the best option. You might need a crown if:
Your tooth is cracked or broken
You have a large cavity that cannot be filled
Your tooth is worn down from grinding
You have had a root canal treatment
You want to cover a misshapen or discolored tooth
In many cases, dental crowns help save teeth that might otherwise need to be removed.
The Dental Crown Procedure: Step-by-Step
Getting a dental crown usually takes two visits. Here is what you can expect:
First Visit: Your dentist examines and prepares the tooth. They may take X-rays. Next, they shape the tooth and take an impression. A temporary crown is placed to protect your tooth.
Second Visit: The dentist removes the temporary crown. Then, they fit and cement the final crown in place. Your bite is checked to make sure it feels right.
Sometimes, dentists use new technology to make and place crowns in one visit.
Benefits of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns offer many benefits. For example, they:
Protect weak or damaged teeth
Restore the shape and function of teeth
Improve the look of your smile
Last for many years with proper care
Help you chew and speak better
According to the ADA, crowns are a safe and effective way to keep your teeth healthy.
Aftercare and Maintenance Tips
Proper care helps your dental crowns last longer. Here are some tips:
Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft brush
Floss daily to remove food and plaque
Avoid chewing hard foods like ice or hard candy
Visit your dentist for regular check-ups
If you grind your teeth, ask your dentist about a night guard
With good care, dental crowns can last 5 to 15 years or more.
Potential Risks and Complications
Most people do well with dental crowns. However, there can be some risks. For instance:
The crown may become loose or fall off
You might feel sensitivity to hot or cold
Gums around the crown can get sore or swollen
Rarely, you may have an allergic reaction to the crown material
If you notice pain, swelling, or the crown feels loose, contact your dentist right away.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do dental crowns last? With good care, most crowns last 5 to 15 years.
Does getting a crown hurt? Dentists use numbing medicine, so you should not feel pain during the procedure.
Can I eat normally with a crown? Yes, but avoid very hard or sticky foods to protect your crown.
How do I clean my crown? Brush and floss as you do with your natural teeth.
Are dental crowns safe? Yes, dental crowns are safe and widely used, according to the ADA.
To sum up, dental crowns are a strong and lasting way to fix damaged teeth. They can help restore your smile and protect your oral health. Consult a qualified dentist at Swetha Multispecialty Dental to find out if dental crowns are right for you.
