Guide To Getting a Dental Crown

A dental crown is one of the most common restorative dental procedures. It restores the form and function of a tooth affected by damage or decay. Whether due to decay, trauma, or wear and tear, a crown can restore the strength and appearance of your tooth through a fairly simple procedure.

What is a dental crown?

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap cemented over a natural tooth, usually one that needs repair or reinforcement. Also known as a dental cap, it covers the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gum line. Crowns can contain porcelain, tooth-colored composite resin, metal, or a combination of materials.

Who needs a dental crown?

A general dentist may recommend a dental crown for several reasons. If a tooth is severely weakened or damaged due to tooth decay, trauma, or wear and tear, a crown may be the only way to save the tooth and restore its function. A crown is a common solution for a cracked tooth, especially where the tooth pulp is affected. A dentist may also recommend a crown to reinforce a tooth that a root canal treatment has devitalized. They are also important components of tooth replacement solutions, such as dental implants and bridges.

Process of getting a dental crown

Getting a traditional dental crown is typically a two-appointment process.

First appointment

During this appointment, the general dentist will examine the tooth, determine if the crown is necessary, and help the patient decide what material best suits their needs. Next, the dentist must file down the chewing surface and sides of the tooth to accommodate the crown. Sometimes, they may need filling material to make the tooth large enough to support the crown. The next step involves taking a physical or digital impression of the tooth to be sent to the dental lab, where a technician will construct the crown. Finally, the dentist may provide the patient with a temporary crown to protect the tooth until the permanent crown is ready.

Second appointment

The permanent crown should be ready for placement about one to two weeks after the first appointment. The patient will come in and have the temporary crown removed. Then, the dentist will check the permanent crown's fit to ensure it fits well and is aesthetically pleasing before cementing it over the tooth.

Caring for your dental crown

The general dentist will send the patient home with a list of potential complications and aftercare instructions they should follow carefully. Be especially careful when eating and avoid sticky and hard foods and very hot or cold foods for at least two days. The patient will have a follow-up appointment with the dentist. Still, the patient should contact their provider earlier if there is excessive pain, signs of infection, or anything else unusual.

Dental crowns can last anywhere from five to 20 years, depending on several factors. To get the most out of the crown, patients should continue proper oral hygiene, avoid hard and sticky foods, and refrain from bad dental habits such as teeth grinding and biting on hard objects like pens or ice.