Dental Crown Procedure
Dental Crowns Procedures: What You Need to Know
If you’ve been told that you need a dental crown, you may be wondering what that means and what the process involves. Don’t worry! In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about dental crown procedures in simple terms.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a cap that covers a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength. Crowns can also be used to improve the appearance of teeth that are misshapen, discolored, or have other cosmetic issues.
Crowns are typically made of materials like porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of these materials. Your dentist will recommend the best type of crown for your specific needs.
Why Would I Need Dental Crowns?
There are several reasons why your dentist may recommend a dental crown, including:
- To protect a weak tooth from breaking
- To restore a tooth that has been severely worn down or cracked
- To cover a tooth with a large filling or one that has had a root canal
- To improve the appearance of a tooth with cosmetic issues
- To hold a dental bridge in place
- To cover a dental implant
What is the Procedure for Getting a Dental Crown?
The process for getting a dental crown usually involves two visits to the dentist’s office.
During the first visit, your dentist will prepare the tooth that will be receiving the crown. This typically involves removing a small amount of the tooth’s outer layer to make room for the crown. If the tooth is severely damaged or decayed, your dentist may need to build up the tooth with filling material to provide a strong base for the crown.
After the tooth has been prepared, your dentist will take an impression of your tooth and send it to a dental laboratory to create your custom crown. Your dentist will also place a temporary crown over the prepared tooth to protect it while you wait for your permanent crown to be made.
During your second visit, your dentist will remove the temporary crown and replace it with your permanent crown. Your dentist will check the fit and appearance of the crown before cementing it in place with a strong dental adhesive.
The entire process typically takes two to three weeks from start to finish.
Are There Any Risks or Complications?
As with any dental procedure, there are some risks and potential complications associated with getting a dental crown. These may include:
- Tooth sensitivity: Some patients may experience sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures after getting a crown. This usually goes away on its own within a few days or weeks.
- Crown fracture: Crowns can sometimes crack or break, especially if they are made of porcelain or ceramic materials. If this happens, your dentist will need to replace the crown.
- Infection: In rare cases, the tooth may become infected after the crown has been placed. This may require root canal treatment or even tooth extraction.
It’s important to follow your dentist’s instructions for caring for your crown to minimize the risk of complications.
How Do I Care for My Dental Crown?
Caring for your dental crown is similar to caring for your natural teeth. Here are a few tips:
- Brush and floss regularly: Be sure to brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once a day to remove plaque and bacteria that can cause tooth decay.
- Avoid hard or sticky foods: Crowns can sometimes become dislodged or damaged by hard or sticky foods. Avoid chewing on ice, hard candies, or other similar items.
- Wear a mouthguard: If you participate in contact sports or grind your teeth at night, wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth and your crown.
- Visit your dentist regularly: Be sure to see your dentist for
