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Does Your Tooth Need a Crown?

A crown is a cap that is placed over a tooth to cover it. It may also replace a lost or broken tooth. It resembles a tooth and is used to restore the look, function and strength of a tooth.

Why Do Dentists Use Crowns?

Crowns are more than cosmetic. They help save teeth that are damaged, weak or severely worn. Crowns also hold dental bridges in place, cover dental implants and make teeth look better. They are among the most common dental procedures.

 How Are Dental Crowns Made?

Crowns are made from different materials. The type your dentist uses will depend on the procedure you’re having and the condition of your teeth.

Metal: Many crowns are made from metals that have high amounts of gold or platinum. Metal crowns are the most durable type. They rarely chip or need replacing. Because of their shiny gold or silver color, they are best for back molars.

Porcelain: Crowns made from porcelain fused to metal are a good choice for front teeth. They look like natural teeth, and the metal keeps them strong. They are slightly more likely to break or chip than metal crowns, but they’re still durable.

Resin: Resin crowns are more affordable than metal or porcelain crowns. Like porcelain crowns, they look like natural teeth and can work anywhere in your mouth.

Temporary crown: Before you get a permanent crown, your dentist will create a temporary crown. This is usually made from acrylic or stainless steel.

When You Might Need a Crown

You may need a crown to:

  • Restore a broken or worn tooth.

  • Protect a weak tooth.

  • Hold a dental bridge in place.

  • Cover a dental implant.

  • Improve the look of a tooth.

  • Cover a deformed tooth.

  • Fill a tooth after a root canal.

  • Save a tooth that can’t hold a regular filling.

 What Is the Crown Procedure Like?

Getting a crown involves several visits to your dentist’s office. This is necessary to create a crown that fits well and looks natural.

·      At the first visit, your dentist numbs you and then takes an impression of your tooth. Taking the impression involves a tray filled with a sticky material.

·      Your dentist sends the impression to the laboratory that will make your crown.

·      Using a dental color guide, your dentist records the color of your teeth to be sure the new crown matches.

·      The dentist reduces the surface area of the tooth that needs the crown. This is the only part of the procedure that may be a little uncomfortable. Your dentist must remove large amounts of your tooth, and this process may uncover further decay.

·      Your dentist uses a flexible composite material to fill the part of the tooth that was removed.

·      The dentist prepares a temporary crown and places it on your tooth.

·      When the permanent crown is ready, you return to the office to have it placed.

·      During a follow-up visit, your dentist will check that the crown is comfortable and adhering well.

Recovery and Home Care After a Dental Crown Procedure

Your dentist will give you instructions after the procedure. Follow these to keep your crown clean and avoid irritation. A crown procedure is not painful, but your teeth and gums need a few days to heal.

 Contact Us for All Your Dental Needs

Do you have questions about getting a crown? If you have any concerns about your dental health, make an appointment at Malan Family Dentistry today.