What's a Dental Crown

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that is placed over a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its strength, shape, size, and appearance. It is cemented into place and covers the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gum line. Dental crowns are commonly made from porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of these materials.

The Process of Getting a Dental Crown

The process of getting a dental crown typically involves several steps, including:

1. Examination and Consultation: A dentist examines your teeth and assesses whether a dental crown is necessary. They will discuss the treatment plan and answer any questions you may have.

2. Tooth Preparation: The dentist numbs the area around the tooth and removes any decay or damage. The tooth is then shaped to create space for the crown.

3. Impressions: An impression of the tooth is taken using dental putty or a digital scanner. This impression is used to create a custom-made crown that fits perfectly over the prepared tooth.

4. Temporary Crown: While the permanent crown is being fabricated in a dental laboratory, a temporary crown is placed to protect the prepared tooth.

5. Crown Placement: Once the permanent crown is ready, the temporary crown is removed, and the permanent crown is cemented onto the tooth using a dental adhesive.

Benefits of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns offer several benefits, including:

1. Protection: Crowns provide added strength and protection to weak or damaged teeth, reducing the risk of further decay or fractures.

2. Restoration: They restore the shape, size, and functionality of a tooth, allowing you to bite and chew properly.

3. Aesthetics: Crowns can improve the appearance of discolored, misshapen, or severely stained teeth, enhancing your smile.

4. Durability: With proper care, dental crowns can last for many years, providing long-term durability and stability.

Types of Dental Crowns

There are different types of dental crowns available, and the choice depends on various factors, including the location of the tooth, personal preference, and budget. The common types of dental crowns include:

1. Porcelain Crowns: These crowns are made entirely of porcelain, providing excellent aesthetics that closely resemble natural teeth. They are ideal for front teeth and can be customized to match the color and shape of neighboring teeth.

2. Metal Crowns: Metal crowns, such as gold or silver alloy crowns, are highly durable and offer superior strength. They are often used for molars and can withstand biting and chewing forces.

3. Porcelain-fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns: PFM crowns have a metal base for strength and porcelain outer layer for improved aesthetics. They provide a good balance between durability and aesthetics.

4. Ceramic Crowns: Ceramic crowns are highly aesthetic and blend seamlessly with natural teeth. They are metal-free and suitable for those with metal allergies.

Care and Maintenance

To ensure the longevity of your dental crown, it is essential to practice proper care and maintenance. Here are some tips:

1. Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Don't forget to floss daily, paying extra attention to the area around the crown.

2. Avoid Hard Foods and Habits: Refrain from biting down on hard objects or using your teeth as tools, as this can cause damage to the crown.

3. Regular Dental Check-ups: Visit your dentist for regular check-ups and professional cleanings to detect any issues with the crown at an early stage.

4. Nightguard: If you grind your teeth while sleeping, consider wearing a nightguard to protect your crown from excessive wear and tear.

Cost of Dental Crowns

The cost of dental crowns can vary depending on various factors, such as the material used, the complexity of the case, and the location. On average, a dental crown can cost between $800 and $1,500 per tooth. However, prices may range from $500 to $2,500 or more, depending on individual circumstances and geographic location.

FAQs about Dental Crowns

1. How long do dental crowns last?

Dental crowns can last for 10 to 15 years or even longer with proper care and maintenance.

2. Are dental crowns painful?

The process of getting a dental crown is not typically painful as it is performed under local anesthesia. However, some minor discomfort or sensitivity may be experienced after the procedure, which subsides over time.

3. Can dental crowns be whitened?

Porcelain and ceramic crowns are stain-resistant and cannot be whitened. If you are considering teeth whitening, it is recommended to do it before getting a crown to match the color of your natural teeth correctly.

4. Can dental crowns be used for children?

Dental crowns are generally not recommended for primary teeth in children. They are commonly used for permanent teeth to restore their function and aesthetics.

5. Can dental crowns fall off?

Although rare, dental crowns can occasionally come off if there is an issue with the bonding or if there is severe damage to the underlying tooth. If this happens, contact your dentist immediately for evaluation and re-cementation if necessary.