Information On Dental Crowns

Dental crowns may be needed for a variety of reasons, like restoring a broken tooth or covering an implant. The different types of crowns include metal, porcelain-fused-to-metal, all-porcelain, and all-resin. Getting a crown usually requires two dentist visits-one to examine and prepare the tooth, and one to place the permanent crown.

You may need a dental crown for one of many reasons, such as to restore a broken tooth or to cover a tooth that has a large filling. A crown is a tooth-shaped cap, placed over your tooth to restore its appearance and strength. It completely encases the visible portion of the tooth. Other reasons it may be needed include protecting a weak tooth from breaking, holding a dental bridge in place, and covering a dental implant. There are different types of dental crowns which may be used.

The first type, metal, is usually made of gold alloy or other alloys and can be thinner than other types. For this reason, less of your tooth structure must be removed before the cap can be used. This kind also does not wear down as easily as some other kinds of dental crowns and is not likely to chip or break. Another option is porcelain-fused-to-metal, which is a metal shell fused to a porcelain covering. The porcelain can be made to match the color of your teeth, so this type is more aesthetically appealing.

However, the metal part can sometimes show through, appearing as a dark line at or near the gum line. To avoid this, you may opt for an all-porcelain cap. This selection is also ideal if you are allergic to metal. Another type is all-resin, which is less expensive than the other choices. This type is more likely to fracture or wear down than the other types as well.

Dental crowns usually require two visits to your dentist. During the first visit, the dentist examines and prepares your tooth. He or she will check for decay or infection to determine whether you need a root canal first. X-rays may be taken to examine the tooth root and surrounding bone. If no other procedures are needed, the dentist will file down the tooth’s chewing surface and sides. If a large portion of your tooth is already missing because of decay or damage, the dentist will use filling material to build it up. Impressions of the tooth and opposing teeth are made and sent to a dental laboratory.

The laboratory creates the permanent crown, which usually takes two or three weeks. To protect your tooth during this time, your dentist creates and places a temporary crown. It is commonly acrylic and held in place with temporary cement. Your dentist will likely recommend that you take precautions when eating to avoid dislodging it. For example, you will probably need to avoid sticky foods like caramel and hard foods like raw vegetables.

When the dentist receives your permanent cap from the laboratory, you will go back for your second visit. At this appointment, your dentist removes the temporary cap and checks the permanent one to make sure it will fit properly. If it is porcelain or porcelain-fused-to-metal, the dentist will also check the color. If the permanent dental crown is acceptable, the dentist will cement it in place.

Permanent crowns do not require any special care, but you should still practice good oral hygiene. The underlying tooth is not protected from decay, so be sure to continue brushing and flossing regularly. Dental crowns are usually very sturdy as long as they are properly fitted and placed. If you develop any problems, such as a chipped or loose crown, contact your dentist as soon as possible for care instructions.

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