If you’ve ever chipped a tooth, undergone a root canal, or dealt with severe tooth decay, your dentist may have recommended a crown. But what is a dental crown? How does it restore a damaged tooth? And why is it so commonly used in dentistry? Whether you’re already on the road to a crown — or a cap, as some people call them — or you’re simply curious, we can answer all your questions. Let’s discuss everything you need to know about dental crowns.
Dental Crowns 101
So, what is a dental crown? It’s a custom-made cap that covers a damaged, decayed, or weakened tooth. It completely encases the visible portion of the tooth above the gum line. Not only does it restore the tooth’s shape, size, and appearance, but it also strengthens and protects the natural tooth it covers. Crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination, depending on the tooth’s location and your dental needs. At Wilkinson Dental, most of our crowns are made from strong, durable materials like porcelain. Using CEREC technology, we’re also able to offer convenient single-day crowns, eliminating the need for multiple appointments.
How Do Dental Crowns Work?
A crown is like a protective cap, shielding the tooth from damage and restoring its appearance. The process of getting a crown typically includes the following steps:
- Preparation: Your dentist will reshape the affected tooth, removing a portion of the enamel to make room for the crown. This step ensures that the crown will fit properly in your mouth and give you a well-aligned bite.
- Impressions: Next, your dental team will take an impression of your teeth with a mold and/or digitally. This model will be sent to a dental lab, which will custom-make a crown that matches the color and shape of your teeth.
- Temporary Crown: While the permanent crown is being fabricated, your dentist will place a temporary crown to protect the prepared tooth and allow you to eat and speak normally.
- Crown Placement: Finally, your dentist will remove the temporary crown and cement the permanent crown in place using dental adhesive. Your dentist will make some final adjustments to ensure the crown looks and feels natural and doesn’t disrupt your bite.
As we mentioned above, we’re also able to offer CEREC crowns, which can be completed in a single dental visit. How are these crowns fabricated so quickly?
First, they rely on digital imaging instead of a physical impression. Next, your dentist can design your custom crown using the specialized CEREC software, ensuring a perfect fit. Then, the crown is milled from a solid ceramic block right there at your dentist’s office — no need to send data to an external lab and wait days or weeks for the final product. The fabrication process typically takes about 10 to 30 minutes. Finally, your dentist will permanently bond the crown to your tooth.
If you want a speedy, convenient crown that does not require multiple appointments, ask your dentist about CEREC.
What Is a Dental Crown Used to Treat?
Dental crowns can remedy a variety of dental woes, and they’re often used in conjunction with other treatments. Your dentist may recommend a crown for all the following reasons and more:
- To restore a cracked, chipped, or otherwise fractured tooth
- To cover a large filling in a decayed tooth
- To improve the appearance of a misshapen or discolored tooth
- To protect a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy
- To complete a dental implant
- To support a dental bridge, which replaces one or more missing teeth
- To strengthen teeth worn down by teeth grinding or erosion
As you can see, crowns are a versatile dental solution, assisting with a number of issues affecting the strength, function, and appearance of teeth.
How Long Does a Dental Crown Last?
Dental crowns typically last about 10 to 15 years, though they may last 20 years or more with proper care. It’s essential that you maintain a solid routine of brushing and flossing and visit your dentist twice a year to prevent decay from building up around the crown’s edges and keep your gums healthy. In addition, avoid potentially hazardous habits like teeth grinding, chewing ice, biting your fingernails, or using your teeth as a tool. With proper maintenance, a dental crown can be a long-lasting solution.
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If you suspect a crown could fix a dental issue you’re experiencing, make an appointment with your dentist to discuss the situation. And if you’re looking for an experienced, reliable, and friendly dentist in or near Springfield, Missouri, contact Wilkinson Dental. Our team will give you the personalized treatment you deserve using state-of-the-art technology. Schedule your first appointment today by calling 417-708-0556 or requesting an appointment online. We look forward to hearing from you!