A crown (or cap) is a covering that encases the entire tooth surface restoring it to its original shape and size. A crown protects and strengthens tooth structure that cannot be restored with fillings or other types of restorations.
Although there are several types of crowns, porcelain (tooth colored crown) are the most popular. They are highly durable and will last many years, but like most dental restorations, they may eventually need to be replaced. Porcelain crowns are made to match the shape, size, and color or your teeth giving you a natural, long-lasting beautiful smile.
Reasons for crowns:
- Broken or fractured teeth.
- Cosmetic enhancement.
- Decayed teeth.
- Fractured fillings.
- Large fillings.
- Tooth has a root canal.
What does getting a crown involve?
A crown procedure usually requires two appointments. Your first appointment will include taking several highly accurate molds (or impressions) that will be used to create your custom crown. A mold will also be used to create a temporary crown which will stay on your tooth for approximately two weeks until your new crown is fabricated by a dental laboratory.
While the tooth is numb, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping the surface to properly fit the crown. Once these details are accomplished, your temporary crown will be placed with temporary cement and your bite will be checked to ensure you are biting properly.
At your second appointment your temporary crown will be removed, the tooth will be cleaned, and your new crown will be carefully placed to ensure the spacing and bite are accurate.
You will be given care instructions and encouraged to have regular dental visits to check your new crown.
FAQs
What is a dental crown and why might I need one?
A dental crown is a custom-made restoration that fully covers a tooth or the top of a dental implant. They are an option in the following types of scenarios:
- To rehabilitate a tooth threatened by a significant amount of dental decal
- To restore fractured teeth
- To cover a tooth after a root canal treatment
- To cover a discolored or poorly shaped tooth for cosmetic reasons
Does getting a crown hurt?
The procedure to place a crown typically involves local anesthesia to numb the tooth and surrounding gum tissue. This makes the process relatively pain-free. Some patients might experience some tooth sensitivity after the anesthesia wears off, but this typically subsides within a few days.
How do I care for my dental crown?
Taking care of your dental crown is not dissimilar to how you care for your natural teeth. You should brush twice a day, use dental floss daily, and attend your dental appointments for routine check-ups and cleanings for optimal oral health. In addition, you should avoid unhealthy dental practices, like consuming hard foods regularly and using your teeth as tools (e.g., to open packages). These tips can all help to prevent damage to your crown.
How long will my dental crown last?
With proper care, dental crowns can last between 5 to 15 years, or even longer. The longevity of the crown varies based on a few different factors, such as how well you care for your teeth and whether you subject your crown to potential damage through habits like chronic teeth grinding.
Are dental crowns safe? What are the risks?
While generally safe, the placement procedure for dental crowns does carry some risks. These can include increased sensitivity in the tooth, particularly to hot or cold temperatures, potential for gum inflammation if the crown margin does not fit well, and the rare chance of allergic reaction to metal crowns. Regular check-ups can help mitigate these risks by ensuring your crown remains in good condition.
Can a dental crown improve the appearance of my teeth?
Yes, crowns are often used for cosmetic enhancement. They are designed to mimic the color, size, and shape of your natural teeth, making them a great solution for enhancing the overall appearance of your smile, whether by covering stains, fixing misshapen teeth, or aligning slightly crooked teeth.
What should I do if my crown comes off or breaks?
If your crown comes off your tooth or breaks, it’s important to contact Dr. Rader immediately. Do not try to fix or reattach the crown yourself. Keep the crown in a safe place and bring it with you to your appointment. In most cases, the crown can be reattached or repaired, but sometimes a new crown may be necessary.
Are there alternatives to crowns?
Yes, there are alternatives to crowns depending on the specific dental issue. If a tooth is not severely damaged, options like fillings, inlays, or onlays might be considered. Veneers can be an alternative for cosmetic changes to the front teeth. Dr. Rader can provide guidance on the best option for your situation based on the condition of your teeth and your desired outcome.
