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In 2019, there were over 2 million dental crown procedures in the U.S.
Dental crowns are used to prevent tooth decay, ease pain, and make sure you leave with a winning smile. Perhaps your dentist has discussed dental crowns but you’re unsure about what the procedure entails and whether it’s best for you.
Sound familiar? If so, you’ve come to the right place. Here are seven things to know about a dental crown procedure.
1. What Is a Dental Crown?
Dental crowns are a fixed device attached to a tooth or implant. They’re also called caps and fit snugly over a damaged tooth.
You may get a dental crown to improve your tooth’s appearance or restore the shape of a tooth. Many patients get dental crowns so they’re feel confident about their teeth.
If you’re interested, ask your dentist about the procedure but if your case is too severe then visit a prosthodontist. They should give you a list of reputable practices so you know the procedure will be worth it.
2. Why Crowns Are Used
There are many reasons a dentist may suggest dental crowns. It’s not uncommon for teeth to decay, crack, or chip, and luckily, crowns are the perfect remedy for fortifying weak teeth.
Crowns also offer support for a dental bridge which requires two healthy teeth on either side. If there’s only one strong tooth, then a dental crown can be installed so the bridge has support.
3. Different Types of Dental Crowns
Maintaining good dental crown health means finding the right material for you. One popular choice is metal that includes nick-chromium, cobalt-chromium, gold, and platinum.
Dentists use metal dental crowns because it’s a durable material that withstands chewing and biting so the tooth is fully protected. But a major drawback is that metal crowns are silver so they’re best suited for molars that are hidden.
Don’t worry if you’re allergic to metal, it’s possible to get ceramic or porcelain dental crowns that look like your original teeth.
It’s also common to get stainless steel dental crowns although these are usually a temporary option, known as a ‘stop-gap’. Dentists mainly use stainless steel crowns for children because it’s inexpensive and is one procedure.
This is because a stainless steel crown fits on a primary tooth that eventually falls out, along with the crown.
Or consider porcelain-fused-to-metal if you want the crown to match the color of your other teeth. But this type of crown doesn’t have the strength of an all-metal crown so patients may discover breaking or chipping.
Another option is resin, a cost-effective option, but they can break under constant pressure.
4. The Cost
You must have a consultation with your dentist so they can break down the costs. Although it’s tempting, don’t choose the cheapest dental crown procedure because you get low-quality materials, discomfort, and poor service.
It’s important to know an estimated dental crown cost before consulting your dentist. The cost depends on a range of factors like your desired material, insurance, and whether you need additional dental procedures.
For instance, if your tooth is completely damaged then you may need a root canal before the dentist can apply a dental crown.
But, on average, a dental crown can cost up to $1,700 but the results are well worth it.
5. Candidates for Dental Crowns
“Do I need dental crowns?” You wonder.
Apart from aesthetic purposes, your dentist may suggest dental crowns to improve your oral health. This may happen if you can’t chew food, have misaligned teeth, or the tooth’s surface is damaged because you’re prone to grinding them.
Dental crowns may also be used to solve a genetic issue like extraordinarily small teeth as they serve as extra protection.
6. The Procedure
Looking for dental crown procedure tips? Then we’ll break the process down for you.
First, the dentist will take digital photos of your teeth and use that to create a crown. The process takes around two hours.
When the crown is ready, your dentist will cement it over your damaged tooth and the process will take around 4-hours. But it’s important to note, not all dentists have the technology to do this so you may have to make several visits.
7. Common Dental Crown Issues
Once the dentist has installed your dental crown, you must maintain good aftercare. For instance, avoid sticky or hard food as it may crack especially if you have porcelain.
Many patients are hesitant to eat chewy food but eventually, you can introduce it into your diet as your confidence in the dental crown increases.
You must also be careful while brushing. Choose a toothpaste that’s designed for sensitive teeth if your crown or the surrounding teeth hurt.
If you’re prone to grinding or clenching your teeth, your dentist may suggest a nightguard to protect your crown.
That’s Everything About the Dental Crown Procedure
Now you know seven things about the dental crown procedure from whether you’re a candidate to the aftercare instructions.
Dental crowns restore your confidence if a tooth is damaged, discolored, or weak. Before booking the procedure, consult with your dentist to decide which material is best and whether you need additional work.
Once installed, be mindful of what you eat, maintain good oral hygiene, and contact your dentist if there are any issues. Good luck!
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