Do I need a dental crown? Read on and we’ll help you answer that question.
What Is a Dental Crown?
You may know a dental crown by its other name, a cap. It’s a tooth-shaped cover that is put over an existing tooth in order to improve your smile. Dental crowns are made of a number of different materials. The kind of material used is dependent upon what kind of dental issues you have and where your crown will be placed. Permanent crowns are made in a dental lab of zirconia, metal, porcelain fused metal, porcelain fused zirconia, and ceramic. If you need a crown for a tooth in the front of your mouth, it’ll often be made of ceramic. This material looks like a natural tooth and can match the color of your other teeth. If you need a dental crown for a tooth in the back of your mouth, it will often be made of metal because it’s a stronger material.
How Long Do They Last?
Dental crowns last from five to fifteen years, with the average crown lasting about seven. The length of its life span depends on a number of factors. These include whether you grind your teeth, how well you maintain your oral health habits and how much wear and pressure the crown has been under. You can extend the life of your crown by brushing your teeth every day and flossing at least once a day.
How Are They Placed?
The process for placing a dental crown begins with your dentist filing down the damaged tooth so that the crown can fit nice and snug on top. Next, they’ll take an impression of the tooth. This is sent to a dental lab so that a permanent crown can be custom made just for you. While you are waiting for your permanent crown, you’ll get a temporary crown to wear for a week or so. When the permanent crown is ready, the temporary crown will be removed and the permanent one will be cemented to your tooth.
Do I Need a Dental Crown?
There are many reasons why you would need a dental crown. One common reason is that a tooth has been damaged by decay and needs a crown to support it. You might also need one if your tooth is worn down, cracked or broken. Crowns are used to support a tooth with a large filling in which most of the natural tooth is gone. Crowns cover dental implants and keep dental bridges in place. These reasons improve the functionality of your teeth but crowns can also improve the appearance of your smile. They are a great way to cover a misshapen or discolored tooth.
Helotes Family Dentistry Can Help
If you think you might be in need of a crown, give us a call to schedule a consultation. We can help you decide.
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