Is Dental Crown an Option for You? Here’s What You Should Know
Nobody probably doesn’t want to smile with yellowish, chipped, or missing teeth. Sometimes, even when talking or laughing, you might feel conscious about your smile. If this is something that bothers you and you want to get rid of it sooner, a dental crown may be an option for you.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped “cap” placed over a tooth to cover the tooth to restore its shape and size, appearance, and strength. The crowns are often used to support a dental bridge or protect a weak tooth from breaking. They are also used to cover teeth treated with root canal therapy.
Some people also need braces in addition to dental crowns. If this is your case, dentists advise you to get the braces first and then have the crowns placed over your newly aligned teeth (see braces Red Deer here if you’re nearby).
Types of Dental Crowns
Depending on the tooth’s location and the visible part, there are different types of dental crowns. Here are the most common types:
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crown
As the name suggests, this crown type is made by fusing porcelain with metal. It can be used for both front and back teeth. The major advantage of this crown is that it is strong and esthetically pleasing. However, the porcelain’s metal can sometimes show through, especially at the gumline.
Ceramic or Porcelain Crown
This crown type is made entirely of ceramic material, and they are best suited for front teeth. They are also matched to the color of your natural teeth.
Gold Alloy or Base Metal Alloy Crown
These crowns are made of gold alloy or other base metals. They are usually used for back teeth because they are stronger and can withstand biting and chewing forces better than other materials. The drawback of these crowns is that they are not as esthetically pleasing as ceramic or porcelain crowns.
How Is a Dental Crown Procedure Performed?
The dental crown procedure usually requires two visits to the dentist. During the first visit, the tooth will be prepared for the crown, and an impression or mold of the tooth will be made. This impression will be used to make the permanent crown. A temporary crown will be placed on the tooth to protect it until the permanent crown is ready.
The second appointment is when your dentist places the permanent crown on the tooth. They will remove the temporary crown and then clean, adjust, and fit the permanent one. Once you and your dentist are satisfied and happy with the fit, the crown will be cemented into place.
It’s essential to take care of your dental crowns like your natural teeth. Brush and floss regularly and visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. Depending on the materials and proper care, dental crowns may last up to 15 years.
Benefits of Dental Crowns
- Dental crowns have many benefits, including:
- Improve the appearance of your smile
- Restore the natural shape and size of a tooth
- Make it easier to chew and speak
- Protect a weak tooth from further damage
- Cover a dental implant
- Cover a discolored or misshapen tooth
- Hold together parts of a cracked tooth
Risks and Complications of Dental Crowns
Similar to any dental procedure, there are some risks and complications associated with dental crowns. These include:
- Allergic reaction to the crown materials (rare)
- Swallowing or inhaling the temporary crown (rare)
- Nerve damage (rare)
- Infection
- Gum disease
Before getting a dental crown, be sure to talk to your dentist about any risks and complications.
How Much Do Dental Crowns Cost?
A dental crown’s cost depends on the type of crown you choose, the tooth’s location, the severity of the damage, and whether or not you have dental insurance. Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are usually the most expensive, while gold alloy crowns are typically the least expensive.
That’s why choosing a dental clinic is important because not all clinics are created equal. Some will offer you a discount (such as this cosmetic dentistry Cambridge clinic) for getting multiple crowns at once, so it’s worth shopping around.
Your policy may cover a portion or all of the cost of the crown if you have dental insurance. Ensure to check with your insurer before getting the procedure to determine what is covered. Also, talk to your dentist about what type of crown is best for you and your budget.
Conclusion
Dental crowns can be an excellent option to restore your smile. They are strong, durable, and can improve the appearance of your teeth. However, talk to your dentist about the risks and complications before getting a dental crown.
Keep in mind that they’re not for a lifetime, but your dental crowns can last up to 15 years with proper care. Ultimately, look for a reputable and experienced dentist to perform the procedure, such as this cosmetic dentistry Cornwall clinic.
