If you’re considering getting a dental crown, you probably have many that are dental crowns.
A dental crown is a prosthetic device that is placed over a tooth. It is used to restore the tooth’s function and appearance.
Dental crowns are made of different materials, such as metals, porcelain, or ceramic. The good news is that now you can get a customized dental crown to match the color and shape of your teeth.
What are they used for?
Dental crowns are used to:
- Restore a tooth that has been damaged because of decay or injury
- Strengthen a tooth that has been weakened by cracked fillings or wear
- If a tooth has a large filling, dental crown support it.
- Cover a dental implant
- Improve the appearance of a decayed or chipped tooth
- Cover a tooth that has had a root canal procedure
How are dental crowns placed?
Dental crowns are placed during two office visits. During the first visit, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping it to accommodate the crown.
Then, the dentist will take an impression of the tooth. This impression will be used to create the custom dental crown.
A temporary crown will be placed over the prepared tooth until your permanent crown is ready.
During your second office visit, the temporary crown will be removed and the permanent crown will be cemented in place.
How long do they last?
Nothing lasts forever. However, if you take proper care of your dental crown, it may last for many years. This said, keep in mind that normal wear and tear over the years is inevitable.
Types of Dental Crowns:
There are three main types of dental crowns:
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) dental crowns: PFM dental crown are made of metal covered with porcelain. They are strong and durable and can be used on teeth that receive a lot of chewing force. However, they are not as natural looking as other types of dental crown.
- All-ceramic or all-porcelain dental crowns: These types of dental crowns are made entirely of ceramic or porcelain. They are more natural looking than PFM dental crown, but they may not be as strong. They are often used on teeth that do not receive a lot of chewing force, such as front teeth.
- Gold alloy or base metal alloy dental crowns: Gold alloy and base metal alloy dental crown are made of metal covered with porcelain. They are strong and durable, but they are not as natural looking as other types of dental crown. Gold alloy and base metal alloy dental crowns are often used on back teeth that receive a lot of chewing force.
Now that you know more about the different types of dental crown, let’s take a look at their benefits.
The benefits and risks associated with dental crowns:
- Dental crowns can improve the function of your teeth: If you have a cracked tooth, a tooth that has been worn down, or a tooth with a large filling, you may have trouble chewing or speaking properly. Dental crown can help restore your teeth’ function by protecting them from further damage and restoring their original shape.
- Dental Crowns can improve the appearance of your smile: If you have misshapen, stained, or discolored teeth, you may feel self-conscious about your smile. A dental Crown can help to improve the appearance of your smile by hiding these imperfections and matching the color of your natural teeth.
Now you may be wondering that are there any risks or side effects associated with dental crowns.
There are some risks and side effects associated with dental Crowns:
1. Infection: There is a small risk of infection at the site where the dental Crown is placed. You can minimize the risk by taking antibiotics before and after the procedure.
2. Allergic reaction: Some people may be allergic to the materials used in dental Crown, such as metals or ceramics. If you have an allergy to these materials, you may experience swelling, itching, or redness at the site where the Crown is placed.
3. Discomfort or sensitivity: you may experience sensitivity a few hours after the procedure as the anesthesia begins to wear off. If the tooth that has received the crown still has an active nerve under it, this may cause sensitivity or pain. The best in such a scenario is t start using a toothpaste that controls sensitivity in teeth. However, if you experience sensitivity while you bite, this may be because the crown is too high. Fret not, consult your dentist and he will fix it.
4. Chipped crown: crowns that are made of porcelain or porcelain-infused metal are prone to chip. If the chip is minute, it can be fixed with resin while the crown remains intact. However, if the chip is extensive, you may need to change the crown.
5. Loose crown: sometimes the cement used to fix the crown wears off. This causes the crown to loosen up. It also provides grounds for bacteria to grow and cause tooth decay and gum infections. Consult your dentist if you feel the crown is loosening up.
Bottom line:
By now, you must be having a lot of information about dental crown. However, it is best to talk to your dentist in detail before confirming if you need to have a crown and if yes, then what type of crown will suit you the best?
Discuss in detail all the pros and cons associated with the procedure and also the costs involved.
If you are looking for a trustworthy dental clinic with some of the best dentists in Karachi, Sakrani dental clinic should be your go-to place.
The experts at Sakrani dental clinic will guide you at every level of your procedure starting with an in-depth consultation session.
