Understanding the Dental Crown Procedure

Exploring the Process of Getting a Dental Crown

Taking care of your teeth is essential for your health, and when it comes to saving a tooth that has been damaged, dental crowns can truly make a difference. If you’re interested in learning more about what a dental crown involves, the different types available, how the procedure works, or other options besides crowns, you’ve come to the spot! Let’s dive into it in a clear way.

Why your dentist may recommend a dental crown procedure

There are several reasons why your tooth may be better off with a dental crown.

Large Decay or Filling: If you have a large area of decay in your tooth or a large filling with decay around it that will significantly undermine the structure of the tooth so that it is not strong enough to endure the heavy forces placed on it by your strong jaw muscles during chewing. We use side to side chewing motions when eating, and this can cause fracture in a weakened tooth. A crown can protect the tooth, and help it regain the strength it needs to function in chewing.
Post-Root Canal Treatment: If the tooth has had a root canal, a channel has been made in the middle of the tooth stopping only a couple of millimeters above where the root split apart. If a tooth with a root canal is not protected with a crown, it is in great danger of fracturing in a way that would necessitate extraction. This is why it is standard for all molars that have root canals to also get a crown.
Fractured or Cracked Tooth: If the tooth is fractured and is sending a sharp pain when you are chewing, it is likely it needs to be held together with a crown. Cracked teeth occur during teeth clenching and grinding and can also happen when chewing something hard like a bone, popcorn kernel or hard candy. If your tooth has a shooting pain every time you chew on it, a crown may be recommended as part of the solution.

Types of Dental Crowns: Which is Right for You?

Porcelain Crowns: These are quite popular due to their appearance. If you’re concerned about how your teeth look, porcelain crowns are a good choice for your front teeth. They have a similar translucency to light that natural teeth have, making them blend seamlessly. Porcelain crowns are not recommended for molars however, because that can crack under pressure.
Metal Crowns: While they may not be the most appealing option, metal crowns are extremely strong and long-lasting. They are commonly crafted from materials like gold, platinum, or base metal alloys. Are ideal for molars that endure chewing.
Porcelain Fused to Metal (PFM) Crowns: Seeking the durability of metal with the aesthetics of porcelain? PFM crowns can provide the best of both worlds by combining strength with appearance, offering versatility in restoration. The esthetics at the gumline with porcelain fused to metal crowns because the metal substructure may show through the porcelain at the gumline.
Zirconia Ceramic Crowns: Similar to porcelain crowns, ceramic crowns work well for individuals with metal sensitivities. The makeup of Zirconia crowns make them a great esthetic alternative to metal crowns as they are strong like metal, but esthetic like porcelain. They are not as translucent as porcelain, so they are not used in the anterior teeth where esthetics are of utmost importance.

The Dental Crown Procedure: Step-by-Step

Numbing the Area: Before starting, the dentist will numb your tooth and the gums surrounding your tooth.
Removing Old Material and Decay: After the tooth is numb, all old restorative filling material will be removed from your tooth as well as any decaying tooth structure, leaving only the healthy enamel and dentin. Then
Buildup Placement & Tooth Reshaping: The void will be filled in using a durable material. This is called a buildup.After the buildup material is placed, the dentist will reshape your tooth removing the outer enamel layer. This will leave the proper amount of space for the new crown to cover and protect the tooth.
Taking Impressions: After reshaping the tooth, your dentist will take the impression to create a custom crown that fits perfectly. Sometimes digital scanning technology is used for molds.
Placing a Temporary Crown: To protect the tooth while waiting for the permanent crown to be made, a temporary crown will be placed by your dentist.
Fitting the Permanent Crown: Once the permanent crown is made, you will return to the dentist to have it placed.
Removing the Temporary Crown: During your visit, the temporary crown will be removed, the tooth will be cleaned and the permanent crown will be tried on.
Cementing the Crown & Final Adjustments: The fit and color of the new permanent crown will be checked by your dentist. Once everything looks good, the permanent crown will be cemented in place to ensure a comfortable bite. Any final adjustments needed for the crown to feel just right will be made by your dentist before completing the crown procedure.

Aftercare: How to Maintain Your Dental Crown

After getting a crown, you might be wondering how to properly care for it. Luckily, looking after a crown is quite similar to taking care of your teeth. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Maintain good oral hygiene: remember to brush and floss regularly even though your crown’s not a tooth. This helps prevent decay around the crown.
Be mindful of your diet: avoid biting on objects such as ice or candies that could potentially harm your crown. Sticky foods should also be avoided, as they can dislodge the crown.
Schedule regular dental checkups: It’s important to visit your dentist to ensure the health of your crown and the surrounding teeth.
Use a Night Guard: Daily chewing forces can put stress on your teeth over time. This normal wear and tear can start to let bacteria in the tiny seam between your crown and your tooth that can allow the tooth under the crown to decay again. This can be minimized by preventing teeth grinding with a night guard. A night guard can also help prevent chipping of porcelain to make your crown last longer.
Take Note of Any Discomfort: Should you experience any pain or uneasiness following the fitting of the crown, do not hesitate to reach out to your dentist. A fitted crown should feel natural and comfortable.

How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?

Dental crowns are pretty tough. Most crowns hold up well for 10 to 15 years, sometimes even longer, especially if you take good care of them. Metal crowns tend to have the longest lifespan, while porcelain ones may wear out faster if exposed to constant grinding or biting hard foods.

The better your dental habits, the longer your crown will last. That means brushing, flossing, visiting your dentist regularly, and skipping things like nail-biting or using your teeth to open stuff.

What Happens If You Delay Getting a Crown?

If your dentist has recommended a crown and you choose to delay the treatment, there are potential risks. A tooth that’s already weakened by decay or damage may continue to deteriorate. Over time, this can lead to:

Cracks or fractures that might make the tooth unrepairable.
Infection, requiring a root canal or even extraction.
Increased sensitivity or pain.
Higher costs due to more complex treatment later.
In short, postponing a crown can transform a simple fix into a more expensive dental issue.

Conclusion: Strengthen and Preserve Your Smile with a Dental Crown

Getting a dental crown is not the end of the world. In fact, a crown may strengthen your tooth to help it stay a part of your smile for many years to come. If you are worried about a damaged tooth, consult a qualified dentist to know your options and help you decide if a crown is the best fit.