Are you looking to get straighter teeth easily? Perhaps you want to restore your damaged or discolored teeth? Ceramic crowns provide a perfect solution to these issues, blending aesthetics and function in one treatment option. In this guide, we will explore everything there is to know about ceramic crowns, from how they are made to their care and maintenance, as well as potential risks and considerations to keep in mind when choosing your treatment.
How Ceramic Crowns are Made
Ceramic crowns are custom-made to fit perfectly over your existing teeth, covering them like a cap. Here is a breakdown of how ceramic crowns are made:
Impression taking
The first step in creating a ceramic crown is to take an impression of your teeth. This impression serves as a blueprint for creating a model of your mouth. Your dentist will use a putty-like material to make the impression and send it to a dental lab.
Tooth Preparation
To create space for the ceramic crown, your dentist will need to remove a small amount of the tooth's structure. A local anesthetic is administered to numb the area, and the dentist uses a drill to shave off a portion of the tooth's outer layer.
Crown Design
The dental lab uses the impression to create a 3D model of your teeth to design the ceramic crown. The lab technicians carefully craft the crown to ensure it fits comfortably over your tooth and matches the color of the surrounding teeth.
Crown Milling and Firing
Once the design is complete, the dental lab uses a milling machine to carve the crown out of a block of ceramic material. The crown is then fired in a high-temperature oven, making it strong and durable. Finally, the crown is polished to a natural shine, providing a perfect fit over the tooth.
Care and Maintenance of Ceramic Crowns
Ceramic crowns are durable and can last up to fifteen years if properly maintained. Here are some tips to keep your ceramic crowns in good condition:
Daily Oral Hygiene
It's important to brush twice a day and floss daily to remove plaque and bacteria that can harm your teeth and gums. Avoid using abrasive toothpaste or a hard-bristled toothbrush as it can damage your ceramic crowns.
Regular Dental Checkups
Visit your dentist every six months for a checkup and professional dental cleaning. Your dentist will examine your ceramic crowns, check for any signs of wear or damage, and ensure they are properly seated.
Avoiding Hard and Sticky Foods
Ceramic crowns are strong, but they can chip or crack if you put too much stress on them by biting hard objects or eating sticky foods. Try to avoid chewing on ice, hard candies, or using your teeth to open packages.
Managing Teeth Grinding or Clenching
If you grind or clench your teeth, you might need to wear a mouthguard at night to prevent damage to your ceramic crowns. Talk to your dentist about your options for managing teeth grinding or clenching.
Potential Risks and Considerations of Ceramic Crowns
While ceramic crowns are an excellent choice for many people, there are some potential risks and considerations to keep in mind:
- Ceramic crowns can be more expensive than other dental treatments.
- The color of ceramic crowns cannot be adjusted once they are installed. Choose a shade that you are happy with before the installation.
- There is a small chance that ceramic crowns might fracture or become detached from the tooth.
- Some people may experience sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures after getting ceramic crowns.
In conclusion, ceramic crowns are an excellent option to get a healthy and beautiful smile. Follow the tips on care and maintenance to keep them in good condition and address any potential risks with your dentist. Choose your treatment today and enjoy a smile you can be proud of!