Root canal therapy benefits show that most people want to have healthy and beautiful teeth that will last a lifetime. However, factors such as injury, decay, or age can damage teeth and require restoration. Dental crowns are one of the most common and effective solutions for restoring damaged teeth. This article will provide an overview of the different types of dental crowns, the procedure for getting a dental crown, and how to maintain and care for your dental crowns to ensure they last as long as possible.
Reasons for needing a dental crown
Dental Crowns are used to restore teeth that have been damaged due to decay, injury, or age and become too weak to function correctly. In such cases, dental crowns are used to reinforce the affected teeth, covering them entirely with a custom-shaped cap. Dental crowns are also used for aesthetic reasons, such as covering severely stained or misshapen teeth.
Different types of dental crowns
There are different types of dental crowns available, each with its advantages and disadvantages. The most common types of dental crowns are:
- Porcelain: These crowns are the most natural-looking and are typically used for front teeth restoration.
- Metal: These crowns are the strongest and last the longest.
- Porcelain fused to metal (PFM): These crowns are durable and can be used for both front and back teeth restoration. However, their appearance may not be as natural-looking as pure porcelain crowns.
- Ceramic: These crowns combine strength and aesthetics, matching the natural shade of teeth.
Procedure for getting a dental crown
The dental crown procedure typically involves the following steps:
Evaluation and preparation
The dentist will first evaluate the affected tooth and prepare it for the crown. They will remove any damaged or decayed parts and shape the tooth to fit the crown's shape.
Impressions and temporary crown
After preparation, the dentist will take impressions of the prepared tooth, which are then used to create a custom crown. The dentist will place a temporary crown on the prepared tooth before the permanent crown's completion.
Crown placement
Once the permanent crown is ready, the dentist will remove the temporary crown and fit the permanent crown to the affected tooth. Finally, the dentist will check for comfort, bite, and appearance before cementing the crown in place.
Maintaining and caring for dental crowns
To ensure that dental crowns last long, it is essential to maintain and care for them. Here are a few ways to care for your dental crowns:
Brushing and flossing
Brush and floss regularly to maintain good oral hygiene. This will ensure that plaque and tartar buildup are minimized, reducing the risk of gum disease and potential crown dislodgement.
Regular check-ups
regular dental check-ups with the dentist are crucial for maintaining dental crowns' integrity. The dentist will check for any signs of damage and perform necessary repairs to ensure the crown's longevity.
Avoiding hard and sticky foods
Hard and sticky foods can damage dental crowns. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid biting on hard objects such as pens, ice, or nails, and sticky foods like caramel or hard candy.In conclusion, dental crowns are an effective solution for restoring damaged teeth, and maintaining them properly can ensure they last a long time. By caring for your crowns, you will not only enhance your smile but also avoid the need for further dental restoration work in the future.