A dental crown, a restorative service, is a cap placed on a damaged tooth by one of our dentists. Crowns are helpful in protecting your tooth and restoring its functionality. These are used in response to infection or other tooth damage as well as following certain dental procedures. There are several different types which each have their pros and cons. When you meet with our dental professionals at Summit Dental Group, they will explain the procedure and consult with you on the best material to use.The Importance of Crowns
Crowns are a great option for repairing tooth damage and protecting your tooth from further damage or infection. They are used in a variety of situations such as covering a cavity, injuries, or tooth breakdown, following a root canal, and preparing for dental bridges or tooth implants. Crowns mimic your natural tooth so you can have normal functioning for eating, drinking, and other everyday activities.
Types of Crowns
Crowns come in four different types of materials including ceramic, porcelain fused to metal, gold alloys, and base metal alloys. Ceramic crowns blend very well with natural teeth, but they tend to be less durable than other types. Porcelain and porcelain fused to metal crowns also blend well with your natural teeth and are stronger than ceramic. Gold and base metal alloy crowns are the strongest types you can get, but they do not blend well with natural teeth.
There are a few factors to consider when deciding a material and your dentist can guide you through this process. Some considerations include cost, function, tooth location, gum position, amount of natural tooth remaining, and color of the surrounding teeth.
In addition to the different materials, you can also get different types of crowns. For instance, you may need a full crown or just a partial, depending on the extent of the damage. You may also get a temporary crown with a basic adhesive while waiting for a permanent crown to be made.
Process
Most crowns take more than one visit to complete, but this may differ depending on your specific circumstance. In general, the first appointment will involve your dentist taking x-rays and making a mold of the tooth needing a crown. This is done so that the permanent crown matches your teeth and gives you the best look and functioning possible.
The tooth is then filed and part of it may be removed. Your dentist will make an impression of the trimmed and surrounding teeth which, again, ensures that the permanent crown matches. You will then get a temporary crown placed with a simple adhesive. This will not match your tooth perfectly, but it serves its purpose while you wait for the permanent crown to be made.
For your second appointment, you will get the permanent crown placed. This is made in a lab using the impression taken at the first appointment. This crown is cemented into place so it is more durable and functional than a temporary crown. From start to finish, this process can take several weeks.
If you have any questions or are in need of a crown, contact Summit Dental Group today.
FAQs
What is a dental crown?
A dental crown is a cap placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and functionality. Crowns are commonly used to protect a tooth after decay, injury, or procedures such as a root canal.
Why would I need a dental crown?
Dental crowns are used for several reasons, including repairing a damaged or decayed tooth, protecting a tooth after a root canal, covering a large cavity, restoring a broken tooth, or serving as a support for dental bridges or implants.
What types of materials are used for dental crowns?
Dental crowns can be made from ceramic, porcelain fused to metal, gold alloys, and base metal alloys. Ceramic and porcelain crowns blend well with natural teeth, while gold and base metal alloys are the strongest but less aesthetically pleasing.
What is the process for getting a dental crown?
The process typically involves two appointments. During the first visit, your dentist will take x-rays, prepare the tooth by filing it, and make an impression for the permanent crown. A temporary crown is placed until the permanent one is ready. At the second visit, the permanent crown is cemented into place.
How long does it take to get a dental crown?
The process of getting a dental crown usually takes a few weeks. After the initial appointment, it takes time for the lab to create the permanent crown, and then it is placed during a second visit.
What is the difference between a temporary and permanent crown?
A temporary crown is a short-term solution placed with basic adhesive while the permanent crown is being made. It may not match your natural teeth perfectly and is less durable. A permanent crown is custom-made for a perfect fit, appearance, and long-lasting durability.
