Dentists use dental crowns to cap a tooth that has lost its enamel. The crown is used to protect the tooth, provide a stronger chewing surface, and restore its normal shape. Crowns can be made out of metal or porcelain or resin or ceramic, or a combination of materials.
If your dentist has recommended that you get a dental crown but are apprehensive because you are unsure of how dental crowns work, this article is for you.
What Are Dental Crowns and How Do They Work? A Guide
A dental crown is a cap that is placed over the tooth. The crown serves as a covering that not only prevents further damage to the tooth but also restores its shape and protects it from further decay. The dental crown can be made of metal or porcelain or ceramic or resin, or a combination of materials.
How Do Dental Crowns Work?
Dental crowns are cemented over the tooth. The cement helps to bind the crown to the tooth and make it a permanent fixture. The base of the dental crown is thin and fits over the tooth, while the top of the crown is thicker. This is because the crown has not only a functional purpose but also a cosmetic purpose. The dental crown is used to close the gap and make the smile look more uniform, thus improving the aesthetic appeal of the teeth.
What Materials Are Dental Crowns Made of?
Dental crowns can be made of porcelain or metal. They can do the same job of restoring the tooth. The choice of materials is usually made by the dentist depending on what would be best for the patient. If a patient has a metal allergy, it might be best to use porcelain. However, if there is not enough bone to support a metal cap, ceramic crowns might be a better choice.
Is the Process Painful?
The process of getting a dental crown is relatively painless. However, the process of removing old fillings can be painful. When the dentist makes a mold of the teeth, a temporary crown is placed over the tooth. The mold is then sent to the dental lab, where the crown is made. The lab then sends the crown to the dentist, who attaches it to the tooth and polishes it to shape. The process usually takes two weeks.
What Happens After the Crown is Attached?
Once the crown is attached, the dentist will polish the dental crown and make sure that it is in the correct position. A temporary crown will be placed over the crown so that the patient can use the tooth while the crown is being made. Once the crown is made and polished, the temporary crown will be removed, and the dentist will attach the permanent crown. The process usually takes two visits: one for taking the mold and the second for attaching the crown.
Conclusion
You can now understand how dental crowns work, and you can consult the dentist if you are ready to get a dental crown. If you have further questions, direct them to your dentist, and they will help you have peace of mind about the procedure.
If you find yourself needing dental crowns, come to Pike District Smiles. We offer comprehensive dental checkups, kid’s dentistry, root canals, periodontal care, dental implants, Invisalign, and more.
