Dental Crowns: Your Questions Answered
Although some people don’t enjoy making visits to their family dentist, the truth is that regular dental visits can ensure your overall health and well-being. Unfortunately, not all patients keep up with those appointments — and in some cases, teeth may become fractured or need extra attention. A family dentist might recommend that the patient be fitted for a crown. But what exactly does this mean? And why is a crown necessary? We’re answering these questions and more in today’s post.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is essentially a prosthetic device (which looks like a fake tooth). It can either act as a cap on top of your existing tooth or screw into place as an implant. These crowns can be made from porcelain, ceramic, resin, stainless steel, or alloy metals and are created in dental labs. Single crowns are the most common restorative dental procedure, with roughly 2.3 million implant-supported crowns made each year.
Why Are Dental Crowns Necessary?
Your family dentist may recommend a dental crown for a number of reasons. Crowns are often used to protect or strengthen an existing tooth that’s fractured, weak, or otherwise decayed. Dentists also place crowns to restore a broken, misshapen, or discolored tooth in order to improve its appearance. In other instances, dental crowns may provide support for a dental bridge, replace a tooth after a root canal is performed, or to replace fillings that are too large for the tooth that remains. It’s a good idea to talk to your family dentist about why they’re recommending a crown. That way, you can gain insight into your own dental health and explore all options available to you.
How Long Do Crowns Last?
While temporary crowns are usually placed first, permanent crowns are either cemented to an existing tooth or placed as an implant. Crowns are actually meant to last, provided you take proper care of them. Certain materials used in crowns are more prone to damage than others, but many crowns can last anywhere from 15 years to a lifetime. Be sure to discuss with your dentist the ways in which your regular dental hygiene can prolong the life of your crown and keep your natural teeth in great shape.
What Happens If a Crown Becomes Damaged?
As mentioned above, certain materials may be more likely to become damaged than others. The most common reasons for broken or loose crowns involve decay to the underlying tooth, teeth grinding, jaw clenching, or cement deterioration. Chewing on hard foods should also be avoided, as this may cause a crown to break or become loose. If a crown does become damaged, however, it’s good to note that your dentist can repair dental crowns. Should you notice that your crown is damaged or feels uncomfortable, you should contact your dentist as soon as possible to fix the issue.
Now that you understand a bit more about dental crowns, you can feel confident discussing this possibility with your dentist. For further information or to schedule an appointment, please contact our offices today.