Did your dentist recommend a dental crown in Wendell during your last appointment? If yes, consider yourself lucky. Not everyone is given a chance to save their teeth. Dentists will do everything they can to keep your natural teeth, but if you suffer from a severe infection that could potentially put your life in danger, your dentist will have no choice but to recommend extraction to stop the infection from spreading.
So, if your treatment plan involves a dental crown, you should be happy because it means you get to save your tooth, which is a good thing! What are dental crowns, and why do you need them?
Why Do I Need Dental Crowns?
What Is a Dental Crown?
Let’s start by defining what a dental crown is. A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap made from different materials. The cap is used to cover the affected tooth. It aims to restore your tooth’s structure, strength, and overall appearance.
Since it can be made from different materials, deciding which type can be challenging. To help determine what you need, consider the crown’s durability, strength, and cost. You can discuss this further with your dentist to help you decide what type of dental crown is best for you.
Why Do You Need One?
Dentists recommend dental crowns for several reasons, such as the following:
- A cavity that’s too large for a filling
- Cracked tooth
- Weak tooth
- Severely worn down tooth
- Strengthen a tooth following root canal
- To cover an implant
How Much Do Dental Crowns Cost?
Knowing the cost will help narrow down your options. Some crowns are expensive, while others are cheaper. The cost is determined by the material used and the size of the affected tooth. The most expensive crown is the gold crown, but it has a downside. Its glaring and bold gold color is easily noticeable. Nevertheless, it’s also one of the most durable crowns.
A cheaper version of a gold crown is an all-metal crown which consists of metal alloy. Another possible factor contributing to the overall cost is if the dentist performs extensive preparation before putting the crown in, like a dental implant placement or a root canal.
To get an actual price, talk with your dentist. Booking a consultation will let you know what options you have, what crowns are available in the office, and the final cost.
What Is the Process Involved When Getting a Dental Crown?
The process depends on the type of crown you’re getting, whether it’s a temporary crown type or a same-day crown.
Multi-Day Temporary Crown
- When you’re getting a traditional dental crown, you’ll need two appointments with your dentist.
- The initial consultation involves a thorough examination of the affected tooth. Your dentist may request an X-ray of your tooth. An impression is also taken.
- Some parts of the outermost layer of your tooth may be filed down or removed.
- Your dentist will get an impression of your newly trimmed tooth and surrounding teeth.
- You’ll be asked to wear a temporary crown over your tooth for protection
- The impression of your tooth is sent to the lab for fabrication. This step is the longest and can take several weeks.
- When your permanent crown is ready, you’ll be asked to return to the office so your dentist can cement the crown in place.
Same Day Dental Crowns
You won’t need temporary crowns when you’re getting same-day dental crowns.
- Digital images are taken of your mouth.
- Your dentist will make the dental crown in the office based on the digital scan.
- When the crown is ready, it will be cemented in place.
How Do You Take Care of Your Dental Crowns?
You must know how to take care of your dental crowns to maximize their lifespan. Here’s what you can do.
- Brush your teeth carefully yet thoroughly. Brushing should be done two times a day. If you have sensitive teeth around your crowns, we suggest you buy a toothpaste specifically for sensitive teeth.
- Flossing once daily, preferably before bedtime, is also ideal for keeping your dental crowns in excellent shape.
- As much as possible, avoid hard and chewy foods as these can cause your crowns to break, especially if you are wearing porcelain crowns since they are more fragile.
- If you grind your teeth at night, let your dentist know. Usually, they recommend that you wear a night guard to protect your teeth and dental crowns.
Do You Need a Dental Crown in Wendell?
The only way to know if you need a dental crown is to have your dentist check your tooth. At Tyron Family Dentistry, we offer a comprehensive oral exam to check your mouth for signs of trouble.
We provide a wide array of restorative dental treatments to improve oral health. Our office is well equipped with state-of-the-art technology to give you a comfortable experience. Contact us today for more information.
