You know what a cavity is, and you’ve gone to the dentist for a cleaning. But what is a dental crown? And how do you know if you need a dental crown? At Strobel Family Dental, we perform dental crown procedures all the time to help our patients have strong, healthy teeth. Here’s everything you need to know about what dental crowns are and why they are helpful.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a custom-made cap designed to cover a damaged or weakened tooth. It helps restore the tooth’s strength, size, shape, and appearance. Crowns can be made from various materials, depending on the condition of your teeth and your needs. Often, they’re made from porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of these.
Do I Need a Dental Crown?
There are multiple situations that may call for a crown. Your dentist will recommend a treatment that fits your specific needs and situation. In general, though, you may need a crown if you have:
- A tooth with a large filling and not enough natural structure left
- A cracked, chipped, or broken tooth
- Severe tooth decay
- A weakened tooth after a root canal
- A dental implant that needs coverage
- Discoloration or misshapen teeth for cosmetic reasons
The Dental Crown Procedure
First step in getting a Dental Crown: Tooth Preparation
Getting a dental crown typically involves two visits: In the first visit, your dentist will need to prepare the tooth in order to create a crown that will be secure and fit naturally. During this visit, the dentist will reshape your tooth by carefully removing a thin layer of enamel. This will create enough space for the crown to fit comfortably over the tooth without feeling bulky or unnatural. If the tooth is significantly damaged or worn down, the dentist may need to build up the tooth structure using a filling material.
Once the tooth is shaped, the dentist takes impressions or digital scans of your teeth and mouth. This is used to create a precise model of your tooth that will fit seamlessly in your mouth. It’s important to have a perfect fit so that there are no problems later with your bite, gums, or surrounding teeth. The impressions are sent to a dental lab, where skilled technicians craft your custom-made crown from materials such as porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of materials. While you wait for your permanent crown to be made, the dentist will place a temporary crown over the prepared tooth so that you can eat and speak normally until your second visit.
Second Visit: Permanent Crown Placement
Your second appointment will be scheduled a few weeks after the first visit. Your temporary crown will be removed and the dentist cleans your tooth in preparation for your permanent crown. The dentist carefully examines the crown that was made for you to make sure that the fit, shape, and color match the surrounding teeth. Minor adjustments may be made so that you can have a comfortable bite and a natural smile. If the crown is made from porcelain or ceramic, the dentist ensures the shade blends seamlessly with your natural teeth for a flawless appearance.
Once the fit is perfect, the dentist cements the crown into place with a strong dental adhesive. The crown is then polished and checked for proper alignment. Your dentist will make sure it feels comfortable when you bite down.
Caring for Your Crown
With the permanent crown in place, your tooth is now fully restored! You’ll be able to chew, speak, and smile with confidence. With good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, your crown can last 10–15 years or more.
Make sure you maintain good oral hygiene so that your crown will last. Brush your teeth and floss daily and visit your dentist for regular checkups. Avoid excessively hard or sticky foods, as these could damage your crown.
Dental Crowns in Rexburg, Idaho
Dental crowns are a great solution for protecting and strengthening your teeth while maintaining a natural appearance. If you think you may need a crown, schedule a consultation at Strobel Family Dental to discuss the best options for you! With years of training and experience, we are here to answer any of your questions about dental crowns and serve you with any of your dental needs.