Dental Crown Information for the Ray Township Resident

A routine trip to the dentist should really be a biannual plan for everyone in an effort to get a proper cleaning and exam. Having said that, some people may have to see their dentist’s office more than twice to have procedures such as fillings, crowns, and root canals performed. If this is the situation for you, you may well be searching the net searching for an explanation of the procedure you’re about to undergo. It’s normal to be inquisitive, but there is no need to be afraid.

The most typical procedure is crowns, which are also called “caps”, and they are used to preserve or protect a damaged tooth. Dental crowns can be made of three different restorative materials (all-ceramic, porcelain-fused-to-metal, or gold), which material is chosen to create the crown will depend on a variety of needs including strength requirements, esthetic demands, and space available for the restoration.

The need for a crown develops when decay or damage to a tooth is too much to be helped with a veneer, or if a root canal has taken place. Depending on what material is chosen to make your crown, it will either be produced at the dental office, or in a laboratory. Prior to receiving the crown, it is typical to have a consultation visit where your dentist will go over preparation methods for the procedure and take impressions of your existing tooth in order to create the right sized and shaped crown. During this consultation, a temporary crown might be placed on the damaged tooth to protect it until final placement.

During a second appointment, the new dental crown will be placed and fastened in. Some clients may want a local anesthetic; however this is generally painless to most patients. The crown will be assessed by the dentist for how it is placed; making sure it properly fits the tooth and its neighboring teeth. You may be asked to look in a mirror to check the shape and color. Once you and your dentist are satisfied with the crown as a whole, the crown can be cemented into position and any extra dental cement will be scraped away by the dentist.

After the placement of a crown, your dentist will offer you with information regarding proper care for your new crown. Typical practices of brushing two times a day and flossing will help prevent the growth of plaque and gum disease. It’s always best to avoid chewing ice or other hard foods, grinding or clenching your teeth, and biting your fingernails, as these can lead to damage of the dental crown.

Dental Crown Materials

As mentioned earlier, crowns can be made of various materials according to the need of the individual.

All-ceramic crowns are generally more esthetically pleasing because the translucency of the material makes them look very similar to natural teeth. These crowns don’t require any metal and are able to use less material, making them a great option for a tight space in the mouth. The durability of the all-cement crown is good, but should not be used for people who have a tendency to grind or clench their teeth.
Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are the second most esthetically pleasing option. The metal on the inside of the crown takes away some of the translucency of the porcelain but contributes needed durability and support. It is essential to realize that as gum recession happens, the metal portion of the crown can become visible.
A gold crown is not as popular as it once was, mainly for esthetic reasons. Having said that, a gold crown has a lot to offer in durability and strength, especially for molars and those who clench or grind their teeth. Gold is a good choice substance when thinking about the wear and tear on the neighboring teeth, since it tends to be less abrasive than porcelain.