Macomb Township Residents Are You in Need of a Dental Crown

Macomb Township Residents, Are You in Need of a Dental Crown?

A routine visit to the dentist really should be a biannual plan for everyone so that you can have a proper cleaning and exam. Though, some people may have to go to 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 be scanning online looking 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 common procedure is crowns, which are also referred to as “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 materials are decided on to create the crown depends on a variety of needs including strength requirements, esthetic demands, and space available for the restoration.

The necessity for a crown occurs when decay or damage to a tooth is too much to be helped with a veneer, or if a root canal has taken place. Based on what material is chosen to make your crown, it will either be made 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 make the proper sized and shaped crown. During this consultation, a temporary crown might be placed on the damaged tooth to safeguard it until final placement.

During the second appointment, the new dental crown will be placed and fastened in. Some people may need a local anesthetic; but this is generally painless to most patients. The crown will be checked by the dentist for the way it is placed; ensuring that it properly fits the tooth and its neighboring teeth. You might be instructed to look in a mirror to check the shape and color. Once you and your dentist are pleased with the crown as a whole, the crown will be cemented in place 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 about proper care for your new crown. Common practices of brushing twice a day and flossing will help to prevent the growth of plaque and gum disease. It is advisable to avoid eating 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 stated earlier, crowns can be made of several materials based on the need of the individual.

All-ceramic crowns are usually more esthetically pleasing as the translucency of the material causes them to look very similar to natural teeth. These crowns do not require any metal and are able to use less material, making them a great option for a restricted space in the mouth. The durability of the all-cement crown is good, but really 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 gets rid of some of the translucency in the porcelain but provides needed durability and support. It is essential to remember that as gum recession occurs, the metal portion of the crown may become visible.
A gold crown is not as popular as it once was, mainly for esthetic reasons. Still, 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 material when thinking about the wear and tear on the neighboring teeth, since it tends to be less abrasive than porcelain.