Dental crowns are one of the most commonly used restorative dental treatments. They are used to restore the strength, shape, and appearance of a tooth that has been damaged due to decay, trauma, or wear and tear. Dental crowns are also used to protect a weak tooth from further damage. In this article, we are going to discuss everything you need to know about getting dental crowns.
What Are the Types of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are custom-made to fit over a tooth, helping to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. But not all crowns are the same. In fact, there are several different types of crowns available, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Porcelain Crowns
The most common type of dental crown is the porcelain crown, which is made from a combination of porcelain and metal. Porcelain crowns are extremely durable and can be color-matched to blend in with your existing teeth. They are also resistant to staining and can last up to 15 years with proper care. However, they can be more expensive than other types of crowns, and they can be more prone to chipping and cracking.
Metal Crowns
Metal crowns are a great option for those looking for a strong and durable dental restoration. Made from either gold alloy, base metal alloy, or a combination of both, metal crowns are incredibly strong and can last for many years with proper care and maintenance. Metal crowns are also resistant to staining and do not require color-matching, making them a great choice for those looking for a low-maintenance restoration.
Stainless Steel Crowns
Another option is the stainless steel crown. These crowns are made from a combination of stainless steel and other metals. They are extremely affordable and are often used as a temporary crowns while a permanent crown is being made. However, they are not as strong or long-lasting as other types of crowns and may need to be replaced more often.
What Is the Process of Getting a Dental Crown
The process of getting a dental crown typically takes two visits to the dentist. During the first visit, your dentist will examine your tooth and take an X-ray to determine if a crown is necessary. If a crown is needed, your dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay or damage and shaping the tooth so that the crown can fit properly.
Once the tooth is prepared, your dentist will take an impression of your tooth and send it to a lab. At the lab, a technician will use the impression to create a custom-made crown that is designed to fit your tooth perfectly. The crown is typically made of porcelain, gold, or a combination of both.
During the second visit, your dentist will apply a temporary crown while the permanent crown is being made. Once the permanent crown is ready, your dentist will remove the temporary crown and replace it with the permanent one. The permanent crown is then cemented into place and the dentist will check your bite to make sure it fits properly.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns can provide many benefits to your oral health. Here are some of the main benefits of getting dental crowns:
- Improve the appearance of your smile by covering up discolored, chipped, or misshapen teeth
- Improve the symmetry of your smile by restoring the natural shape and size of your teeth.
- Strengthen weakened teeth due to decay, trauma, or a large filling
- Improve your bite by restoring the natural shape and size of the tooth
Conclusion
Overall, dental crowns can provide many benefits to your oral health. From improving the appearance of your smile to protecting a weakened tooth, dental crowns can help to improve your overall oral health. For those in need of a dental crown, it’s important to speak to your dentist to determine the best course of action.
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