Dental crowns are used for both restorative dentistry and cosmetic purposes. They are a very popular dental treatment that can provide lasting results for the stability of your dental health. Dr. Chahal places all types of dental crowns to meet the varying needs of our patients at our family dental office. Crowns can be made from a variety of materials, chosen specifically to suit your needs and aesthetic goals.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown fits over the entire tooth like a cap. Your dentist will permanently cement it to the affected tooth. The purpose of a crown is to protect and strengthen a tooth that has some damage. Most tooth crowns resist stains and decay. They can last many years if you take good care of your oral health. Dentists also use crowns to cap a dental implant to replace a single tooth or to support and protect a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy. This important dental restoration offers lasting results that will look like a natural tooth.
Dentists place dental crowns to treat and address a wide range of concerns. They provide custom, natural-looking, and lasting results that will stabilize tooth structure. Dr. Chahal may recommend a dental crown for the following reasons:
- Damaged teeth: chipped teeth, broken teeth, and cracked teeth can be restored with a dental crown.
- Discolored tooth: in the case of a single tooth that is stained or discolored, a dental crown that is matched the rest of your smile can bring balance to your appearance.
- Root canal: after a root canal, a dentist may choose to place a dental crown to support and strengthen the tooth and minimize the risk of loss down the road.
- Dental implant restoration: a custom dental crown is the final piece of a single dental implant, serving as a prosthetic tooth to complete your smile.
The Dental Crown Process
Dr. Chahal provides same-day crowns using the CEREC system. The first step is an exam and consultation to discuss your overall needs. We will also identify the most suitable type of crown and material to use. Dr. Chahal will take digital x-rays if she needs to and prepare the tooth. She will need to remove the decay and damaged structure.
The next step is to take dental impressions of the prepared tooth for designing and fabricating the new crown. Your custom crown will be made in a dental lab to Dr. Chahal’s specifications and color matched to your natural teeth. Until your permanent crown is ready, your dentist will place a temporary crown to protect the tooth. Once complete, we will contact you to schedule a second visit for the placement of the new crown.
Dr. Chahal will work with you to ensure that the final restoration is comfortable, making any necessary adjustments before permanently attaching it to the tooth. She will then secure and polish it for a smooth, natural texture and appearance.
It is fairly simple to care for a dental crown. You can care for it along with your natural teeth during daily brushing and flossing. Our team can demonstrate how to floss around the new crown and will monitor the integrity of the restoration during your routine dental visits. With good oral hygiene and preventative dental care, your dental crown will last for many years.
Dental Crown FAQs
How long does it take for a dental crown to feel normal?
It typically takes a few days for patients with dental crowns to adjust to the feeling of it. Depending on the patient some people report it taking 2 days, while others may say it took them 4 to have their mouth feel back to normal. If discomfort continues past a week after your procedure, you should call your dentist and schedule an appointment to have the crown checked.
Do crowns ruin your teeth?
Your dentist will secure the crown to your tooth with dental cement. It may wash away over time which can cause the crown to become loose and shift in your mouth. This can let bacteria and plaque work their way beneath the crown and can cause infections and tooth decay.
How often do you need to replace tooth crowns?
Dental crowns are a semi-permanent solution, but they do not last forever. On average crowns last between five and fifteen years. After this, your dentist will need to replace or repair them.
What age do people get crowns?
Tooth crowns are for people of various ages who have severe tooth decay, cracked or broken teeth, or other dental problems that a dentist cannot treat with more conservative options such as fillings. The specific age at which someone may need a crown can vary depending on their dental health, habits, and genetics. In general, however, people may need crowns as they get older, particularly as they reach middle age and beyond.
When does a patient need a tooth crown?
A patient may need a tooth crown if they have a tooth that has significant damage or decayed. A crown is a cap that fits over the tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength, and to improve its appearance. A patient may need a tooth crown when they have had significant tooth decay or cracked or broken teeth. Patients could also choose a tooth crown for cosmetic purposes to improve the appearance of misshapen or discolored teeth.
Can I eat with a dental crown?
Yes! You should be able to eat normally with a dental crown. The crown acts as a replacement for the natural tooth structure and functions just like a normal tooth. However, you should avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can potentially damage the crown. If you maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly, you can prevent any potential issues with the crown or underlying teeth.