What to Consider Before Getting a Dental Crown

A dental crown is a restorative solution designed to cover a person’s tooth or an implant with a cap that is similar in shape and size to a natural tooth. While the benefits of this procedure are partly cosmetic, it is often used in situations where a tooth is damaged or decayed. Before opting for this treatment, patients should understand what to expect from the surgery and know what options are available.
Factors with a dental crown
For patients with damaged teeth, there are often several procedures that could be used to address the problem depending on its severity and the location of the tooth. Here are factors people should consider and discuss with a dentist before moving forward with the treatment.
Purpose
There are several situations where a dental crown can be used as a restorative measure. While tooth decay can often be addressed with a dental filling, more severely decayed teeth may have holes too large to support a filling or may be visibly cracked or worn down. In these scenarios, a crown can help support and protect the tooth from further damage and also make it look more attractive.
Crowns are useful in situations where teeth are severely cracked or broken. Crowns are sometimes used in conjunction with other dental procedures, such as protecting a tooth after a root canal or topping an implant after it has fused with the jawbone. Sometimes crowns are used for primarily cosmetic reasons, including concealing discolored or misshapen teeth.
Procedure
For traditional crowns, the procedure takes place over the course of two separate appointments. During the first appointment, the dentist may take X-rays of the patient’s mouth and make a mold both before and after making any alterations to the tooth. Next, the outer layer of the tooth, called the enamel, is removed and covered with a temporary crown. It often takes a couple of weeks for a dental lab to use the impressions made during this appointment to create a permanent crown. Once finished, the permanent dental crown is cemented into the patient’s mouth during a second appointment.
Materials
There are several options to consider when choosing dental crowns:
- Metal and stainless-steel crowns are a durable option, but they do not offer the same cosmetic benefits as other materials; this alternative is often used on out-of-sight molars or as a temporary solution for primary teeth.
- All-ceramic crowns are designed to look similar to a person’s natural teeth, making them a popular choice for front teeth.
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns involve a metal crown with a porcelain outer shell; while this option is more durable than porcelain alone, it is common for the underlying metal to show along the gum line.
- All-resin crowns are an affordable option made from composite materials but are susceptible to damage.
Conclusion
Individuals interested in getting a dental crown should choose the option that fits their unique lifestyle and cosmetic goals. A dentist can offer guidance during the consultation process and answer any further questions the patient may have.
Request an appointment here: https://drcalldental.com or call Dr. Call Dental Center at (706) 425-6240 for an appointment in our Dalton office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Related Posts
A strong and stable dental restoration can replace your missing tooth. Many people suffer from tooth loss. Using removable dentures is a way to fill the dental space. This can prevent many dental issues from developing. Here are the dental restoration options available for your missing tooth.The dentist will assess the patient’s mouth and see…
A root canal removes the infected pulp, then cleans and seals the tooth. Many patients may be unsure if there is anything else they need to do after the root canal. The answer is yes; they will need a dental restoration to restore the tooth's functionality. Let us dive into why leaving a treated tooth…
Dental restoration services, formally known as restorative dentistry, are paramount to a person’s overall oral health. Dental restoration is the process of repairing teeth and restoring them to their original state, hence the name. This article will explore how restorative dentistry can prevent health problems, from tooth decay to misalignment and more.Decay, infection, and other…
Gum disease is a common yet serious condition that negatively impacts oral health if left untreated. The condition can result from plaque and bacteria buildup, starting with mild symptoms and leading to tooth loss. Knowing the stages of gum disease and when to seek treatment can help protect your gums and teeth.Gum disease, or periodontal…