What is a Dental Crown?
Also called a tooth crown, each one is like a protective hat cemented over a broken or decaying crown tooth that has lost its original shape to make it fully functioning again. They look beautiful in the form of replicating perfect, white teeth for more visible areas or can be slightly sturdier as a pure metal for less visible areas. Porcelain, resin, and ceramic materials are best for a realistic look. Resin can be used to save money but is less durable, while gold is more permanent and tougher than the other types.
Why Would I Need a Dental Crown?
A dental crown may be needed to effectively bite down on food so you can enjoy your meal without taking too long to break it down and improve your great smile! It improves and protects the existing natural tooth from further decay and potential removal, which is undesirable because natural teeth last longer than artificial ones. This is when a filling would not be effective because the tooth is worn down enough that it could not be held in place.
Pediatric Dental Crowns
A kid’s tooth crown is temporary when attached to an infected or decaying baby tooth. In this situation, protecting the tooth is even more critical to help the adult tooth grow well. Luckily, young kids are not bothered about their smile’s appearance, but you might be. So it makes sense to treat them like adults with the color choice of their dental crowns. When a kid needs a dental crown from a large cavity in an adult tooth, you would not expect the tooth to fall out naturally, just like other adult teeth.
How long does it take to get a dental crown?
Most crowns are completed in two visits over 1–2 weeks. The first visit prepares the tooth and places a temporary crown, while the second visit bonds the permanent crown once it’s ready from the lab.
Are dental crowns painful?
The procedure is generally comfortable. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area, and most patients feel pressure rather than pain. Mild sensitivity afterward is normal and usually resolves quickly.
How long do dental crowns last?
With proper care, dental crowns can last 10–15 years or longer. Regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental cleanings help extend their lifespan.
Can a crown be placed the same day?
Same-day crowns may be possible in certain cases, depending on your tooth and treatment needs. Our team can evaluate whether this option is right for you during your consultation.
Can I eat normally with a dental crown?
Yes. Once your permanent crown is placed and adjusted, you can eat normally. It’s best to avoid extremely hard or sticky foods to prevent damage and help your crown last longer.
Do dental crowns look natural?
All-porcelain crowns are designed to closely match the color, shape, and translucency of natural teeth. Most people won’t be able to tell the difference between a crown and a real tooth.
Dental Crown Aftercare
Dental crowns can last for ten years with good care by brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day. Less commonly known is that it is essential to avoid grinding your teeth, clenching your jaw, and consuming hard, brittle food or sticky food that can remain on the tooth for a long time, thus leading to more decay.
