Your Ultimate Resource: Understanding What a Dental Crown Really Is

Dental crowns are an excellent solution for repairing damaged or decayed teeth. Whether you have chipped a tooth , have severe tooth decay, or need cosmetic dentistry, a dental crown might be the right solution for you.

We’ll help you understand the different types of crowns , what the dental crown procedure consists of, and why you might need one.

Types of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are custom tooth-shaped caps that cover the entire tooth from the gum line upwards to restore its shape, size, and strength, and improve its appearance. They can be made from a variety of materials, and the type of crown used will depend on the tooth’s position, aesthetic needs, and the patient’s oral habits.

• • Porcelain Crowns (Ceramic Crowns): These crowns are made entirely of ceramic and are best for restoring front teeth because they look just like natural teeth, closely matching the color of your existing teeth.

• • Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns: These crowns are a strong and durable dental restoration that consists of a metal shell with porcelain fused on top. 

• • Composite Resin Crowns: A composite resin crown is a type of dental crown made from a blend of plastic and fine glass particles. This material is durable and resistant to fractures, but may wear down over time and doesn’t resist stains as well as porcelain crowns do.

• • Zirconia Crowns: This type of dental crown is made from zirconium dioxide, a very durable type of ceramic that provides an excellent balance of strength, aesthetics, and biocompatibility. 

• • Gold Alloys Crowns: Gold crowns are a mix of gold, copper, and other metal alloys, providing a very strong bond to the tooth, making it extremely durable and highly resistant to wear and tear. It’s important to note that people with allergic reactions to metal may not be a candidate for gold crowns.

Porcelain crowns are typically the most popular choice due to their ability to blend seamlessly with your existing teeth. This type of crown provides a durable, stain-resistant material that can mimic the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth. It’s a good option for those who have damaged their front teeth due to injury or decay.

Reasons You May Need a Dental Crown

Dental crowns can serve a variety of purposes. Here are a few common reasons you might need a dental crown :

• • To protect a weak tooth: Teeth weakened by decay or large fillings are prone to fractures. If the natural tooth cannot be saved with root canal treatment or other dental treatments like a filling, a crown can hold the weakened tooth together and prevent breakage.

• • To restore a broken tooth: A crown can effectively restore the shape, appearance, and functionality of a broken tooth.

• • To cover a dental implant: Dental crowns are often used as the final step in the  dental implant process , functioning as the visible part of the tooth.

• • Cosmetic reasons: If you have a severely discolored tooth or other cosmetic issues, a dental crown may be an excellent choice.

The Dental Crown Procedure

The traditional procedure for getting a crown typically involves two visits to the dental office: during the first visit, the dentist prepares the tooth, takes an impression of the prepared tooth to send to a dental lab, and places a  temporary crown. At the second visit, the dentist removes the temporary crown and uses dental cement to adhere the permanent crown to the tooth.

Same Day Crowns With CEREC

At Hello Family Dental, we offer state-of-the-art CEREC technology. With CEREC technology, the whole process—from preparing the tooth, taking digital impressions , designing, and fabricating the crown to placing the permanent crown—can all be done in a single visit. Since the permanent crown is made and placed on the same day, there’s no need for a temporary crown.

FAQs About Dental Crowns

How long do dental crowns last?

Depending on the crown type, they can last between 5 and 15 years. With good oral hygiene and regular dental visits, they can last for much longer. The life span of a crown depends on the amount of wear and tear the crown takes, your dental health, and whether or not you take proper care of the crown.

Is it painful to get a dental crown?

Local anesthesia is used during the dental procedure to numb the area, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. After the procedure, some patients might experience mild discomfort or sensitivity, which typically subsides within a few days.

Does a dental crown require special care?

Just like your natural teeth, crowned teeth need regular brushing and flossing to remove plaque and prevent decay at the gumline. Although they are very durable, they are not indestructible. Try to avoid chewing hard foods, ice, or hard objects like pens that could potentially damage the crown. Additionally, routine dental visits allow your dentist to spot any potential issues early and ensure the tooth crown is in good condition.

What should I do if I have a loose crown?

If you find that your crown has become loose, it’s important to contact your dentist as soon as possible. A loose crown can lead to discomfort, infection, or even loss of the tooth if left untreated. While you wait for your appointment, try to avoid eating hard or sticky foods that could potentially cause further dislodgement of the crown, and be gentle when brushing and flossing.

Can I use dental insurance to pay for a crown?

Dental crowns are typically considered a major restorative procedure, so most insurance companies often cover a percentage of the cost, usually between 50% and 80%, after your deductible is met.

Visit Hello Family Dental for Dental Crowns in Suwanee, GA

If you think you might need a dental crown or have any questions about the process, contact us for more information about dental crowns in Suwanee , GA. Your oral health is our highest priority, and we are committed to helping you maintain a beautiful, healthy smile.