Dental crowns are one of the most common and most effective types of dental work available, which has contributed to their popularity with both patients and doctors. Their efficacy at repairing decay and damage to the teeth is quite astonishing. So, do you need a dental crown?
However, like any type of procedure, dental crowns and bridges are really only useful in situations where they are truly warranted. Sometimes, other types of dental work may be needed.
If you think that a dental crown might be exactly what you need to improve your smile and repair your teeth, take a look at this overview that can help you determine whether or not that is the case.
What Are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are a type of dental treatment that involves placing a tooth-shaped cap over a tooth that has become broken or damaged. A crown is designed to look and feel virtually indistinguishable from one’s real teeth.
Do You Need a Dental Crown?
There are several signs to look out for that might indicate that you need a dental crown of some type. They include things like the ones listed below.
- You have a lingering toothache that isn’t resolved using simple methods.
- You have a tooth that has become fractured or cracked
- You have a tooth that is heavily discolored or misshapen
- You have teeth that have become ultra-sensitive due to the enamel being worn down
- You would like to cover a dental implant or root canal-treated tooth
Ultimately, your dentist is probably the best guide in terms of advising you on whether or not a dental crown is the right course of treatment for the types of dental issues you are facing. Responding to their guidance in this way is the surest path forward for you in terms of having a successful treatment.
Types of Dental Crowns
Several types of dental crowns are available to those who are interested. Depending on the exact nature of the issues you’re facing, certain types of dental crowns may be more effective than others. The primarily utilized types of crowns are as follows:
- Metal Crowns: Metal crowns can be composed of many different types of metals. Some of the primary elements that are used include nickel and chromium.
- Pressed Ceramic Crowns: Pressed ceramic crowns have a hard inner core, which may make them slightly more resilient than other types of ceramic crowns.
- All-Ceramic Crowns: All-ceramic crowns are perhaps the most common type of dental crown that is utilized. These crowns very vividly imitate the appearance of one’s natural teeth, making them a great choice for those who might be self-conscious about appearing as if they have had dental work done.
- Porcelain-Fused-To-Metal Crowns: These crowns combine elements of porcelain and metal crowns to attempt to incorporate the best elements of both. They have the potential to last as long as metal crowns.
Your dentist can help you determine which type of crown is best for you based on a number of factors regarding the dental issues at hand.
What Occurs During Crown Installation
Receiving a dental crown usually involves multiple trips to the dentist. The events of the visits can generally be outlined like so:
- First visit: On your first visit to the dentist, your dentist will prepare your natural tooth to be fitted with a crown. This generally involves removing some of your natural enamel. After this, they make a series of dental impressions of the teeth which will be used to make the model of the crown. Finally, your teeth may be outfitted with a temporary crown to act as a placeholder until your real crown can be properly fitted.
- Second visit: On your second visit to the dentist, your actual crown will be outfitted to your teeth. This will involve removing your temporary crown, ensuring that the permanent crown is properly outfitted to your teeth, and finally bonding the new crown to the tooth it is intended for.
Dental crowns are considered a safe and effective way of repairing several different kinds of dental damage. Should you qualify for the treatment, there are few downsides to the procedure. That being said, there is some possibility that you may have to have a crown replaced should it become damaged or chipped.
The Best Dentist in Long Beach
iSmiles Long Beach is widely regarded as a highly trustworthy dentist in Long Beach. If you think that you are due for a dental crown or any other type of dental work, contact our office today to set up an appointment.
