Dental Crowns 101: Everything You Should Know

The world of dentistry covers a myriad of dental appliances and fixtures used to bridge the gap between oral problems and medical solutions. Modern dentistry continues to introduce newer innovations in dental practice to better treatment solutions. Even then, dental crowns have been used a lot in dentistry over the years. They play a significant role in correcting different dental problems, as is in this text.

Overview of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are tooth-shaped porcelain materials used as fixed prosthetics in dentistry to correct different dental problems. They cap the top of a tooth, particularly where it has been damaged. This is why they are a restorative treatment option, more than they are a cosmetic solution. However, in the end, you enjoy the cosmetic benefits of having tooth crowns installed.

Dental crowns are attached to teeth using special dental cement. Other than porcelain material, dental caps can also be made of different materials. As long as the material is sturdy enough to cover a damaged tooth and strengthen it without dire consequences on the health of a mouth, they are workable. The different types of dental crowns include the following:

• Ceramic or porcelain dental crowns – they are commonly used for capping front teeth. Since ceramic dental crowns are tooth-colored, a dentist can select a shade that closest matches that of your natural teeth.
• Gold alloys – with gold as the base of these dental crowns, gold alloys also feature other metals. They include copper among other metals. Gold alloyed dental crowns are sturdy and very durable. The best part is that they do not wear out the tooth or even the adjacent teeth. The only downside is that they are expensive because of the gold material.
• Porcelain-fused to metal – this dental crown is an addition of the porcelain crowns it offers a much stronger bond because the porcelain material is connected to a metal structure.

When Is A Dental Crown Needed?

Dental crowns can be used for any patient, regardless of age. Some of the situations that need dental crowns include:

• Decayed teeth
• Discolored teeth
• Missing teeth – usually used alongside dental bridges.
• Misshapen teeth
• Following root canal therapy

How Much Does A Dental Crown Cost?

The cost of a tooth crown differs, based on the material used to make it. The costs of dental crowns usually range between $800 and $1700. The good news is that part of the total cost of getting your dental crown treatment is covered by insurance. However, to be sure, make sure you inquire with your insurance before your treatment.

How Long Does A Dental Crown Last?

The lifespan of a dental crown is typically around 5-15 years. The better care you accord your dental crowns, the longer they should serve you. Patients who are deliberate about brushing their teeth regularly, flossing and watching what they eat have a higher chance of sustaining the dental crown for a long time. It also depends on the material used to create dental crowns. Some materials are sturdier than others, and, therefore, last longer.

How To Remove A Dental Cement from A Crown

A question frequently asked by patients is whether or not dental crowns are permanent. Technically, you can have either a permanent dental crown or a temporary one. Temporary crowns are made in a dentist’s office to cap a tooth before the permanent one is made. A permanent crown, however, takes a little more time to be created. It is made in a laboratory, with consideration for your mouth’s impressions.

The sealing ability of the dental crown installed on your teeth largely depends on the material of the dental crown, as well as the condition of the underlying tooth. Gold materials and metal alloys make the strongest dental crowns, which, with proper care, can last even a lifetime. The dental cement holds the crown in place. If there is a need to remove the crown, then instruments like ultrasonic are used.

The process involves scraping off the cement, similar to how tartar and plaque are scraped off of teeth. The cement removal can cause sensitivity on teeth, especially where the crown was a permanent one. However, pain and discomfort are minimal.