The Ultimate Guide to Dental Crowns: Everything You Need to Know About This Life-Altering Dental Treatment
Dental crowns are one of the most common dental treatments that people undergo to restore their smile, protect a damaged tooth, or improve their dental health. While dental crowns are nothing new, many people still have some questions about them. In this ultimate guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about dental crowns, from the types of crowns available to the procedure itself and aftercare.
Types of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns can be made from various materials, depending on the patient’s needs and preferences. The most common types of dental crowns include:
- Porcelain: A popular option for front teeth as they are durable and highly aesthetic
- Ceramic: They are natural-looking and can blend with your natural teeth color
- Gold Alloy: Known for its strength and durability, this type of crown is suitable for molars or teeth that require greater pressure
- Porcelain Fused to Metal: Combines the natural-looking porcelain with the durability of metals
The Dental Crown Procedure
The process of getting a dental crown requires a few visits to the dentist. During the first visit, the dentist will examine the problematic tooth, take x-rays, and prepare the tooth for the upcoming procedure. The dentist will take dental impressions or digital scans of the tooth and surrounding teeth, which the dental lab will use to fabricate the crown. In the meantime, the patient will wear a temporary crown and return the following visit to have the permanent crown placed and cemented in place.
Aftercare of Dental Crowns
After your crown has been placed, it’s essential to take care of it by practicing good oral hygiene. This includes brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and avoiding hard or chewy foods that can cause damage to the crown. Additionally, it’s crucial to maintain routine appointments with your dentist to ensure the crown remains in good condition.
Benefits of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns offer numerous benefits for dental health and aesthetics. With a dental crown, you can enjoy a beautifully restored smile that looks and feels natural. Not only does it enhance your appearance, but it also provides protection for weakened teeth, reinforcing their structure and preventing further damage. Moreover, dental crowns improve your chewing and biting functionality, allowing you to enjoy your favorite foods without discomfort. By addressing dental issues promptly, crowns also help prevent potential complications in the future, ensuring long-term oral health.
Dental crowns can be life-changing for patients suffering from a wide range of dental issues. By providing natural-looking, functional restorations, dental crowns can improve patients’ confidence while also protecting their dental health. If you have additional questions or want to learn more about dental crowns, contact a dentist like Ackerman Family Dentistry.
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