Dental Crowns FAQ
What is a dental crown?
Think of a dental crown as a cap that is put over your tooth. Starting at the gum line, a crown restores the tooth’s size, shape, and strength. It can also improve its appearance.
When do I need a dental crown?
There are many reasons why your dentist would suggest a crown, including:
- Protecting a weak or cracked tooth that no longer holds together
- Restore a badly worn or broken tooth
- Ensure a dental bridge stays in place
- Cover dental implants
- Cover severely discolored teeth
- Cover misshapen teeth or those with extremely large fillings
Talk to us if you believe you could benefit from a dental crown.
How long will the treatment take?
Once you and your dentist have decided that a dental crown is the best choice of treatment for you, you will need at least two more visits.
During the first visit, your dentist will re-examine your teeth and take x-rays of the roots and the bone surrounding the tooth in question. At this stage, it’s important to rule out any injury or infection to the surrounding tissues before the crown is put in place. If your dentist finds a problem, you may need root canal treatment first.
Assuming all is looking good, the dentists will numb your tooth and gums and prepare the tooth by filing it down to create space for the crown. Then, your dentists will use a paste or putty to create an impression of the tooth as well as the teeth above. You’ll also receive a temporary crown to protect the tooth.
During the second visit, your dentist will check the color and fit of your permanent crown and cement it under local anesthetic. Within a short amount of time, your bite will feel as good as new.
How long will my crown last?
Like any dental treatment, the longevity of your dental crown depends on your dental hygiene habits. Just because the remaining tooth has been covered it is not immune to decay or other dental health issues, such as gum disease. Flossing and brushing your teeth regularly will help you preserve your dental crown, and regular check-ups with your Panorama City dentist can help us identify potential problems early.
If you look after your dental crown, it can last as long as 15 years. You can extend its lifespan by not using your teeth to open packaging, biting your fingernails, or chewing ice, for example.
