Dixon Dental Center

Dental Crowns: What You Need to Know

dental crowns

Dental crowns offer a great restoration option for people with damaged teeth. They can restore teeth’s natural function, shape, and appearance.

If your dentist has recommended that you get dental crowns but you’re not sure whether they are the right choice for you, read on to find all the information you need to help you make the best decision. 

1. Dental Crowns Can Fix a Variety of Problems

Dental crowns protect your teeth when they are at a higher risk of being lost. If you have any of the following teeth problems, you are an excellent candidate for dental crowns.

  • Restoring a discolored or decayed tooth
  • Protecting a weak tooth 
  • Protecting a cracked tooth
  • Strengthening a tooth with a large filling and minimal tooth structure
  • Covering a tooth after a root canal procedure 
  • Covering a dental implant
  • Protecting a dental bridge

With dental crowns, you can fix your teeth problems now. If you wait too long, you may end up choosing a teeth replacement.

2. Types of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are available in a variety of materials including gold, porcelain, ceramic, resin, and stainless steel and each of them offers unique advantages. Gold crowns, for instance, are the strongest of all materials but they are costly and highly noticeable. Ceramic crowns are durable, affordable, and easily blend with natural teeth. The dentist can advise you on the best material for you depending on the position of your damaged teeth.

3. The Dental Crown Procedure

A crown procedure typically requires two appointments. The first appointment involves taking accurate teeth impressions that will be used to create your custom crowns. Next, the dentist prepares the tooth by removing any decay and shaping the tooth surface. Finally, they fit you with a temporary crown and ensure you have a comfortable biting ability. 

On the second appointment, the dentist removes the temporary crown, cleans the tooth, and carefully fits the custom crown on your tooth for spacing and biting accuracy.

4. Recovery After Dental Crown Procedure

After the anesthetic has worn off, it’s normal to experience some pain, sensitivity, and irritation but it should wear off within a few days to two weeks. Pain medication and rinsing with warm salt water will help relieve pain and swelling.

5. Dental Crown Lifespan

Dental crowns are made from resilient materials that allow them to give you lasting service. But let’s face it, they are not indestructible. However, well-fitted crowns that receive proper care can last between 5 to 15 years. 

6. Dental Crown Aftercare

Here are a few steps you can take to extend their lifespan.

  • Avoid harmful habits like improper oral hygiene, chewing on hard objects, and teeth grinding.
  • Attending dentist visits for regular cleaning to detect any potential problems that can degrade your crowns.

Contact Dixon Dental Center for Quality Dental Crowns 

Have you considered getting dental crowns? Talk to our dentists at Dixon Dental Center. We offer high-quality dental crown services that will leave you with a beautiful and lasting smile. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Creating Healthy Smiles Together at Dixon Dental Center, Idaho Falls, ID

We invite you to visit us for a thorough examination so you can make informed decisions about your dental health.