Everything You Need to Know About Getting a Dental Crown

Today, we're going to talk about an essential aspect of maintaining your oral health – dental crowns. If you've ever experienced tooth decay or damage, you may have heard the term "crown" thrown around as a potential solution. 

A dental crown is a type of prosthetic device that is designed to cover or cap a damaged tooth. It's essentially a custom-made cap that fits over your existing tooth, restoring its shape, size, and strength.

When Do You Need a Dental Crown?

When it comes to dental health, there are many reasons why you might need a dental crown. A dental crown is essentially a cap that goes over your tooth to protect and strengthen it. Here are some situations where getting a dental crown may be necessary:

1. You have a large cavity: If you have a cavity that's too big for a filling, your dentist may recommend getting a crown instead.
2. You've had root canal therapy: After having root canal therapy, the tooth can become brittle and more susceptible to cracking or breaking. A crown can help protect the tooth from further damage.
3. Your tooth is cracked or broken: If you've chipped or cracked your tooth, a dental crown can help restore its shape and function.
4. You want to improve the appearance of your teeth: Dental crowns can also be used for cosmetic purposes to improve the look of misshapen or discolored teeth.

If you're experiencing any issues with your teeth, such as pain or sensitivity, it's important to consult with your dentist, who will advise on whether or not getting a dental crown is right for you.

How is a Dental Crown Made?

The process of making a dental crown typically involves two visits to the dentist. During the first visit, the tooth that needs a crown is prepared by removing any decay or old fillings and shaping it to fit the crown. An impression of the tooth is then taken using either traditional putty or digital scanning technology.

This impression is sent to a dental laboratory where skilled technicians use it as a model to create the custom crown. The material used for crowns can vary depending on factors such as location in the mouth, desired aesthetics, and patient preference. Common materials include porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, and composite resin.

Once the crown has been fabricated at the lab, it is sent back to your dentist for placement during your second appointment. The fit of the crown will be checked before it's permanently bonded onto your tooth with dental cement.

Getting a dental crown made requires precision and skill from both your dentist and lab technician. However, with proper care and maintenance, a well-made dental crown can provide long-lasting protection for damaged teeth.

How to Care for Your Dental Crown

Caring for your dental crown is crucial to its longevity and maintaining a healthy smile. After all, you invested time and money into getting that perfect crown, so it's important to take good care of it.

The first step in caring for your dental crown is maintaining excellent oral hygiene. Brushing twice daily and flossing once per day will help keep bacteria at bay and prevent any decay from forming around the crowned tooth.

It's also a good idea to avoid eating hard or sticky foods that could potentially damage or dislodge the crown. Chewing on ice cubes or using your teeth as tools can also cause harm, so try to break those habits if you have them.

Regular check-ups with your dentist are essential when you have a dental crown. Your dentist can check the integrity of the crown and ensure there are no signs of decay or gum disease developing around it.

If you notice any discomfort, sensitivity, or looseness with your dental crown, don't hesitate to contact your dentist right away. Early intervention is key in resolving any issues before they become more serious problems.

By following these simple steps, you can maintain the health of your dental crowns for years to come!

Columbia View Dental is dedicated to providing you with safe, effective, and quality treatment. Contact our best dentist in The Dalles, OR, today at (541)296-5677 to learn more about our dental treatments. Get all your questions answered at Columbia View Dental, 1915 E 19th St, The Dalles, OR, 97058.