Imagine going to your dentist for a preventative exam and they tell you that you need to make an appointment for a crown. But what is a dental crown procedure? As a trusted family dentist in New Orleans, Dental Arts of New Orleans is here to break down the top reasons for receiving a dental crown, what to expect during the procedure, and the benefits of crown placement.
A Brief Guide To Dental Crowns
Hearing that your dentist recommends a crown may sound scary and overwhelming, but this procedure is extremely common and benefits countless patients.
But what is a dental crown procedure exactly? It’s a form of tooth restoration that involves putting a custom-fit, lab-created porcelain or metal “cap” over your existing tooth so that you can continue to have a bright, healthy smile. Having a protective covering over a previously-damaged or previously-decayed tooth allows you to keep smiling and chewing with confidence while preventing other dental issues.
Why Do People Need Dental Crowns?
Dentists may recommend dental crowns for several reasons. The ultimate goal of crown placement is to protect the existing tooth and prevent tooth loss. Common reasons why you might need a dental crown include:
- You have a cracked or broken tooth.
- You experience extreme tooth decay.
- You need to hold a removable partial denture in place.
- You have just had root canal therapy.
In most cases, dentists perform crown procedures as a form of tooth restoration to protect compromised teeth. However, a crown might benefit you for aesthetic reasons if you have badly stained, worn, or chipped teeth.
Understanding the Crown Placement Process
What is a dental crown procedure, and how does it compare to other common dental procedures? Unlike tooth extraction (which the dentist can perform right away), you’ll have to make 2 appointments for a dental crown.
The first appointment focuses on tooth preparation and involves removing minimal tooth structure to allow proper space for the new crown. You’ll receive a local anesthetic at this time, so you won’t feel any discomfort. Dentists then use their intraoral digital scanner or take a traditional impression of the prepared tooth that will serve as the basis for your custom crown.
You will receive a temporary crown to protect the tooth until the permanent crown comes back from the dental laboratory. Below is a list of commonly used crown materials:
- Porcelain
- Ceramic
- Zirconia
- Metal like gold, nickel, or chromium
Once ready, you’ll come back for a second appointment and let the dentist place the permanent crown around your tooth.
How To Care for Your Dental Crown
You might experience some tooth sensitivity immediately after crown placement but this should subside as you become used to your new crown. The average lifespan of a crown is anywhere between 5 and 15 years as long as it is maintained properly to avoid cavities or gum disease. Crown maintenance involves:
- Brushing and flossing: Bacteria can build up beneath the crown and compromise your teeth if you don’t brush and floss every day.
- Attending regular cleanings and dental exams: Your dentist will check for any changes in your teeth and monitor signs of decay that may require crown replacement.
- Avoiding hard or sticky foods: Biting on hard objects can damage the crown while chewing soft, sticky foods make it difficult to keep the crown clean and can dislodge the crown.
If you follow these tips, you’ll get the most out of your dental crown for years to come.
Preserve Your Smile and Dental Health With Dental Crowns
What is a dental crown procedure? It’s an excellent way to preserve your smile and protect the health of your teeth. If you have other questions regarding this tooth restoration treatment or ways to achieve optimal oral hygiene, reach out to the knowledgeable team at Dental Arts of New Orleans. We specialize in family and cosmetic dentistry and remain committed to giving you a beautiful smile. To make an appointment, contact us online or call our office at (504) 394-5330. Discover how we can help you get a beautiful, healthy smile today.
