Everything You Need to Know About Dental Crowns

Undergoing an unfamiliar dental procedure can feel unnerving. It’s important to learn about the process so that you know what to expect, and so you can relax while your dentist completes the work. Getting a crown is a common dental procedure that many people will experience in their lifetime. A dental crown is essentially a cap for your tooth that can be made from a variety of materials, and your dentist may recommend one for a few reasons. Read on to learn more about dental crowns and what to expect when getting one.

What is a Crown

A crown is used to cover a broken, damaged, or otherwise non-functioning tooth to help restore your smile. Crowns are often crafted from metal, ceramic, porcelain, composite resin, or other materials. In most cases, modern crowns resemble a natural tooth. Your dentist will choose a material based on where the tooth’s location in your mouth is, how the tooth looks when you smile, and the shade and color of the teeth surrounding the crown.

Why Get a Crown?

Dental crowns can protect your tooth, or help to restore a missing or damaged tooth. Here are a few reasons your dentist may recommend that you get a crown:

• Cavity – filling a large cavity can be difficult, and a crown often does a better job at protecting the tooth.
• Root canal – after a root canal, your dentist may place a crown on the affected tooth to protect it.
• Wear – your dentist may place a crown on a tooth that is severely worn down and is affecting your bite.
• Cracks – to prevent a tooth from cracking further, your dentist may install a crown.
• Weakness – a crown can help if you have a weak tooth that is prone to damage.

Your dentist may also place a crown to cover up a discolored tooth, or as a place to attach a dental bridge.

What is Getting a Crown Like?

In most cases, getting a crown placed takes two visits to your dentist. During the first visit, your dentist will prepare the damaged tooth by removing any decay and building the core of the tooth if necessary. Next, they will take an impression so that they can create an exact replica of your tooth. Your dentist will then place a temporary crown in the spot where the permanent crown will go. This is to protect the tooth from further damage while you wait for the permanent crown. It will usually take a week or two to make your permanent crown.
If your dentist has the proper tools in their office to make the permanent crown, they can place it on the same day. If not, you’ll return when your crown is ready. When it is ready, your dentist will place it and adjust it until they are happy with the placement, and it feels comfortable to you. You’ll receive a local anesthetic during the procedure, so you won’t feel any discomfort.

Cosmetic

Crowns

Caring for Your Crown

If you get a temporary crown, you must treat it gently, as these crowns were not made to withstand damage. Brush gently, avoid hard foods, and floss carefully. After your dentist places your permanent crown, it’s still important to brush and floss regularly and gently. If your crown is made of porcelain, try to avoid chewing things like ice or hard candy, as your crown may crack. Other than that, you should go back to normal chewing, eating, and oral hygiene as soon as possible. Pain or discomfort after the procedure is usually minimal, and you can use over-the-counter pain relievers as necessary. Always ask your dentist for specific instructions and attend any required follow-up appointments.

Getting Dental Crowns at Brentwood Dental Spa

At Brentwood Dental Spa, getting your crown will be a breeze. Our expert staff will make sure you’re comfortable, relaxed, and well-informed about what will happen during your appointment. If you’re looking to get a crown in Brentwood, or need a crown in the Los Angeles, California, area, we are happy to help!

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