Dental Crown Treatment

A dental crown is a cap shaped like a tooth, designed to restore a tooth that has weakened, decayed, fractured, or worn. Additionally, dentists utilize crowns to encase teeth that have undergone root canal treatment and to cover dental implants. These crowns, which may be constructed from materials such as metal, porcelain, resin, or others, can last between five to fifteen years with appropriate care.

What is a Dental Crown?

Dental crowns also referred to as “teeth caps,” are a prosthetic and restorative method for restoring the appearance and functionality of damaged or missing teeth.

Why Are Dental Crowns Necessary?

A dental crown may be necessary in various circumstances:

To prevent the fracture of a weakened tooth, such as due to decay, and to stabilize a cracked tooth.
To repair a tooth that has already fractured or has undergone significant wear.
When there is minimal tooth structure remaining, a crown can be used to provide coverage and support.
To secure a dental bridge in its position.
To conceal teeth that are misaligned or severely discoloured.
To cap a dental implant.
To enhance the aesthetic appearance of a tooth or alter its overall look.

A crown can be utilized on primary (baby) teeth for children in order to achieve the following:

Preserve a severely decayed tooth that cannot be restored with a filling.
Safeguard the teeth of children who are prone to cavities, particularly if they struggle to maintain regular oral hygiene practices.
Minimize the frequency of administering general anesthesia to children who are unable to fully cooperate with dental care due to their age, behavior, or medical background.

What Are The Types of Dental Crowns?

There is a wide range of dental crowns available, each with its own distinct characteristics. The selection of the most suitable crown for you is contingent upon your personal preferences and specific oral health requirements.

Porcelain Crowns: Porcelain crowns are highly favoured due to their lifelike appearance and ability to seamlessly integrate with adjacent teeth. These crowns are specifically designed to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, rendering them virtually indistinguishable. For individuals desiring aesthetically pleasing outcomes, porcelain crowns represent an excellent choice.
Metal Crowns: Metal crowns are celebrated for their exceptional strength and longevity. Typically composed of gold or silver alloys, these crowns are particularly suitable for molars due to their remarkable resistance to wear. While metal crowns are highly functional, their metallic appearance may not appeal to everyone.
Zirconia Crowns: Zirconia crowns are a relatively recent addition to the array of dental crown options. Constructed from a durable, biocompatible material that closely mimics the natural color of teeth, zirconia crowns are suitable for both anterior and posterior teeth due to their strength and resistance to chipping or fracturing. The cost of zirconia crowns generally falls within the mid-range compared to other types.
Composite Resin Crowns: Composite resin crowns offer an economical solution for dental restoration. Made from a blend of resin and other materials, these crowns provide a natural look. However, composite resin crowns tend to be less durable than other options and may require more frequent replacement.

How are Dental Crown Procedures Done?

The procedure’s timeline will vary based on whether your dentist chooses a multi-day or same-day approach.

Same-day Procedure

Through a procedure completed within the same day, you have the option to bypass the temporary crown phase.

The dentist will capture digital images of your mouth and utilize them to fabricate the crown on-site.
The waiting time for the crown to be produced is approximately 1 to 2 hours.
Once the crown is prepared, the dentist will affix it securely.
The overall duration of the process typically ranges from 2 to 4 hours.
Depending on your individual circumstances, you may even be able to return to work during the waiting period.

Multi-day Procedure with a Temporary Crown

A visit to your dentist’s office is required twice for the placement of a traditional crown.

The initial visit involves the examination and preparation of the tooth, which may include X-rays and taking a mold of your tooth or mouth.
The outer layer of the tooth will be filed down and removed by the dentist.
An impression of the trimmed tooth and surrounding teeth will be made, and a temporary crown will be placed to protect the tooth.
The impression is then sent to a lab for the crown to be made, which can take several weeks.
Finally, you will return for the second visit to have the crown cemented to your tooth by the dentist.

Not every dentist possesses the necessary technology to provide same-day crowns. It is advisable to inquire with your dentist regarding the availability of this option and the estimated cost, particularly if you lack dental insurance.

Tips for Maintaining and Caring for Dental Crowns

To ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your dental crowns after investment, it is essential to adopt certain precautions. The following recommendations will assist you in maintaining your dental crowns effectively:

Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene: Implement proper oral hygiene practices by brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing daily to eliminate plaque and food particles around the crown. The use of an antibacterial mouthwash can further enhance your oral hygiene routine.
Refrain from Hard or Sticky Foods: Chewing on hard or sticky items can damage your dental crowns. It is advisable to avoid using your teeth to open packages, chewing ice, or consuming hard candies.
Schedule Regular Dental Appointments: To monitor the condition of your dental crowns, arrange for regular check-ups at a reputable dental clinic in Chennai. Your dentist will assess the fit, structural integrity, and overall health of your crowns to ensure their longevity.
Utilize a Nightguard: If you tend to clench or grind your teeth during sleep, wearing a nightguard can protect your dental crowns from excessive pressure and potential damage.

Conclusion

Gaining a comprehensive understanding of the various types of dental crowns and their associated costs is essential for making an informed choice regarding your dental health. You have the option to select from porcelain, metal, zirconia, and composite resin crowns, each tailored to meet different needs and budgetary considerations. Each material presents its own unique advantages and price points.

To ensure the durability and effectiveness of your dental crowns, it is important to follow appropriate maintenance and care practices. It is advisable to consult with a dentist to determine the most suitable dental crown option for your needs, thereby embarking on the journey towards a bright and healthy smile.

The Most Important Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the Treatment for a Crown Permanent?
A: Dental crowns are a long-term treatment even if they are not permanent. A crown should last you anywhere from five to twenty years, on average. Maintaining proper oral hygiene is one of the things you can do to help your crown last longer.

Q: Which Dental Crown Is the Best?
A: Porcelain or all-ceramic crowns. Zirconia crowns are more resilient than other ceramic crown varieties, withstanding stresses up to twice as great. They also cause less enamel wear on your opposing teeth because they are mild on them.

Q: What Are the Disadvantages of Having Crowns?
A: Drawbacks with Dental Crowns:

Covering untreated dental decayed regions.
Discomfort brought on by an incorrect fit.
An elevated infection risk.
Increased susceptibility to temperature changes in food and drink.
Crown loosening or coming off.

Q: Do Crowns Frequently Fall Off?
A: Porcelain crowns are especially popular, and many do break loose and fall out with age. The majority of dentists believe that dental crowns typically last between 10 and 20 years.

Q: Can a Cavity Form in My Crown?
A: Since your crown is composed of a unique synthetic material, a cavity cannot form inside the crown itself. On the other hand, the tooth on which your crown is affixed may get a cavity.