Are Crowns Worth It?
Yes, dental crowns are worth the cost, depending on the reason why you need them. When you have severely worn out or damaged teeth, they can be strengthened with dental crowns. Before you get cosmetic dentistry services near you, here is what you need to know.
What are Teeth Crowns?
Dental crowns are teeth caps that encase the entire tooth to change the size, shape, color, and appearance of the teeth. These crowns are cemented in place using a block of cement and laser light.
The teeth caps are available in different materials that include:
- Stainless steel crowns. These crowns are prefabricated in the dental office and are used as a temporary measure as you wait for the permanent teeth to be made. These crowns can be fixed in one dental visit and do not need a long process. That’s why they are recommended for children who are at risk of cavities.
- Porcelain crowns. These are tooth-colored crowns that give a seamless look. Porcelain crowns are durable and can last for 15 years with proper care.
- Metal crowns. These are available in gold or silver. The metal crowns are strong, durable, and can withstand biting pressure. That is why they are mostly fixed on the back teeth.
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal. These crowns combine the strength of the metal and the aesthetics of porcelain. They are also durable and can be fixed on any tooth. However, these crowns cause a dark line on the gums.
- Resin crowns. These crowns also have a natural look and are somewhat stain-resistant. These crowns are, however, not as durable as the rest of the teeth. That’s why they are ideal for the front teeth.
What Problems Can Dental Crown Fix?
Our dentist in Ancaster can recommend dental crowns to fix several dental imperfections such as:
- Weak teeth. The dental crowns can protect the teeth that are damaged from decay. They keep the teeth from breaking or cracking.
- Teeth crowns restore broken teeth or severely worn down teeth.
- Support teeth with large fillings
- They hold a dental bridge in place
- The crowns cover misshaped or severe crowns.
- They also cover dental implants.
How Are the Dental Crowns Fixed?
Dental crowns in Ancaster are done in two dental visits, and it is done in a few steps:
- First dental visit
When you visit the dentist near you for the first time, they will start by examining your teeth. He will check for decay and other dental problems. An x-ray may be done to check the roots of the affected teeth. If you have extensive decay, the dentist may first do a root canal treatment.
The gums and soft tissues are anesthetized before the teeth are reshaped. The enamel needs trimming to make room for the dental crowns. The amount removed will depend on the type and thickness of the crowns used.
After your teeth are reshaped, an impression of them is taken to make them permanent teeth. It takes a few weeks to make these crowns. In the meantime, the dentist will cover the teeth with temporary crowns to protect them from sensitivity.
These temporary crowns are important, and you need to protect them. Avoid eating sticky or hard foods, which can cause the crowns to come out.
- The second dental visit
After three or four weeks, you will come back to the dentist and can replace the crowns. The temporary crowns are removed and replaced with the permanent ones. The dentist will use a block of dental cement to fix the dental crowns and harden them with laser light.
The excess is removed, and teeth are polished for a final look.
What to Expect After the Crowns Are Fixed?
As the anesthesia begins to wear out, you will experience slight discomfort. Bleeding is rare, but there may be a bit of swelling. Tooth sensitivity is a common side effect of dental crowns. The dentist will give you a tooth-sensitive toothpaste to reduce the discomfort.
Schedule an Appointment
If you are looking for family dentistry near you, visit Golf Links Dental for more information on our family dental services, such as dental crowns, among others.