The purpose of dental crowns are to protect and cover a tooth that has been compromised from dental fillings, is cracked or broken, or a crown can cover a tooth that has undergone root canal therapy.
In any case, a crown allows the natural tooth to be salvaged which is always a better option than losing a tooth.
Depending on the tooth being crowned, there are different materials used in making a crown. For back teeth that sustain much of the pressure from chewing, some type of metal or gold may be selected. For crowns in the smile line, a porcelain or porcelain to metal crown is a good option.
No matter which type of crown is needed, your dentist will provide the information needed to make the best choice. The tooth will be prepared, an impression taken and a temporary will be provided while the lab is fabricating your new crown.
In about two weeks, you will return to the dentist’s office for the permanent crown to be cemented in place. At the conclusion of this appointment you can return to your “normal” life. Your new crown requires no special care.
Consideration might be given to chewing habits, especially if you have selected a porcelain crown. Although your new crown is strong, avoiding biting and chewing on hard objects like candy and ice will not only aid your new crown, but might also save existing teeth.
Your new crown has been cemented in place, but extremely sticky foods can loosen a crown. If the crown does come off, a return to your dental provider is needed for cementing back in place.
You should continue to observe excellent dental hygiene habits which include daily flossing, brushing with a soft bristle brush using a non-abrasive tooth paste or gel and rinsing with an antibacterial rinse, if advised to do so. Your dentist can demonstrate the safest way to floss around a new dental crown.
Returning to your dental provider every six months for a professional cleaning and dental exam will aid in maintaining excellent dental health, and might prevent the advancement of dental decay and other problems.
To learn more about caring for your dental crowns, contact Fresh Dental in Richardson, TX to schedule a consultation.
