If your tooth is suffering from a painful infection, deep crack, or extensive decay, you may benefit from a restoration known as a dental crown. But many patients are nervous when hearing they need this important treatment because they don’t know what to expect. Here’s a closer look at what happens during a dental crown procedure, and why there’s nothing to fear when repairing your damaged tooth with these durable, lifelike prosthetics!
What is a Dental Crown?
Think of a dental crown as really large filling, except instead of rebuilding a small section of damaged enamel, it covers the entire reshaped tooth like a hat or cap. Made of a realistic looking and feeling zirconia, these restorations blend in seamlessly with your existing teeth, so nobody but you and your dentist will ever need to know they’re not the real thing!
With proper care, you can expect your dental crown to last for 10+ years, and because they’re strong and durable, they can be used to enjoy a full diet without any restrictions!
What Happens During Dental Crown Treatment?
Dental crown treatment may seem scary at first, but the truth is, there’s nothing to be afraid of. First, your dentist will numb your mouth so you shouldn’t feel a thing during your procedure. If you’re nervous or anxious, you can even request dental sedation to help keep you calm and comfortable.
Once you’re ready, your dentist will take some 3D images of your smile with their accurate, painless digital impression system. Next, they’ll remove the damaged enamel and reshape the tooth so it can easily accommodate your restoration. Then, they’ll take some more impressions of the reshaped tooth and send the information off to the dental lab. Before you go, you’ll be fitted with a temporary crown which will protect the underlying tooth and allow you to continue eating, speaking, and smiling confidently until your permanent crown is delivered from the dental lab. Finally, in about two weeks you’ll return to your dentist’s office to have the temporary crown removed and the permanent one cemented in place, where it will restore your gorgeous grin for about a decade!
How Can I Make My Dental Crown Last?
Dental crowns are designed to last for 10 or more years with proper care and use, but to make the most of your restoration, you’ll need to take excellent care of it. To that end, be sure to follow these guidelines for success:
- Only use your dental crown to eat food. Never use it to bite your nails, tear open packaging, or gnaw on inanimate objects!
- Brush your teeth (including your restorations) twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste, and floss daily.
- Be sure to visit your dentist every six months for your regular checkups and cleanings.
Remember, with excellent oral hygiene practices, your new dental crown was designed to protect your gorgeous grin for up to a decade. To learn more about the incredible benefits of this “royal” treatment, contact your dentist today!
About Dr. Sokolik
Dr. Steven Sokolik earned his undergraduate degree at the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater and his dental degree at Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine. Since graduation, he has taken hundreds of hours of continuing education in a variety of oral health topics from oral surgery to prosthodontics. He is a proud, active member of the American Dental Association and the Iowa Dental Association. To schedule an appointment for dental crowns at Keokuk Family Dentistry, visit our website or call us today at 319-524-1477.