What Are Dental Crowns and How Do They Work?
Dental crowns can be used for several restorative purposes and are mainly used for teeth that are severely damaged from decay, teeth grinding, or broken teeth. A crown is designed to cover the entire visible portion of the tooth to restore the tooth’s original shape and size.
Crowns can be used for a range of cosmetic and restorative purposes, including to:
- protect a tooth following a root canal procedure
- cover a dental implant
- anchor a dental bridge
- improve a broken or cracked tooth
- support a large filling when little of the healthy tooth structure remains
Leaving damaged and broken teeth can cause further dental problems that can become painful. You must receive treatment for any tooth with damage. If you are suffering from damaged or missing teeth, contact our dental office to schedule a consultation.
Types of Dental Crowns Available in Harrisonburg, VA
Several dental crown options are available to patients, depending on their dental health and specific needs. We can help you determine which crown is right for you.
Porcelain and Ceramic Dental Crowns
Porcelain and ceramic are both types of natural-looking crowns.
Ceramic dental crowns are the most tooth-like dental option available. They are made of zirconia, a ceramic material that can match the look and feel of your natural dental structure.
Porcelain dental crowns are another tooth-colored option. They are made to match the color of your natural teeth, making them an excellent choice for dental patients who want a very natural-looking dental restoration.
Metal-Based Dental Crowns
A metal crown is made of a combination of metals: steel, gold, and palladium, and they are more durable than dental crowns made of other materials. However, metal crowns are not always the best choice for patients who want a natural-looking restoration.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal Crowns
Porcelain fused to metal crowns can match your tooth color but are attached by metal to the tooth. They combine the strength of metal and the aesthetics of a porcelain top.
Resin Dental Crowns: A Natural-Looking Option
All-resin crowns are the most inexpensive option up front and offer a natural-looking restoration. However, they do not last as long as other options and are not as durable, so they require extra care and usually have to be replaced sooner.
Implant-supported crowns are used with dental implant procedures. Dental implants offer a permanent solution for patients missing one or more teeth, and the crowns are placed over the implant. If you are looking for a solution to replace missing teeth, contact our dental office!
What to Expect for a Dental Crown Procedure in Harrisonburg
Having dental crowns placed is a reasonably simple procedure. Here is what you can expect during the dental crown procedure:
An Exam and X-rays
We will examine your dental health to determine which procedures are required. You may need x-rays before your crown is placed so that we can decide the best option for you. Any tooth decay will need to be treated before the crown can be placed.
A Dental Impression
We will take an impression of your dental structure to prepare a crown. Then, a temporary crown will be placed on the tooth while your permanent crown is created.
Dental Laboratory
Once we determine the crown product and method, we will send your impression to a dental lab. The lab will create your crown out of the material you and your dentist agree on.
Adjusting
After your dental crown has been created, it will need to be adjusted and polished before it is placed. You may require an adjustment to make sure the crown fits and functions correctly. The dentist will ensure your bite is correct and the crown fits well.
Placing the Crown
The crown will be placed on the tooth. This requires cleaning the tooth beforehand so the crown won’t trap bacteria. The dentist will remove a small amount of enamel and then cement the crown on the tooth. Then, he’ll adjust and check your bite one last time.
Caring for Your Dental Crowns: Tips for Longevity
Once your crowns have been placed, there are several things you can do to make sure they stay healthy and strong throughout the years. Here are a few tips for caring for your new crowns:
- Brush crowns with a soft bristle toothbrush.
- Do not chew on hard objects such as ice or hard candy.
- Protect restorations with a mouth guard if you are active in contact sports.
With proper care, traditional crowns can last many years.
So schedule an appointment with us today!
We want you to have a beautiful and healthy smile. If you require dental treatment in Harrisonburg, VA, contact our team at Massanutten Dental Team and Oral Surgery today!
