Dental crown treatment can make a dramatic difference in your smile. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the procedure of getting a dental crown, its different types, and what to expect before and after getting a dental crown treatment.
What is the purpose of getting a dental crown?
Crowns are used for many reasons, including the following:
- Restoring the shape and size of a fractured or decayed tooth.
- Root canal treatment.
- Protecting the weakened tooth from breaking.
- Keeping a dental bridge in place,
- Covering a dental implant.
The types of crowns are metal, porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM), ceramic, zirconia, gold alloy, and resin. Depending on what type of crown is used and which tooth it will be placed on, the patient’s expectations should be adjusted accordingly.
Preparations
Before getting a dental crown, your dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any damaged parts and shaping it to fit the crown, so they will remove a quantity of enamel matching the thickness of the crown.
Your dentist may need to perform a root canal treatment before starting your crown procedure if there are;
- Tooth decay.
- Risk of infection.
- Injury to the tooth’s pulp.
They will then take an impression of your teeth and send it off to a lab where the crown is custom-crafted.
Your dentist may also use digital imaging techniques such as computer tomography (CT scans) in order to create 3D images for a more precise fit for your new crown.
During this time, you may be given temporary protective coverings (post-crown) to the root canal in order to protect your teeth while your crowns are being prepared.
The Dental Crown Procedure
When your dental crown is ready, you will return to the dental office for the placement of the dental crown. Your dentist may use local anaesthesia in order to ensure that you are comfortable during the procedure.
Then the crown will be attached using special dental cement. Once the dental crown has been secured on your tooth structure, you may be asked to bite down on gauze or cotton in order to ensure a good fit before it is permanently cemented in place. It’s important not to eat any hard foods or chew gum for several hours after getting a dental crown so that it can fully set properly and last longer.
In addition to restoring the strength and aesthetic beauty of teeth, tooth crowns can also help protect weakened teeth from additional damage.
Same-day Dental Crowns
Crowns can also be made in the dentist’s office in just one visit using the CEREC technology. CEREC stands for Chairside Economical Restorations of Esthetic Ceramics and is a technological advancement that has revolutionised the dental industry.
CEREC crowns are designed and crafted with this technology. So, patients can get their CEREC crowns done in one single appointment. CEREC crowns are made with ceramic material and can be designed specifically to match your smile while offering superior strength and durability.
The preparation process for the CEREC crowns is similar to the traditional one. However, CAD/CAM technology (computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing) scans and takes digital pictures of the tooth, gets a 3D model of the tooth and jaw, and then sends those digital designs to another machine that carves the shape of the crown out of a block of ceramic and mills it in one visit.
After-care instructions
After treatment, tooth crowns take on a new life as the teeth become stronger and look whiter and more aesthetically pleasing. With proper care and maintenance, tooth crowns can last many years into the future.
It’s important to follow instructions given by your dentist when it comes to crowns after-care. Patients should brush and floss at least twice a day, use a soft-bristled toothbrush, avoid hard foods like ice cubes or sticky candy, and visit the dentist regularly for checkups. Additionally, patients should take extra care around crowns that contain metal so as not to scratch them up.
How long does the dental crown procedure last?
The dental crown procedure usually takes 2 to 3 visits. The time for each visit typically ranges from an hour to an hour and a half, depending on the patient’s condition.
On average, patients can expect to spend around three hours in total for their dental crown treatment.
What to know about dental crowns longevity
The longevity of a dental crown may depend on how well it is cared for. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene, avoiding hard foods and substances, and visiting the dentist regularly can help ensure that your dental crowns last as long as possible. On average, dental crowns can last between 5 to 15 years with proper care.
What are the benefits and risks of dental crown procedures?
The main advantage of getting a dental crown is that it can restore the look and function of your teeth, as well as protect them from further damage. In addition, dental crowns are more affordable than other restorative treatments, such as dental implants or dental bridges.
However, there are some risks associated with the procedure. These include the following:
Gum sensitivity
Crowns may irritate the gums, resulting in redness and swelling.
Infection
Crowns may cause infection if there is not enough saliva or proper oral hygiene in the area around them.
Allergic reaction to materials
Crowns can be made from various materials, so it’s important to tell your dentist if you have any allergies or sensitivities.
Difficulty in biting down
Crowns may cause difficulty in biting down, which can be resolved by your dentist adjusting the crown.
Discomfort or pain at the site of placement
Discomfort or pain at the site of placementCrowns may cause discomfort or pain at the site of placement, which can be resolved with over-the-counter pain medications.
Overall, dental crowns are a safe and effective way to restore and protect teeth that are damaged or decayed. However, it’s important to discuss these potential risks with your dentist before getting a dental crown treatment.
How much do dental crowns cost?
The cost of dental crowns in Australia will vary depending on the type of material used and the complexity of the procedure. The average cost for ceramic crowns starts at AUD $800. For metal or porcelain fused to metal crowns, the cost also starts at AUD $800.
It’s important to speak with your dentist or insurance provider to get an accurate estimate of the cost of dental crowns in Australia.
The cost of a dental crown might seem expensive, but considering that it can last up to 15 years and protect your teeth from further damage, it is well worth the investment in the long run. So if you’re considering getting a dental crown, it’s important to weigh the benefits and costs before making your decision.
Finding the Right Dentist for a Tooth Crown Procedure
It is important to find a qualified and experienced dental professional for your tooth crown procedure. Your dentist should be able to provide all the necessary information about the treatment, as well as answer any questions you may have.
Overall, getting a tooth crown should be considered carefully prior to scheduling an appointment with your dentist. No Gaps Dental will help you make informed decisions about what type of crown is best suited for you and will provide you with all the information you need.
To book your appointment, contact us here, call us on (02) 8007 6727 or book your appointment online.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.
References
Crowns
https://www.dentalhealth.org/crowns
Dental crown procedure
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/dental-crown-procedure
Dental crowns
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/10923-dental-crowns
How Much Does A Dental Crown Cost In Perth?
https://nationaldentalfoundation.org.au/dental-crown-cost-in-perth/