Crowns are integral to dentistry. They are a cap for damaged teeth. Dental crowns are made of a variety of materials such as porcelain and metal. When it comes to selecting a crown, there are several factors that need to be considered, including durability, strength, and cost. Everyone wants to opt for crowns that offer a natural appearance which does not impact your smile. It is crucial to consult with a dentist to know about your options and to find out which option would suit you best. It is also essential to choose a reliable dentist, and you can get your teeth troubles sorted here in TN for the best services.
Crowns are made of different types of materials as mentioned below.
- Composite resin
- Metal
- Ceramic
- Porcelain
- A combination of materials
The following factors are considered by the dentist when selecting a material for your dental crowns.
- The location of your tooth
- How much of the tooth would be revealed when smiling
- The position of the gum tissue
- The function of the tooth which requires the crown
- How much natural tooth remains
- The colour of the surrounding teeth
In addition to the above, you should feel free to discuss with the dentist about your preference.
Who Requires A Crown?
Before we take a look at the different types of dental crowns, it is crucial to know who even needs a crown. According to My Dentist San Francisco, a crown may be necessary if you have a broken tooth, a very large filling with additional decay, a worn down tooth, a root canal treated tooth, or a cracked tooth.
Types of Dental Crowns
Temporary Crown
As the name suggests, a temporary crown is for temporary purposes. It would only remain in the mouth for a short time. An adhesive will be used by the dentist to place it over the tooth. It tends to be easily removed and is not as strong as a permanent crown. Generally, a temporary crown is worn while a permanent one is made. The permanent crown would be attached at the second appointment.
One-Day Crown
A one-day crown is a crown that is made in a single appointment. However, it is important to keep in mind that not every dentist offers a one-day crown. Same-day crown installation requires the use of computer-aided manufacturing/ computer-aided design (CAM/ CAD).
¾ Crown or Onlays
There are some crowns which only help cover a portion of your tooth. If you are not looking for a full crown, the dentist would suggest that you opt for a ¾ crown or onlays.
Dental Crown Procedure
When it comes to the dental crown procedure, it all depends on whether the dentist suggests a same-day procedure or a multi-day procedure.
Same-Day Procedure
If you undergo a same-day procedure, you do not have to get a temporary crown and would get a permanent crown the same day. The process is as below.
- Firstly, digital photos of your mouth will be taken by the dentist.
- The digital scan will be used from the photos to create a crown at the office. However, you would need to wait for around an hour or two until the crown has been made.
- Once the crown has been made, the dentist would just need to cement it into place. The process should take you around 2 to 4 hours in total.
A great thing about a same-day procedure is the fact that you can come in before work before heading back to work. As mentioned above, not every dentist has the technology to make you a same-day crown. Hence, you should ask the dentist whether the option is even available or not.
Multi-Day Procedure
A multi-day procedure involves the use of a temporary crown. It means that you would need to visit the dentist twice. The procedure is mentioned as below.
- The tooth that requires a crown is examined and prepared by the dentist. It generally involves taking X-rays of your tooth.
- Part of your tooth’s outer layer would need to be filed down and removed.
- Next, the dentist would make an impression of the trimmed tooth and its surrounding teeth.
- A temporary crown would be placed over the tooth to help protect it.
- The impression taken by the dentist would be sent to the lab so that the crown can be made. It would several weeks for it to be made.
- Once the crown has been made, you would need to visit the dentist again to have it cemented onto your tooth.
