Visiting your dentist in Indianapolis for a crown? Here’s what to expect
For the unversed, restorative dentistry is a segment of dentistry that focuses on repairing and replacing damaged/missing teeth. There are all kinds of dental restorations, such as bridges, implants, dentures, and crowns. A dental crown works like a cap for an existing natural tooth and helps restore its shape, function, and color. If your dentist in North East Indianapolis has recommended getting a crown, here’s what to expect.
Procedure overview
You will need at least two appointments to get a dental crown. During the first visit, the dentist will use local anesthesia to numb the tooth, after which they will remove any decay. Crowns are often placed after another procedure, such as cavity fillings and root canal therapy. A patient may need a new cap if the existing one is broken or chipped. Once the anesthesia effects set in, your dentist will reshape and buff the tooth to prepare it for the crown. They will take impressions of the tooth and send the mold to a dental lab. It may take two to three weeks for your permanent crown to get ready, and you can ask for a temporary crown for this period. At the second visit, your dentist will check the crown and cement it on the tooth.
Reasons for getting dental crowns
Crowns are a part of dental bridges. If you are missing many teeth in a row, your dentist may suggest getting a dental bridge, which has crowns on both ends. These crowns go over the adjacent teeth. Crowns are also useful for repairing weak or fractured teeth. Patients who have gone through root canal therapy will need a crown to protect the treated tooth from breakage and damage. Crowns can be used for cosmetic reasons, such as covering extremely stained or chipped teeth.
Things to know about dental crowns
Like most dental restorations, crowns are not permanent. While porcelain crowns can last for a decade or more, replacement will be necessary after years of use. The tooth inside a cap can still develop a new cavity, and it is extremely important to keep up with regular oral hygiene habits. Although not common, crowns can fall off. Consider that as a dental emergency and see your dentist immediately. They may be able to fix it back or order a new one from the lab. Crowns are also prone to chipping and cracking, and if you suffer from bruxism, also called teeth grinding, let your dentist know. They can recommend wearing a custom mouthguard, which can prevent damage to restorations and natural teeth.
Types of dental crowns
There are different materials used for dental crowns, such as stainless steel, metal, resin, and porcelain. Resin crowns cost a lot less but need replacement sooner. Porcelain and ceramic crowns are often preferred by dentists, as the material resembles the color of natural teeth and can last for 15 years or more. Porcelain fused to metal crowns is also an option, especially if you don’t want full-metal crowns for the look.
How to care for your new crown?
You may experience some sensitivity after the placement of the dental crown, but these are minor side effects that should subside soon. It can take some time to get used to the new crown, and you should take care of it like your regular teeth. While crowns are hard and durable, you should avoid chewing hard foods that can cause the material to chip. Besides brushing and flossing twice a day, ensure that you see your dentist every six months or as recommended.
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