If you’re like 61% of the world’s population, going to the dentist makes you pretty nervous, especially if you’re getting new dental hardware like a dental crown.
While getting a dental crown sounds invasive and scary, it’s actually quite routine and uncomplicated. Let’s examine the what, why, how and where of getting dental crowns.
A dental crown is a cap for a tooth. It can be made of porcelain, metal, ceramic, resin, or a combination of those materials. To determine what material to use, a dentist will look at the state of the tooth, where it is in your mouth, and the position of it relative to the gums.
They can be blended and polished to match the existing tooth color.
Some are full crowns that cover the entire tooth. A dentist may use an inlay or 3/4 crown to cover a smaller portion in some cases.
Because they’re so versatile, dental crowns are one of the most widely used dentistry tools. They can be used to:
Dental professionals make over 2 million dental crowns every year. The majority of people who get crowns only get a single one at a time.
If you need a dental crown, expect it to take at least two visits to the dentist.
The first visit is for consultation and preparation. After going over the procedure, the dentist will shave away decay on the tooth and shape it so a crown will fit. If there’s deep decay, they may perform a root canal.
Once the tooth is prepped, the dentist will take an impression of the tooth. You may receive a temporary crown to prevent discomfort.
Your next visit will probably be a couple of weeks later. This is when the dentist actually installs the crown. They will numb the area and use dental cement to secure it in place. If everything goes as planned, this may take less than an hour.
Permanent crowns don’t typically require special long-term care, though you should consult your dentist about potential pain and discomfort at first. Like regular teeth, though, they are not exempt from damage or decay.
Brush and floss around the crown regularly and use antibacterial mouthwash as recommended by your dentist.
Every aspect of Rio Rancho Smiles’ family dental practice is focused on compassion, comfort and healthy smiles. For a dentist in Rio Rancho, New Mexico, that will alleviate your dental health concerns, trust Rio Rancho Smiles.
For more information about dental crowns and our full range of dental services, contact us today.
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