Dental Crowns for Adults
A dental crown is a type of dental restoration that is a tooth-shaped “cap” or cover that is placed over a tooth that is badly damaged or decayed. It covers the tooth to restore its shape, size, strength and improve its appearance.
What Are Dental Crowns Made From?
Dental crowns can be made from several different materials, including stainless steel, all metal (gold or base metal alloys), porcelain fused to metal, all resin or all porcelain. Take a look at this chart about various dental materials and their uses.
How Many Appointments Are Needed?
There are typically two appointments involved in preparing a tooth for a crown. The first is to examine and prepare the tooth. The tooth being restored is numbed so that it isn’t painful during the crown preparation. After the procedure is over and the anesthesia has worn off, the patient may feel some sensitivity with the temporary crown. The pain is very minimal and should not last long. The second appointment is for placement of the permanent crown.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
A dental crown typically lasts 10-15 years. However, crowns are still subject to fracture and cavities, so it is important to continue to brush and floss around crowned teeth to prevent from needing a replacement too often. Also, you should avoid biting on hard objects with your crown.
The cost of getting a dental crown varies depending on the type of material selected. Porcelain is more expensive than gold; and gold is more expensive than porcelain fused to metal. Dental insurance will typically cover part of the expense.
Why are Crowns needed?
1. To protect a weak tooth from breaking.
2. To restore an already cracked or broken tooth.
3. To restore a tooth that has been severely worn down.
4. To hold a dental bridge in place.
5. To cover and support a tooth with a large filling when there isn’t a lot of tooth left.