The Complete Guide to Dental Crowns

Has your dentist in Owings Mills, MD recommended that you get dental crowns? Here's everything you need to know about this common dental procedure.

There are at least 3.5 billion cases of oral diseases worldwide. The most common is dental caries, also known as cavities.

These issues can cause teeth to decay, crack, or fall out. There are several ways to repair them, but one of the best is dental crowns.

Also known as caps, they're placed directly over the affected tooth. This keeps them safe from further damage and makes them look more like natural teeth while removing the need for extraction or other forms of surgery.



Read our guide to learn what dental crowns can do and why you should consider them.

What Are Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns are caps placed over a tooth or dental implant. You may need one if you have a large cavity or a weak, cracked, or missing tooth.

Most patients are candidates for dental crowns, but there are a few reasons that you may not be. They include strokes, heart conditions, or an allergy to anesthesia. 

Dental crowns may not be the best option in certain cases. An implant or artificial tooth is more effective if you're missing the natural structure of the tooth. Simpler procedures such as veneers are a better cosmetic option.

There are several types of dental crowns, and the main differences between them are the type of materials they're made of. A few options include:

• Metal 
• Zirconia
• Ceramic
• Porcelain
• Composite resin

Choosing the right material depends on your personal preferences. Gold and porcelain tend to last the longest, while composite wears down more quickly. Ceramic looks the most natural, and zirconia is the sturdiest, 

The best material for your crown also depends on other factors determined by your dentist. They include the function and location of the tooth and gum tissue, the size of the affected area, and the color of the rest of your teeth.



Single-day crowns can be created from a block of ceramic using computer-aided machines. You can also get a temporary one installed with resin and then replaced with a permanent one. Most permanent crowns last for 5-15 years. 

Benefits of Dental Crowns

The dental crown procedure is simple and safe, and the materials are hypoallergenic. One of the only side effects is mild discomfort. They can chip or fall out, but the success rate is high at 90-95%.

Dental crowns are custom-fit to your mouth so that they feel natural and won't come out. They also match the color of your other teeth so that they won't stand out when you smile.

Dental crowns are permanent. You'll only need to get them once to protect your teeth for years to come, and they often last forever.

Dental crowns are often a better alternative to more extensive procedures such as extractions. They can also be used on almost any teeth, including dead ones.



Dental crowns also have cosmetic benefits. They can help straighten and whiten teeth without spending money and time on regular whitening procedures.

The Dental Crown Procedure

At least 75% of Americans and 30% of dental students experience dental anxiety. The most common reasons are the expectation of pain and the sights and sounds of the office. 

The easiest way to ease this fear is to know what a procedure entails. Getting a crown is a common dental service and isn't as painful or complicated as you think when done correctly.

Search for a reputable "dentist near me" if you don't already have one. Installing crowns is relatively simple but presents a risk with any misalignment or mistakes. It requires 2 appointments, and they should explain to you what happens during each of them.

The first visit to the office involves examining your affected tooth to see its position, whether or not it's begun to decay, and other important considerations. This may involve x-rays and molds to get a clearer picture.

The affected tooth also needs to be filed down and have its outer layer removed. This allows them to get an impression of it that helps them make the permanent crown later.

The next visit is when you'll receive your permanent crown. It's made to fit your mouth by matching the impression. It gets cemented to your tooth and remains there. 

The process can also be completed in a single day. This starts by creating a digital image of your mouth and a 3D model of the crown. It'll be ready in a few hours and cemented into place. 

Caring for Dental Crowns

Crowns look and feel like normal teeth but require a specific dental care process. Failing to follow it can lead to further issues such as gingivitis and cause the crown to fail.

Brush twice a day, but make sure to be gentle because the area around the crown may be sensitive for a few days or weeks. Use toothpaste made for sensitive teeth and get a toothbrush with soft bristles.

Use a night guard if you clench or grind your teeth at night. This protects all of your teeth from damage and keeps the crown from breaking or falling out.

Temporary crowns are especially sensitive and require extra care. Be gentle when brushing and try a toothbrush with extra-soft bristles. Pull from the side of the tooth instead of going up when flossing. 

If the crown breaks or comes out, return to your local dentist to have it repaired as soon as possible. It leaves your mouth open to infection and makes it difficult to perform basic tasks like chewing or drinking.

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