Dental crowns are a common restorative dentistry procedure dentists recommend for several reasons. If you’ve been told you need a crown, you want to be prepared for your appointment. Here’s a brief guide to everything you should know about this procedure.

What Are They?

Often confused with veneers—which only cover the front of a tooth—dental crowns cover the entirety of your tooth above the gumline. They can be made of ceramic, porcelain, composite resins, metal alloys, or more than one of these materials. Crowns support and protect weakened or broken teeth from further damage while restoring a natural, beautiful appearance. When placed by an experienced dentist, crowns will last for a long time—up to 15 years, depending on the material and your oral hygiene practices.

When Are They Used?

Since they’re durable and cover the entire tooth, dental crowns are used to add stability, strength, and functionality back to a damaged or weakened tooth. If you have a cavity that’s too extensive for a filling, for instance, a crown is placed to protect the fragile tooth from damage and prevent further decay. When you have a root canal, a crown can be placed over the tooth to reduce the risk of the infection returning.

Crowns can be used to replace missing teeth as well, in either bridge or implant form. With implants, they’re permanently affixed to an implanted titanium post to replace a tooth, while bridges use two crowns to anchor an artificial tooth. Beyond functional purposes, crowns also restore an appealing, natural smile when your tooth is severely stained, oddly shaped, or has gaps between the teeth on either side of it.

How Are They Put In?

Crowns are custom-made to fit over your tooth, and it’s a simple procedure that should cause no discomfort. To begin the process, your tooth will be filed down and shaped to accommodate the crown, and then a mold will be taken of your mouth so your crown can be created in a dental laboratory. You and your dentist will decide what shade and shape you want the crown to be when it’s finished.

Since creating the dental crown takes time, you’ll be fitted with a temporary one before you leave to protect your exposed tooth. When it’s ready, you’ll return to the office to have the crown cemented in place. Once the bonding agent has set, final touches will be completed, such as honing its shape and size to match your other teeth.

If you’re ready to see if a dental crown is right for you, contact Dr. Daniel M. Hamrick, DDS in China Grove, NC. Since 1981, he’s provided dependable dental care with a personal touch to Rowan County. The compassionate staff’s comprehensive services include general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry with procedures like extractions, root canals, and veneers. They prioritize your health and convenience, offering prompt service by knowledgeable professionals. Explore their dental services online and call (704) 857-7497 for an appointment.