The shape and size of teeth generally determine your dental appearance. Imperfections such as a chipped and broken tooth may make you hide your smile. However, tooth coverings such as crowns in Midtown Manhattan at New Dimension Dentistry may help restore the look and function of damaged teeth.
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Uses of dental crowns
A crown acts as a tooth surface and protects your tooth from further damage. Coverings may vary depending on the type of material used for fabrication, such as Porcelain, gold, and zirconia. Porcelain crowns are most popular since they closely match the color of your natural teeth. It is essential to consider the durability and strength of different caps. For example, gold caps are solid. However, a lot of people do not opt for them because of poor aesthetics. Some people report cases of side effects such as swelling gums after getting gold crowns. Other downsides to getting dental crowns include:
- Porcelain crowns may chip when you get involved in accidents such as falling.
- You may experience discomfort or sensitivity after the procedure when the anesthesia wears off. Unique toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth may help relieve sensitivity.
- Your crown may become loose if the cement washes out. This may allow bacteria to form beneath your tooth cap and cause decay.
- A dark line may form next to your gums as a result of the crowns metal showing.
The procedure of getting dental crowns requires several visits to your dentist. Your dentist may recommend dental crowns to:
- Fix a damaged or cracked tooth
- Cover an implant
- Replace a large filling
- Align your bite
- Level the size and shape of your teeth
- Achieve a beautiful smile
Procedure for getting dental crowns
During the first visit, your doctor may use an X-ray to examine the root and bone of your damaged teeth to determine if you need a root canal. In tooth decay, your dentist will fill the cavity and create room for the crown by filing down your teeth. After restoring the original form of your tooth, your specialist will apply a paste to form a mold of your tooth. Impressions of your teeth help to sculpt your dental crowns. Fabrication of the coverings may take two to three weeks. Your dentist may install temporary crowns as you wait for the permanent caps.
Your dentist may send you home with several guidelines to care for the temporary crown. For example:
- Limit the use of the side of your mouth with a temporary crown
- Avoid chewy foods since they may pull off the crown
- Avoid hard foods because they may break the tooth cap
- Do not lift out dental floss in order to avoid pulling out the crown
For the second visit, your dentist will remove your temporary crown and compare the color of the permanent crown with your teeth to ensure they match. A local anesthetic will prevent you from pain and discomfort as your specialist cements the permanent crown.
Care practices
Dental crowns last from 10 to 15 years, depending on how well you care for them.
- You should avoid grinding your teeth since this may cause your crown to wear off.
- Maintain good oral hygiene practices such as brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing.
- Avoid habits such as biting your fingernails.
The cost of crowns may vary depending on the type of crown selected. For more inquiries about crowns, schedule a consultation with your dentist at New Dimension Dentistry.