Dental crowns have proven to be extremely versatile in the world of dentistry. More and more patients are getting dental crowns placed every year, so it’s likely that someone you know has a dental crown, but you just never noticed before. Eventually, you may even need a dental crown. Whether it’s after a root canal or a bad fall resulting in facial trauma, dental crowns can save your smile and protect you from infection.
Your Lincoln dentist wanted to inform her patients on the many uses dental crowns offer. That’s why she’s talking about in today’s blog. You’ll be better equipped to discuss crowns if needed during your next dental visit.
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What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is an artificial covering, usually made of either porcelain or zirconia, designed to protect your tooth from bacteria and provide a natural appearance in your smile. In the past, dental crowns used to be gold or silver-colored, but as dentistry advanced more people wanted a crown that matched the rest of their teeth.
Dental crowns typically last about 7 years, but with proper care they can last for much longer. To avoid developing cavities in teeth underneath the crown, it’s important to practice regular oral care. This includes brushing twice a day with fluoridated toothpaste, flossing once a day, and seeing your Lincoln dentist every 6 months for exams and professional cleanings.
How are Dental Crowns Produced?
Dental crowns are usually produced in a dental lab and take anywhere from a few days to a couple weeks to produce. These restorations can be crafted from gold, metal alloys, ceramic, acrylic, porcelain, or any combination of these materials.
When you’ve completed a treatment that calls for a dental crown, your dentist will provide you with a temporary crown to cover the affected area until your permanent crown is produced. Then, you’ll come in for a follow-up appointment to have the permanent crown placed.
What are the Benefits of Dental Crowns in Lincoln?
Dental crowns have many uses and are one of the most common restorative items in your dentist’s toolbox:
- Cracked Teeth – Cracked teeth usually occur after an accident or from biting down too hard on tough foods or inedible objects. If a tooth is partially cracked, a dental crown can stop it from separating further.
- Fillings with Decay – Fillings will break down over time, especially if they are metal. If a filling has decay forming around it, your Lincoln dentist can clean and cover the area to prevent future bacteria from getting in.
- Post Root Canal Treatment – After you’ve complete root canal treatment, the dentist will need to cover the tooth. This is because they need to drill a hole into your tooth to access and remove diseased pulp during a root canal.
- Aesthetic Functions – If you’re looking to cover intrinsic stains, chips, or other imperfections in your smile, dental crowns can work. However, you’ll want to ask your dentist about porcelain veneers first.
You can always ask your dentist more questions about dental crowns if needed. Schedule an appointment with them today!
About the Author
Dr. Mimi Mebarek Long earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) College of Dentistry and completed her general practice residency at UNMC in Omaha. One of her biggest passions is offering patients gentle and empathetic dental care as well as giving back to the community of Lincoln. To learn more about her dental crown treatments and practice, contact her at (402) 420-2222 or visit her website.