Your teeth, like any other element in nature, will have their wear and tear and decay with time. Discolouration and cracks are the most common. Getting a crown is one of the easiest and most common solutions for this. Here are seven commonly asked questions on crowns cleared for you if you’re planning on getting it done for yourself and have the same doubts.
- When do I need a crown?
Your dentist may recommend a crown for many reasons. Sometimes it is recommended for heavily discoloured or very weak and sensitive teeth. Teeth that are extremely prone to cracking, splitting or those that already have cracks may also be suggested for crowning. It is also recommended to protect a tooth following root canal treatment, and implant crowns are used to protect an implant that replaces a tooth.
- Will crowns look natural?
Absolutely yes! Even if you are planning on getting a crown done just for one tooth, it is made to match the colour of the rest of your natural teeth.
If you’re planning to get a set of teeth crowned, a lot of factors like your natural teeth colour, skin tone, age, and sometimes even eye colour are taken into consideration for the perfect smile makeover. Your dentist will inform you well about all these factors for you to make an informed decision.
- How many sessions would be required?
Typically, it is completed within two sessions. The first one is where your teeth are prepared and impressions are taken. The dentist informs you about all the important factors to be considered to move ahead with your decision and a temporary crown is fixed.
The second session, known as a “fitting appointment” is when the actual crown is cemented on your teeth.
- Is it a painful procedure?
The procedure is pain-free and some patients will experience no discomfort at all. While, some others may experience slight sensitivity to hot and cold, so it is best to have a conversation with your dentist regarding your concerns if any.
- What type of material is a crown made of?
Crowns can be made of porcelain, ceramic and even gold alloys. You can talk to your dentist to figure out which material would best suit you.
- How long does a crown last?
Crowns can last a lifetime with proper care. However, loose or broken crown happens frequently due to decay of the underlying natural tooth, excessive grinding of teeth or chewing on hard food items.
For proper aftercare, brush twice daily using fluoride toothpaste and floss regularly. Avoid chewing on hard food items and if you have the habit of grinding teeth, ask your dentist for night guards. Visit your dental hygienist regularly for the proper upkeep of the cement.
- Does a crowned tooth get a cavity?
The crown in itself doesn’t get cavities, but the underlying tooth can still be susceptible to cavities if there is no proper upkeep of dental hygiene. If the underlying tooth starts to decay due to cavities, the crown may no longer fit it and can fall off. You can avoid this problem with regular cleanings and checkups.
For more doubt-clearing sessions with the most experienced dentist in Satwa, visit National Medical Centre, a dentist clinic in Satwa where you can find doctors adept in crowning to meet your personal crowning needs.
