To understand crown dentistry, we first need to define some terms. Let us start it off with what a dental crown is.  A crown is a cap used to cover a patient’s tooth. Usually, crown customization aims to fix a tooth’s size and shape. It also strengthens the tooth and enhances its performance. The procedure to place a crown encases the tooth for total protection. A dentist can recommend the use of crowns in the following situations:

• Large cavities that are difficult to fill.
• Dental implant coverage.
• Cosmetic reasons, such as badly shaped teeth.
• Cracked, worn out and weak teeth.
• Restoration after a root canal.

Babies can also have dental crowns. A pediatric dentistry can choose to use crowns on baby teeth damaged by decay from poor oral hygiene.

What Are the Different Types of Crown Dentistry?

Crowns can be permanent or temporary and made from various materials. It is up to the patient to choose the crown they want according to their need and preference.

Temporary –mostly made of acrylic-based materials or stainless steel. A dentist’s office can make them. On the other hand, a dental laboratory makes permanent crowns. Temporary crowns are usually used to protect your tooth as you wait for the permanent crown production.

Metals-made of alloys with high gold or platinum content. They could also have base metal alloys such as nickel chromium or cobalt chromium. Due to their material, metal crowns are durable and endure wear and tear from biting and chewing. They will rarely break or chip. The main disadvantage is the color, which doesn’t match the teeth color in the rest of the mouth. This is why using metal at the back of the mouth, where they are less visible, is more common.

Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal– this is a good option for back or front teeth crowns. Porcelain-fused-to-metal matches the color of neighboring teeth. However, it is not as durable as a metal crown. Over time, it wears out and can break off or chip.

All- Resin crowns– these are cheaper than the other crown types. However, the cheaper prices can prove costly in the long run. These have a tendency to wear down and break off faster than porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns do.

All –ceramic or All-porcelain – these are best for patients with metal allergies and are the best cosmetic dentistry choice. These crowns provide the best color match with natural teeth compared to other crown types.

When is Crown Dental Work Required?

There are several reasons for a crown. The top four scenarios include:

Root Canal Crown

A dentist will recommend a root canal if a tooth has become decayed or infected irreparably. Upon root canal completion, an applied crown helps strengthen the weakened tooth.

For Cosmetic Reasons

A porcelain or ceramic crown can be used to improve the appearance of a damaged or discolored tooth. Also, if a patient has an ugly filling, a crown can cover it up.

When A Tooth is About to Break

If a patient has a cracked tooth a crown is necessary. A crown reduces the extreme pain occasioned by the cracked tooth and it also makes the tooth stronger.

Dental Implants Crown

Dental implants act as replacements for teeth missing roots. In such scenarios, it is possible to replace a missing tooth with a crown. When a dentist places a dental implant into a jawbone, a crown covers it.  This covers the implant and allows a patient to chew normally. A crown is part of the permanent restoration.

Steps Taken During Crown Dentistry in Greenville, SC

There are a couple steps involved for determining crown placement. The steps involved will also involve two dental visits.

1. The dentist will first begin by preparing the tooth for the crown. They will remove its outer portion and any decay. If the patient’s crown needs additional tooth structure support, the dentist will build up the tooth’s core.
2. After completed preparations, an impression is done to provide the exact model of the crown needed.
3. You will then have a temporary crown placed as you wait for your permanent crown production. This usually takes about two weeks. With the temporary crown, your tooth may be very sensitive to heat and cold. Also eating sticky foods or chewing gum with the temporary crown is not advisable.
4. The dentist or the laboratory technician will use the impression taken to make a crown for you.
5. When it is ready, the dentist will place it in your mouth and make the necessary adjustments. When you are happy with how it feels and looks the dentist will cement it into place.

How to Care For Your Teeth after Having a Procedure Done At a Crown Dentistry in Greenville, SC

To ensure no damage to a crown occurs do the following things:

• Brush your teeth twice daily and floss once to get read of plaque, which is bacteria.
• Use oral care products with an ADA seal of acceptance. Such products received recommendations by the American Dental Association’s Standards for oral safety and effectiveness.
• Don’t chew ice, hard foods, objects etc. It is important not to do so particularly for colored crowns. Chewing hard foods has the potential to damage your crown.
• Visit your dentist often for regular check-ups and professional teeth cleaning.

Caring for your teeth prevents future pain and suffering, not to mention fees.

Crown Dentistry in Greenville, SC

If you want to find out more about crown dentistry work contact Dr. H. Carl Burton Jr, DMD. Dr. Burton and his team of professional dental staff will offer all the advice you need to know about crowns. They will carry out any dental work in a compassionate and caring manner, taking into consideration your needs and concerns. Call us today at (864) 627-1010 and ask about our dental crown patient packages. Dr. Burton and his team can fix your teeth up beautifully, so you will be smiling in no time!