Dental crowns are one of the most commonly used treatments in dentistry. Your dentist in Pinellas Park, FL, may recommend dental crowns for a number of reasons. If you’ve never had a dental crown before, you may be wondering what they are and how they work. In this article, Dr. Wade and her team share everything about dental crowns. 

What Is a Dental Crown?

So, what is a dental crown? Think of this as a “cap” that is custom-made to go over a patient’s tooth. Dental crowns can be made out of metal, stainless steel, porcelain, and more. The type of ground your dentist places will depend on their dental office. As mentioned above, dental crowns are used for many reasons. Once the permanent crown is made, your dentist will cement the crown into place. Crowns are made to replicate natural teeth, so you won’t notice a difference.

When Is Dental Crown Placement Necessary?

There are several reasons for a dental crown. The following are the four most common reasons why Dr. Wade may recommend a dental crown for your smile: 

Reason No. 1: Post Root Canal Therapy

A root canal is often recommended by a dentist when a tooth has become permanently damaged or diseased. Following the completion of the root canal, a crown will be used to restore strength to the weakening tooth. The dental crown protects the natural tooth from further damage.

Reason #2: For Aesthetic Purposes.

Porcelain or ceramic crown can improve the appearance of a tooth that has been damaged or discolored. If a patient has a visible filling, a crown can be utilized to conceal it.

Reason #3: Tooth Needs To Extra Strength.

Cracked teeth are commonly treated with a dental crown. Many patients who call us for emergency dentistry end up with a dental crown for this exact reason. A fractured tooth can be quite painful due to increased sensitivity, explains Dr. Green, an emergency dentist in Parker, CO. Furthermore, a dental crown provides relief while also strengthening the tooth.

Reason #4: Dental Implants

Dental implants are a permanent option for missing teeth. The implant is inserted into the jaw bone and topped off with a dental crown. The crown gives the patient to have full functionality of their teeth. 

What Is the Lifespan of Dental Crowns?

Since dental crowns are so popular, they’re made to last. Of course, you must take good care of your dental crowns, says Dr. Wade. So, how long can dental crowns last? Typically, crowns last anywhere from 5 to 15 years. Other depending factors include the material used, the daily habits, and the dentist. Gold and porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns, on average, last the longest, whereas all-porcelain and all-ceramic crowns last the shortest.

How to Get the Most Out Of Your Dental Crowns

Maintaining appropriate dental hygiene is the most crucial aspect of extending the life of your dental crowns. Brushing twice a day, flossing, and getting regular dental cleanings and check-ups are all part of it. Furthermore, lifestyle adjustments may help get the most out of your dental crowns. Avoiding hard foods such as hard candy, ice, and nuts will help protect your crowns and prevent chipping. Dental crowns will not last a lifetime. However, if you care for them properly and follow your dentist’s advice, you should expect them to last at least a decade.

Contact Your Park Boulevard Dentist

In need of a crown? Contact Park Boulevard Family Dentistry! Our team is happy to help, no matter what the reason be. Give us a call today to schedule your dental crown consultation at our dental office in Pinellas Park, FL!