Dental Crown Bend, OR
Dental crowns are used to restore the look of your tooth after certain dental procedures. In addition, people may also choose to have crowns placed for cosmetic reasons. At Cascadia Family Dental, we work with several variations of dental crowns. We will also provide information on the steps of the dental crown procedure, as well as how to protect your crown afterward.
Crown Variations
There are a few variations of dental crowns, and the specific variations will depend on the crown’s intended purpose. For example, crowns in the front of your mouth have more of a need to look like a natural tooth than those in the back of your mouth. We focus more on function and strength for crowns in the back of the mouth. Some common materials to use for dental crowns are full metal, porcelain fused to metal, resin, and ceramic. Metal crowns are ideal for the back teeth. The most popular metal is gold. Gold is incredibly strong compared to many other materials.
On the other hand, porcelain fused to metal, ceramic, and resin crowns are all ideal for the front teeth. These tend to be more fragile than metal, but they look more natural and blend in better with your teeth. Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are actually a combination of two types. They have a metal core and a porcelain outer shell. Ceramic crowns are similar. They are made fully of porcelain, however, rather than having a metal core resin crowns are made from composite resin, a substance used in many dental restoration treatments.
How is a Crown Placed?
A dental crown is placed over a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its shape, strength, and appearance. The process typically involves two visits. First, the dentist numbs the area, reshapes the tooth to create space for the crown, and takes an impression or digital scan. A temporary crown may be placed while the permanent one is being made. During the second visit, the dentist removes the temporary crown, checks the fit and color of the permanent crown, and then cements it securely onto the tooth.
After a Crown Procedure
Most patients experience little to no discomfort after a crown procedure. Some may notice mild sensitivity to hot or cold, but this typically subsides within a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage any discomfort, and most patients are able to resume their normal activities immediately. While wearing a temporary crown, extra care is needed. Patients should avoid sticky or hard foods that could dislodge it, and brush and floss carefully around the temporary crown.
Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
Proper care can extend the life of a crown. However, habits like grinding teeth, chewing ice, or biting nails can reduce its longevity. The lifespan of a dental crown depends on the material used and how well it is cared for. On average:
- Porcelain and ceramic crowns: 5 to 15 years
- Metal crowns: 10 to 20 years or more
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns: 7 to 12 years
Tips for Maintaining Your Dental Crowns
Caring for a dental crown is similar to caring for your natural teeth. To keep your crown in good condition, follow these tips:
- Brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily to remove plaque and prevent decay around the crown.
- Avoid biting into hard foods or objects that could damage the crown.
- If you grind your teeth at night, consider using a night guard to protect both the crown and your natural teeth.
By following proper oral hygiene and visiting your dentist regularly, you can ensure that your crown will last for many years. To learn more about dental crowns, call Cascadia Family Dental at (541) 848-5139.