What are dental crowns? Why do you need them?

A dental crown is a tooth that helps to restore a tooth's shape, size, and strength. It also enhances your teeth's appearance. 

Your dentist may check your mouth and suggest you get dental crowns to: 

- Protect a weak tooth from breaking or decaying 

- Restore a broken tooth 

- Cover a dental implant 

- Cover a discoloured or misshapen tooth 

- Make a cosmetic modification 

What can you expect during the procedure?

Although dental crowns are a common procedure, many patients still don't know what to expect. Here's a quick overview of the dental crown process, from start to finish: 

The First Visit

During your first visit, your dental care provider will examine your teeth and take X-rays to see if you are a candidate for dental crowns. The dentist will then prepare your teeth for the crowns if you are. This usually involves removing any decay or damaged tooth structure. Next, an impression of your teeth will be taken. This impression will be used to create your custom dental crowns. 

The Second Visit

Your dentist will place the dental crowns on your teeth during your next visit. First, they will check the fit and colour of the crowns. Once the fit and colour are satisfactory, the dentist will cement the crowns. 

After the Procedure

It is okay to experience sensitivity after your dental crown procedure. This should go away within a few days. It would be best to not consume hard or chewy foods for the first few days. Be sure to brush and floss regularly and see your dentist for regular check-ups to ensure that your dental crowns are suitable. 

Between the Two Visits

While you wait, the dental technician has sent your impressions to a laboratory where they use moulds and prepare them for shipment. Once finished with this process, we will return them in about two weeks or so! 

The Follow-Up Visit

During this last step, the dentist will check to see how well the dental crowns fit and if they match the colour of your teeth. They will also ensure that there is no decay or damage to the tooth underneath the crown. If everything looks good, you're all done! 

Now that you know what is involved in the dental crown procedure, you can relax and let the dentist do their job. With proper care, your dental crowns should last for many years. 

If you have any queries regarding the dental crown procedure, it is best to talk to your dentist. They will answer all your questions and offer clarity. Remember, it is essential to get your dental crown procedure done by a qualified and experienced dentist to ensure the best results. Only a qualified expert will be able to carry out the procedure in the right manner and give you the results you expected. Always choose your dentist wisely, either through recommendations or by checking reviews of their clinic.