I work as a clerical assistant in a pediatric dental office, and I am commonly surprised by the number of children who are scared of the dentist. Many kids think that cleanings will be painful, and they believe they will be scolded for eating sugary foods. Children are also extremely frightful of the noises made by the water spraying tools and the suction devices. As adults, we know that dental cleanings are easy and free of pain. We need to impart this knowledge to our children so they know not to fear the dentist. I have provided blogs that will help you speak with your child about dental care. Good communication, trips to your own dentist, and online videos can assist you. So will good brushing techniques that will make your child proud to see the dentist. Enjoy my articles so you can help your child build oral care confidence.
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The Profound Importance of Regular Dental Care 17 November 2023
Teaching Your Children About the Dentist
Answering Your Top Questions About Dental Crowns
Alfred Kelley
If your dentist has suggested a dental crown to you, chances are you have multiple questions about the treatment. And considering that these crowns will be fitted into your mouth, it's only right that you be fully aware of what will be happening. Below are answers to some questions about dental crowns.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a dental cap that a dentist places over a tooth to rebuild it to normal size, shape, strength, and function. Crowns are made from various materials, including ceramic, porcelain, metal alloys, metal-ceramic, and composite resin. Your dentist will assess your teeth and gums to determine the right material for you.
When Do You Need a Dental Crown?
Dental crowns may be helpful for various situations. These include:
- Replacing a filling
- Cosmetic purposes
- Strengthening a weak/fractured tooth
- Attaching an implant
- Protecting a tooth prone to cracks
- Saving a tooth after root canal treatment
- Fixing damaged or heavily discolored teeth
For some of these situations, there are other alternatives to crowns. For example, dental bonding or veneers can also be used for cosmetic purposes. The option to choose will depend on various factors like your preferences, the nature of your condition, and how long you want the treatment to last.
How Is the Dental Crown Placed?
Usually, the process takes two separate dental appointments. On the first visit, your dental professional prepares your tooth for the crown. The preparation here will vary from person to person, depending on your condition. For example, if your tooth has a nerve infection, the preparation may involve root canal therapy, and if you have a leaky filling, it may entail removing any present decay.
After that, the dentist will take an impression of your tooth and send the mold to a lab, where the crown is manufactured. Meanwhile, the dentist fits you with a temporary crown to cover you until the second visit.
On the second visit, your dentist removes the temporary crown, cleans your tooth, and bonds the permanent crown onto the tooth using dental cement.
How Long Will a Dental Crown Last?
With proper care, your dental crown can last for decades. But on average, a crown lasts for about 10-15 years. Some activities that can reduce the crown's lifespan include grinding teeth, chewing ice, poor oral hygiene, and biting inedible things. The material used on the crown will also determine its lifespan.
That said, you can enhance the lifespan of your crown by:
- Brushing at least twice a day
- Flossing daily
- Visiting your dentist regularly for dental cleanings
- Avoiding hard foods that can harm the crown
For more information on dental crowns, contact your dentist.
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