A crown is a cover or “cap” your dentist can place over a tooth as restoration. The crown restores the tooth to its normal shape, size, and function. A crown can make the tooth stronger or improve the way it looks.
Reasons you may need a crown:
Dental crowns can be expected to last anything from 5 to 25 years. This is based on the lifestyle of the patient and how well you care for your crown. With good oral hygiene, flossing, and regular checkups, your dental crown can last for many years.
Dental crowns are made from a range of different materials, including metals such as gold, palladium, chromium and nickel. These are very durable materials, and the longest-lasting option. More natural-looking options are ceramic, porcelain and resin, which while not as heavy-duty, with good maintenance, can last for many years.
The cost of a dental crown depends on materials used and preparation required to attach the crown to the tooth. Cost will also depend on whether the patient has insurance, and what is covered on their plan.
In some instances, it’s possible to have your crown fitted on the same day. To find out if you are a candidate for same-day treatment, come and see us. If you are in need of underlying treatment to prepare your tooth - you may require more than one visit; in some cases, the tooth requires stabilizing before the crown can be successfully fixed. In circumstances where treatment requires multiple trips to the office, your dentist will be able to attach a temporary crown until your permanent finish is ready.
Dental crowns are a great option for a missing tooth, lost though decay or injury. Your crown will be a permanent, attractive replacement to its natural predecessor, and in many cases, improve upon the appearance of the tooth it is replacing.
This is more alarming than it is a problem to fix. Find your crown – hopefully you didn’t swallow it. Assess your tooth – did you lose your crown because of impact or injury? Check to see the condition of the area your crown came apart from, and whether you have sustained any injury to your gum, or the root of the tooth. Gently clean the area with a soft toothbrush and rinse away any debris. Schedule an appointment to see your dentist as soon as possible. They will advise what temporary measures you can take until your visit, to determine the best course of action that will save your crown and restore your tooth to its optimum health and strength. DO NOT USE ANY NON-DENTAL ADHESIVES OR GLUES. They will not fix the tooth, and can cause damage to your root and gums.
