Everything You Need to Know About Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are one of the most common and versatile restorative treatments available in modern dentistry. Whether you’re dealing with a damaged tooth, a large filling, or simply want to improve the appearance of your smile, dental crowns can provide long-lasting protection and aesthetic enhancement. At Greene & Wood Family Dentistry, we help patients in Manhattan Beach and surrounding areas feel confident about their dental care decisions by explaining every step of the process. If you’re considering dental crowns, here’s what you can expect from start to finish.
What Are Dental Crowns?
A dental crown is a custom-made “cap” that covers the entire visible portion of a tooth. It restores the tooth’s shape, strength, and appearance while protecting it from further damage. Crowns are commonly recommended when a tooth is cracked, severely worn down, has a large cavity, or has undergone root canal treatment. They also cover dental implants. In cosmetic cases, they can be used to improve the look of misshapen or discolored teeth.
Dental crowns can be made from a variety of materials including porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, or a combination of materials. At Greene & Wood Family Dentistry, we often recommend tooth-colored ceramic or porcelain crowns for front teeth because they blend beautifully with your natural smile.
The Consultation: Your First Step
Your journey toward getting dental crowns begins with a consultation. During this initial appointment, your dentist will examine the affected tooth (or teeth) and assess whether a crown is the right treatment for your situation. Digital X-rays may be taken to evaluate the extent of decay or damage. Your dentist will also discuss your goals, preferences, and the best material for your crown.
This is a great time to ask questions and learn more about how dental crowns work, what the procedure involves, and how to prepare for it. At Greene & Wood Family Dentistry, we take the time to explain your treatment options and make sure you’re fully informed before moving forward.
The Crown Preparation Process
Getting a dental crown typically involves two visits. The first visit focuses on preparing the tooth and taking impressions.
- Tooth Preparation: Your dentist will begin by numbing the area to ensure your comfort. The tooth is then carefully reshaped to make room for the crown. Any decay or old filling material is removed in the process, and the tooth is contoured so the crown will fit properly.
- Impressions: After reshaping the tooth, your dentist will take a digital or physical impression. This model is used to create your custom crown, ensuring it fits perfectly with your bite and looks natural.
- Temporary Crown: While your permanent crown is being made in a dental lab, a temporary crown will be placed over your prepared tooth. This protects the tooth and allows you to function normally until your next visit.
Fitting the Permanent Crown
During your second visit, your dentist will remove the temporary crown and place the permanent one. Here’s what to expect:
- Fit and Color Check: The crown will be checked for fit, shape, and color. Small adjustments may be made to ensure a perfect match with your surrounding teeth.
- Cementing the Crown: Once everything looks and feels right, your dentist will use a special dental adhesive to bond the crown securely to your tooth.
- Final Bite Adjustment: After the crown is in place, your bite will be checked and adjusted to ensure it’s comfortable and doesn’t interfere with chewing.
Once your crown is in place, it should feel just like a natural tooth. Most patients quickly adapt and enjoy restored function and improved appearance.
Aftercare and Longevity
Dental crowns are durable and can last 10 to 15 years or more with proper care. To maintain your crown, follow these tips:
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush twice a day, floss daily, and use fluoride toothpaste to keep your crown and surrounding teeth healthy.
- Avoid Hard or Sticky Foods: While crowns are strong, biting down on ice or chewing sticky candies can damage them.
- Regular Dental Visits: Visit your dentist for routine cleanings and exams. They’ll monitor the crown and surrounding teeth to catch any issues early.
- Wear a Night Guard if Needed: If you grind your teeth at night, your dentist may recommend a night guard to protect your crown and natural teeth.
Discover the Benefits of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are a reliable and effective way to restore and protect damaged teeth. Whether you’re receiving a crown for restorative or cosmetic reasons, knowing what to expect can make the process smooth and stress-free. At Greene & Wood Family Dentistry, we take pride in delivering high-quality, personalized care so you feel confident and informed every step of the way. If you think you may need a crown or want to learn more about the benefits, schedule a consultation with us today. Our experienced team is here to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile that lasts.
The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.
