Has your Atlanta dentist recommended a dental crown for you?
If you are like most beginners, you must be wondering what it actually means. A dental crown is like a protective cap that covers or hides damaged teeth. It is also considered when you need a major teeth makeover. It is one of the most effective and common treatments used to restore a tooth to its original functionality and aesthetics.
In this comprehensive guide, you will be learning everything about dental crowns in Atlanta so that you can feel confident and well-informed.
What exactly is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown refers to a tooth-shaped cap.
Think of it like a custom-fitted helmet for your tooth.
It covers and restores a damaged tooth, thereby improving its appearance, size, shape, and strength. Dental crowns are generally used for a weak tooth, a poorly shaped tooth, or to cover a tooth that has undergone a root canal. Sometimes, it is used to keep a dental bridge in place or cover a dental implant.
Once cemented into place, it completely covers the visible part of the tooth, resting at the gum line. Many dentists offer dental crowns in Atlanta and around, including Jain Dental Care.
Understanding the Types of Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are available as all-ceramic (including modern options like Zirconia and E-max)/porcelain, porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM), all-metal (including gold), and composite resin.
Front teeth are generally fitted with ceramic crowns. They appear natural, whereas the molars are capped with metal crowns because they are more durable.
PFM crowns offer a strength and beauty balance, and composite resin crowns are a cheaper alternative to temporary or non-esthetic crowns.
Dental Crown Procedure: What to Expect
If you are looking for dental crowns in Atlanta or elsewhere, here is the process you are likely to undergo…
Examination and X-rays: Your dentist will initially have a look at the tooth and take X-rays to examine the root and the bone around it. This ensures the tooth is healthy enough for a crown.
Numbing: A local anesthetic will be applied to numb the tooth and surrounding gum tissues, so you will not feel any pain.
Tooth Shaping: The dentist will file off the chewing part and the sides of your tooth. It leaves enough room so that the crown can be tightly fitted on your tooth without becoming too big. The amount of tooth removed depends on the crown material.
Impression (or Digital Scan):Once the tooth has been prepared, the next step is likely to create an exact impression or mold of your teeth. The model of the tooth is sent to the lab. The lab then creates a permanent crown based on this impression or mold.
Temporary Crown Placement:Meanwhile, you are made to wear a temporary crown as the permanent crown is being made (this may require 1-3 weeks). This is done to protect your prepared tooth, lower sensitivity, and maintain your bite. Made from acrylic or resin, the temporary crown is glued together with a temporary adhesive.
Appointment 2: Permanent Crown Placement.
Temporary Removal:You will have to visit the office again to get your temporary crown removed.
Fit and Adjustment:The permanent crown will be checked for fit, appearance, and bite before placing it over your teeth. If the crown ticks all the boxes, it will be secured to the tooth. However, it is important to ensure that everything looks and feels right before the final cementing. Minor adjustments can be made at this stage.
Cementing: When you and your dentist are satisfied with the fit and look, the permanent crown will be permanently cemented on your tooth using a powerful dental paste. Any excess cement will be scraped off, and your bite will be examined a final time.
Single-Visit Crowns (CEREC Technology)
There are dental offices that have CAD/CAM technology (such as CEREC). This allows them to design, mill, and place an all-ceramic crown in a single appointment, often in just a few hours. There’s no need for a temporary crown or a second visit. It’s a fantastic option for convenience!
Potential Risk and Consideration
Although dental crowns are very successful, it is better to know about possible problems:
Sensitivity:It is normal to have a certain amount of temporary sensitivity to both hot and cold following the procedure, particularly immediately after the placement of the temporary crown and within a few weeks following the cementation of the permanent crown. It will go away on its own.
In case the sensitivity is acute or chronic, it may be a problem with the nerve, and a root canal may have to be done.
Chipped Crown: Crowns made of porcelain (all-ceramic and PFM) may also chip, particularly when you bite into something hard. A small chip may be repaired; however, bigger chips may need a new crown. Metal crowns rarely chip.
Decay Under the Crown: A crown does not protect your tooth against decay. The tooth structure below the crown remains vulnerable, especially at the border between the crown and your natural tooth. The most important thing is good oral hygiene.
Allergic Reaction: Although it is very uncommon, some individuals may react allergically to the metal contained in some crowns (base-metal alloys in particular). In case you have had allergies to metal, ensure that you inform your dentist about this. A good substitute is all-ceramic crowns.
Gum Line Problems: At times, the crown border may irritate the gum tissue, resulting in inflammation. PFM crowns may also cause a dark line to be seen at the gum line as gums recede.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
A dental crown can last up to 5-15 years with proper care. The life expectancy is determined by several factors:
- Oral Care: The quality of brushing and flossing.
- Crown Material: Metal crowns are the most durable.
- Wear and Tear: Your crown may wear out sooner if you grind your teeth (bruxism) or clench your jaw.
- Habits: Chewing ice, pens, and hard candy may harm your crown.
- Location: Molars (crowns on the back teeth), where chewing power is more likely to be concentrated, could wear out earlier than those on front teeth.
- Dentist’s Expertise: The skill of a dentist relates to the fact that a prepared tooth and an accurately fitted crown have a lot to do with its life span.
Caring for Your New Crown: Tips for Longevity
Ensure Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth twice a day using fluoride toothpaste and floss every day. Take care of the space between the crown and your gum line because this is where plaque and bacteria may build up and cause decay or gum disease.
Avoid Hard, Sticky, or Chewy Foods:Avoid biting directly into very hard food (like ice, hard candy, unpopped popcorn kernels, bones) or very sticky food that might be able to dislodge the crown.
Treat Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): In case you grind or clench your teeth (particularly at night), discuss the issue with your dentist. They may suggest a night guard to guard your crown (and other teeth) against undue force.
Don’t Use Your Teeth as Tools: Do not use your crowned tooth (or any tooth) to open packages, tear tape, or bite fingernails. These practices may result in fractures or chips.
Dental Check-ups and Cleanings: Keep on visiting your dentist to get a regular check-up and cleaning. The dentist can keep an eye on the crown, look at the presence of decay along its edges, and keep the gums in good condition.
Cost and Insurance
The cost of a dental crown in Atlanta varies by several factors, such as
- The material chosen (all-ceramic, PFM, metal).
- The complexity of the procedure (e.g., if a root canal is needed first).
- Your geographic location.
- Your dentist’s fees.
Discuss the cost with your dentist before the treatment. Dental crowns are frequently regarded as a restorative (necessary) procedure, and many dental insurance plans will cover some of the cost of dental crowns. Check your insurance cover, deductibles, and co-pays with your insurance provider.
Ready to Have Your Smile Crowned?
A dental crown is a big investment in your teeth and your smile. Hope you have found all your answers regarding dental crowns. It enables you to make an informed decision.
If you are ready to give your smile a strong, beautiful life with dental crowns, get in touch with us at Jain Dental Care. We can’t wait to guide you through the process and help you achieve the lasting, healthy smile you deserve.
FAQS:
1. How much does a dental crown cost in Atlanta?
Depending on the type of crown material and your individual dental requirements, the price can range widely, but on average, it is between $800 and $2,500.
2. What is the procedure for getting a dental crown in Atlanta?
The process typically consists of two appointments, the first one being the preparation of the tooth and impressions, and the second one being the cementation of the final, custom-made crown.
3. How long does a dental crown last?
Dental crowns usually last 5 to 15 years, and in many cases, even longer, with proper care and good oral hygiene.
4. Does dental insurance cover crowns in Atlanta?
The majority of dental insurance plans in Atlanta cover a large percentage (typically 50% or more) of the cost, since crowns are regarded as a restorative procedure.
5. What should I do if my dental crown falls off or breaks?
Call your dentist immediately; keep the crown safe and try to avoid chewing on that side until you can be seen for re-cementing or replacement.
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