Understanding the Process of Getting a Dental Crown
When teeth become damaged or broken, many people turn to dental crowns as a popular solution that allows them to restore their teeth. Not only do dental crowns allow patients to eat properly again, but they’re also a great way to regain confidence, especially if you’ve lost teeth in the front section of your smile.
For those who are curious about the process of getting a dental crown, this blog covers how dental crowns are placed on the tooth, how long the procedure takes, and answer some common questions about dental crowns.
How Long Does a Crown Take?
Some dental procedures can take a significant time to complete. Luckily, crowns aren’t one of them. How long does a crown take to fit can vary from person to person, but usually the fitting itself should not take more than an hour.
However, the fitting is only one part of the process. In terms of how long a crown can take from start to finish, the answer can be anywhere from a few hours to 2 to 3 weeks. Traditionally, dental crowns take two appointments, as your dentist will need to send away scans and moulds to a lab for your crown to be made before it can be fitted. Both of these appointments should be between 60-90 minutes, but may be a few days or weeks apart depending on when the mould is ready.
Modern technology like CEREC means that same-day crowns, as the name suggests, can be made and fitted on the same day as your first dentist’s visit, so you can receive a new dental crown within just a few hours. Your dentist will help you determine which option is best for you.
How Is a Crown Put on a Tooth?
For both traditional and same-day crowns, the crowns are put on the tooth in the same way:
- The dentist will prepare the tooth for a crown by removing any decay or damage, and shape the tooth to fit the crown.
- The dentist will take impressions and digital scans of your teeth and gums in order to create a dental crown that fits you perfectly.
- For traditional crowns, if necessary, a temporary crown will be placed to protect the tooth while the permanent crown is created. For same-day crowns, or once your traditional crown is complete, the dentist will fit your tooth as soon as it’s ready using dental cement.
What are Dental Crowns Made of?
What are crowns made of? The answer can differ because dental crowns are available in a range of different materials, each with their own price points, strengths, and aesthetics. Popular materials include:
- Porcelain Crowns
- Metal Crowns
- Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
- Ceramic Crowns
- Resin Crowns
How Long Should A Crown Last?
When it comes to how long should a crown last, the answer can be anywhere from 5 to 15 years or even longer with proper care. Metal crowns are made from alloys like gold and platinum typically last a long time, and are often used for molars or back teeth due to their strength.
Ceramic and porcelain are ideal for front teeth as they naturally mimic the colour of teeth, however they can be more susceptible to wear and tear. Resign is also cost-effective and looks natural, can are generally considered less durable compared to other options.
Contact Smileon Perth For Dental Crowns Today
Think you could benefit from a crown or concerned about the condition of your teeth? Contact us today to schedule your appointment or consult with one of our experienced dentists. We can provide personalised advice on the best options for your needs.
How Long Does the First Crown Appointment Take?
If you’re having a traditional crown, the first appointment for a dental crown typically takes anywhere from an hour to 90 minutes. This includes preparing and shaping the teeth for the crown, taking impressions and digital scans, as well as fitting a temporary crown if necessary.
Do Crowns Require Ongoing Care?
Dental crowns should be treated in the same way as your teeth. As with any teeth, caring for your dental crowns will help them stay strong for years to come, so be sure to brush and floss daily to avoid plaque buildup. Avoiding hard and sticky foods can also prevent them from being dislodged. And, of course, having regular check-ups will ensure the dentists can monitor your dental crowns and your teeth for any potential issues.
How Do I Choose The Right Type of Crown?
Dental crowns can be made out of many different materials and can be traditional or same-day crowns. The right type for you will depend on your needs, your budget, and what is available at your dental clinic. Your dentist will be able to walk you through your options and provide advice on which crown option is right for you.