Learning More About Dental Crowns at Excel Dentistry
Hello, my name is Dr. Mayra Modesto-Garrido at Excel Dentistry in Glen Rock. I'm here to ask a few questions about dental crowns.
What is a dental crown?
A dental crown is actually a procedure done to preserve the integrity of your teeth. For example, if there's a restoration in your mouth, also known as a filling, that is large, over time those fillings tend to break. If there's any fracture or decay on those teeth, a dental crown can prevent a fracture and extend the life of a tooth.
What are the alternatives to dental crowns?
Many patients also ask about alternatives to dental crowns. If you need a dental crown, it's because the integrity of the tooth is in jeopardy. When your dentist recommends a dental procedure, it's because there's a need. If you don't undergo the procedure and get the dental crown, there's a possibility that the tooth could fracture, leading to extraction. By placing the crown, we can extend the life of the tooth and maintain a healthy mouth, enabling you to eat and smile.
What types of dental crowns are there?
Here in our practice, we do porcelain crowns and dental crowns that are aesthetic. Options include zirconia crowns and porcelain crowns that look like your natural tooth.
What different materials are used in dental crowns and what are the advantages and disadvantages of each?
Patients often ask about the different types of crowns available. Some crowns have a metal base topped with porcelain to resemble your natural tooth. There are also crowns with a zirconia base, a white material, also covered with porcelain. Porcelain crowns are more aesthetic, and we recommend them to our patients in our practice.
Is a dental crown necessary after a root canal treatment?
The answer is not always. Some teeth can undergo a root canal while preserving the tooth's structure and integrity without a crown. However, if you have a root canal due to extensive restoration, decay, or a fracture, a dental crown can prevent further fractures and maintain the tooth's structure. Each procedure depends on the case.
Does the dental crown placement hurt?
Patients frequently ask if dental crown placement is painful. With a dental crown on a vital tooth (one without an existing root canal), there might be sensitivity during placement. If requested, we can anesthetize the area to reduce sensitivity. For teeth with a root canal, anesthetic is unnecessary as the tooth is not vital, resulting in no sensitivity or pain.
Are there any consequences for getting a crown on a tooth?
There are no negative consequences. Placing a crown maintains the tooth's integrity and longevity, allowing you to smile, eat your food, and maintain a healthy dental life.
Is it worth putting children's teeth in crowns?
Regarding crowns on children's teeth, we only recommend them if a tooth is breaking or has an extensive restoration. To preserve the space for the permanent tooth that will come later, we can place a metal crown to maintain space and keep the tooth in the mouth.
Can you get cavities on a crown?
Patients often ask if they can get cavities on a tooth with a crown. The answer is yes. While the crown itself doesn't get cavities, the tooth holding the crown can develop cavities if not properly maintained. Bacteria can accumulate around the crown, so regular brushing and dental appointments are essential.
How should I take care of my dental crown?
To take care of a dental crown, it's important to maintain regular dental appointments and practice good oral hygiene at home. Brushing and flossing are crucial. Be careful not to use your crown to open bottles or other items, as this can fracture the porcelain.
How long can you expect the dental crown to last?
The longevity of a dental crown depends on how well you care for your teeth. Regular dental visits every six months and good oral hygiene at home can help your crown last for many years.
Does insurance cover dental crowns?
Insurance coverage for dental crowns varies. Dental insurance may cover procedures depending on your eligibility. We recommend that patients provide all their information during appointment setup, so we can verify coverage and ensure there are no issues with their procedures.
How can I schedule an appointment for a dental crown at Excel Dentistry?
At Excel Dentistry, your dental health is our priority. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to call our team at (551) 383-4441, or you can email us at [email protected]. Our staff would love to talk with you!