Dental crowns are among the most common restorative dentistry solutions. They can save cracked, severely decayed, or worn teeth. They are vital supports for dental bridges, and they are an integral part of root canal therapy. But despite their prevalence, patients often have questions about dental crowns, especially if this is their first time to undergo treatment.
At Metropolitan Dental Care in Denver, CO, we encourage our patients to ask as many questions as they like! We believe that knowledge is key to successful, unstressful dental care. We are also proud to offer crowns made from a variety of materials, and we will help you choose the right option for your needs.
For additional questions or to schedule an appointment, contact Metropolitan Dental Care today.
What can I eat with dental crowns?
Once your final crown is in place, there should be no restrictions to your diet.
However, in most cases, your dentist will need to place a temporary crown while your final restoration is being fabricated. A temporary crown is not as secure as a permanent crown, so you should avoid particularly hard or sticky foods while it is in place.
Does it hurt to get a crown?
Your dentist will numb your tooth before getting started, so you should primarily feel a sense of pressure during the whole process. After your crown is in place, you may experience some mild discomfort, sensitivity, and gum inflammation. These symptoms will usually subside within a few days, and you can often alleviate them with over-the-counter pain medication. It may also help to temporarily limit very hot or very cold foods.
Which type of crown is right for me?
We offer dental crowns made from a range of materials: porcelain, porcelain-fused-to-metal, precious metal, and zirconia.
One of the most important considerations is the location of the crown. If you are crowning a front tooth, for example, you will likely want a tooth-colored restoration that will blend in with your smile. In these cases, porcelain may be the best choice. But since porcelain is not strong enough for the back teeth, your dentist may recommend metal or zirconia crowns.
You and your dentist should also consider your budget and the time you are willing to spend in the dental chair.
How long do crowns last?
The lifespan of crowns largely depends on the material used. For instance, ceramic crowns usually last about 15 years. Gold crowns can last two to four decades. Of course, they are not as realistic as tooth-colored crowns, so this may affect your decision when choosing the right type of restoration.
Other factors that impact the lifespan of dental crowns include your oral hygiene and overall dental health. For instance, if you suffer from misalignment or chronic teeth grinding, it can put excess pressure on your restoration, which could damage it over time.
Schedule an Appointment Today
If you have a compromised tooth and are looking for the right restorative option, contact our Denver office today.
Book an appointment at Metropolitan Dental Care online or give us a call at 303-534-2626.
