Answering Your FAQs About Dental Crowns and Temporary Crowns
Dental crowns are dental restorations that look like your natural teeth. These are also referred to as “caps” because they cover the teeth and protect them from damage. Crowns are custom-made to match your specific smile, meaning they will look and feel like your natural teeth.
As one of the most versatile and common dental restorations used today, many patients have questions about dental crowns and temporary crowns. We have your most frequently asked questions about dental crowns answered here.
Dental Crown FAQs
Why Would You Need a Dental Crown?
You may need a dental crown if you have had a root canal procedure, as a crown will help protect the tooth after the inner chamber of the tooth is cleaned and sealed. Crowns are also used in restorative procedures such as dental bridges and dental implants.
Patients may also need a dental crown if they have a broken or cracked tooth, or if they have a large filling that compromises the natural structure of the tooth. In short, a dental crown helps reinforce the structure of a tooth, allowing for a sturdy and attractive restoration option.
Crowns can also be used for a single discolored tooth or a misshapen tooth that does not match the rest of your smile.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
Dental crowns can last for over a decade when properly cared for, which includes maintaining good oral hygiene and seeing your dentist regularly. However, if you have a temporary dental crown, these restorations are not permanent, as they are designed to last for only a few weeks until your permanent crown can be placed.
Can You Whiten Dental Crowns?
Unlike your natural teeth, you cannot whiten dental crowns. During the fabrication process, your dentist in Asheville will make every effort to match the crown to your natural teeth. So if you are considering teeth whitening, it’s best to get this procedure done prior to getting dental crowns. If your crown is on a non-visible tooth, such as in the back of your mouth, teeth whitening would still be an option after getting dental crowns.
Are Dental Crowns Permanent?
Yes, dental crowns are permanent. Although they can be removed—and will need to be replaced eventually—your natural tooth underneath the crown will be weaker than the rest of your teeth and will need to be covered by a crown or another type of restoration to remain healthy.
Can You Get a Cavity Under a Crown?
It is possible to get a cavity under a dental crown. However, if your crown is properly placed and bonded, the risk of getting a cavity underneath a crown is low. Keeping your regular dental appointments helps your Asheville dentist check your crown to be sure your teeth are healthy and that decay is not forming underneath your restoration.
Do You Need a Root Canal to Get a Crown?
No. Since crowns are used for many applications in dentistry, root canal therapy isn’t necessary to get a dental crown.
How Strong Are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are very durable. The crowns we offer at Saunders DDS are made from porcelain ceramic and are designed to look and function just like your natural teeth. That being said, it’s important to not use dental crowns for anything you wouldn’t use your natural teeth for, such as cracking nuts, chewing ice, or biting your nails.
Do Dental Crowns Hurt?
A dental crown should not hurt. As with a filling, typically only local anesthesia is needed to install a dental crown. Your Asheville dentist will provide you with detailed instructions for taking care of your new crown and minimizing discomfort after the procedure.
How Much Do Dental Crowns Cost?
The price of dental crowns varies depending on the size and location of the crown, what procedure the crown is being used for, and if your dental insurance covers the procedure. Your dentist can provide you with an estimate when you come in for a consultation.
Do Dental Crowns Feel Like Normal Teeth?
Yes, once your permanent crown is installed and properly bonded to your tooth, it should look and feel just like your normal teeth.
How Long Can You Have a Temporary Crown?
Temporary crowns are only designed to last as long as it takes to make and place your permanent crown, typically only two to three weeks.
Can Permanent Crowns Be Adjusted?
Yes, it is possible to adjust permanent crowns to ensure the perfect fit. If your dental crown is causing you any type of discomfort or something feels “off” with your smile, do not hesitate to contact your dentist and schedule an appointment.
Is There a Difference Between “Capping” or “Crowning” a Tooth?
No. Both “capping” and “crowning” a tooth refer to dental crowns. Dental crowns are also referred to as “caps” because they essentially cap, or cover, a natural tooth to enhance and protect it.
Can You Crack or Damage Dental Crowns?
Although dental crowns are very durable, it is possible to crack or damage a dental crown. A crown is more likely to be damaged if:
- There is decay under the crown
- You are misusing your teeth
- The crown was not properly placed or bonded
- You clench or grind your teeth
If you have a damaged dental crown, it’s important to see your dentist as soon as possible to fix your restoration.
How Long Does the Procedure for Dental Crowns Take?
The procedure for placing a crown can be done in one office visit and will typically take less than an hour. Your dentist will let you know what to expect when you come in to have measurements taken for the crown and to have your temporary crown placed. In some cases, your dentist may be able to do your permanent restoration in just one visit with same-day dental crown technology.
Can You Get Dental Crowns on All Your Teeth?
hile you can have crowns placed on virtually all your teeth, there may be more appropriate restorative dentistry options available to you.
How Are Dental Crowns Made?
Dental crowns are made by taking impressions of your tooth and sending the measurements to a lab that will make your restoration out of porcelain ceramic to fit your unique smile.
Have More Questions? Contact Saunders DDS Today
Saunders DDS is your local dentist in Asheville. Our experienced team is here to answer all your questions about dental crowns. Have a question that you didn’t see here? Don’t hesitate to reach out to us by giving us a call at (828) 277-6060. You can also use our contact form to reach us online or request an appointment. We look forward to helping your smile look its best!
Get the perfect dental crown for your smile! Contact Saunders DDS, your dentist in Asheville, to learn more about dental crowns and ask any further questions that you may have. Call today at (828) 277-6060.