Ask Your Dentist These Questions Before Getting Crowns

Have you ever lost one or more of your teeth in an accident or suffered decay and damage to them? If this has happened, then you might need to know more about dental caps, also known as crowns! It is an artificial tooth bonded to the remaining part of your natural tooth, restoring its function and appearance. Most people are curious about what dental caps are and when they should get them. Here are some questions you may want to ask your dentist before getting one.

1. What are the advantages of dental crowns?

Caps are an excellent way to protect your teeth. Aside from protecting your teeth from damage, it can also give you the following benefits:

• Enhance the appearance of your teeth by removing stains
• Improve the strength of your teeth
• Because they are permanent, they serve to keep teeth in place
• Enhance your smile

As dental caps offer many benefits, they are considered a popular restorative option. 

2. What are the types of dental crowns?

Dental caps are often used in restoring damaged teeth but can also be used for cosmetic purposes to make teeth appear straighter. Tooth caps consist of durable materials like porcelain or metal. Moreover, they come in many forms, including the following:

• Porcelain –  looks natural and used for front teeth
• Gold-alloy – gold is combined with other metals, which increase the strength of the material.
• All ceramic- made from zirconium oxide and suitable for allergic individuals. 
• All resin-  consists of non-toxic materials and glass beads and is the most inexpensive type. 
• Porcelain bonded to precious metal – porcelain is attached to a base, such as gold or metal. They are natural and are used for back teeth. 
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3. How long is the dental crown procedure?

The treatment usually require two dental appointments. In the first appointment, your dentist will examine your tooth and bone to determine what type of tooth cap you need. He will take an impression of your teeth and send it to the laboratory to create your cap.  The temporary cap will protect your teeth while you are waiting for your permanent crown. On your second visit, your dentist removes the temporary cover and places the permanent one with dental cement.

4. How to take care of dental crowns?

Cleaning the tooth cap is just as important as cleaning your natural teeth. Here are some tips you can follow taking care of your dental caps:

• Brush your teeth and floss regularly.
• Avoid hard and sticky foods such as ice and candies
• If you have a habit of grinding your teeth, use a mouthguard.
• Use fluoride toothpaste to strengthen your teeth and new cap.
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5. How long will crowns last?

The average lifespan of a dental cap is five to ten years. However, you can extend its life as long as you observe proper oral hygiene. As part of your dental care regimen, your dentist will explain how to maintain the best condition for your caps. 

If you’ve been thinking about getting a dental cap, now is the time to do it. It is a great way to restore your tooth and restore your smile. Make an appointment with your dentist in Newmarket to discuss your options.