Dental Crowns in Sanborn, IA
Have you recently experienced a trauma that fractured your tooth? If so, dentists in Sanborn, IA, may recommend placing a crown over your repaired tooth to protect and strengthen it. Dental crowns are popular dental prostheses placed over teeth after a procedure or to give them a pleasing appearance.
Importance of Crowns
Dentists at Sanborn Dental Associates use crowns or caps in many ways to support teeth in several areas of dentistry. A crown is the top part of the tooth that is visible above the gumline. It’s easy to place over a tooth after preparing it for a crown. Here is a list showing some of the reasons for placing dental crowns near you.
- Stabilize a tooth after a root canal procedure
- Cover a misshapen or discolored tooth
- Cover a broken, cracked, or chipped tooth to prevent further damage
- Complete a dental implant or fixed bridge procedures
- Revitalize the appearance of teeth
Crown Materials
Depending on the reason for using a crown and its location, our dentists near you will choose its material. The options are:
- Gold, Silver or Metal Alloys
- Porcelain or Ceramic
- Porcelain Fused with Metal
- Composite Materials
- Zirconia
How Long to Get a Crown?
Each patient gets a customized crown, so our dentists will make the impression of your tooth with a mold or take digital images of it. The impression or images get sent to a dental lab to manufacture the crown. It takes at least two weeks from the time it’s ordered until it arrives at our dentists’ offices. Until placing the permanent cap, you will wear a temporary one.
Same-Day Crowns
Many dentists can provide dental crowns in Sanborn, IA, the same day they work on your tooth. The same day or CEREC® crown is one that dentists manufacture in their offices. This system prepares and measures the tooth and mills the crown from dental porcelain. In total, the procedure takes two to four hours from examination to milling the crown to placing it.
Call our offices to book an appointment with our dentists at Sanborn Dental Associates if you need a dental crown.
FAQs
What exactly is a dental crown, and why would I need one?
A dental crown is a cap settled over a damaged or decayed tooth to preserve its shape, size, strength, and appearance. You might need one if you have a weak tooth, a large filling, a broken tooth, or after a root canal to protect and restore the tooth.
How long do dental crowns typically last before needing replacement?
Dental crowns most often last between 5 to 15 years. Their lifespan depends on factors like your oral hygiene, habits like grinding your teeth, and the type of material used for the crown.
What are the different types of dental crowns and their benefits?
There are several types of dental crowns, including metal, porcelain-fused-to-metal, all-ceramic, and zirconia crowns. Metal crowns are very durable, porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns look natural, all-ceramic crowns are great for front teeth, and zirconia crowns are both strong and natural-looking.
Is the process of getting a dental crown painful or uncomfortable?
Getting a dental crown is generally not a painful procedure. Your dentist will numb the area so you won't feel any pain during the procedure. You might feel some discomfort after the numbing wears off, but this usually goes away quickly.
What steps are involved in the dental crown procedure from start to finish?
The dental crown procedure typically involves two visits. First, the dentist in Sanborn prepares the tooth by removing decay and shaping it. They then take an impression of the tooth to create the crown. You might get a temporary crown until the permanent one is ready. On the second visit, the dentist places the permanent crown and adjusts it for a perfect fit.
How should I care for my dental crown to ensure its longevity?
To better care for your dental crown, brush and floss your teeth daily, avoid chewing hard foods like ice or hard candy, and visit your dentist near you regularly for check-ups and cleanings. Adequate oral hygiene can help your crown last longer.
Can a dental crown become loose or damaged, and what should I do if this happens?
Yes, a dental crown can turn loose or damaged. If this happens, contact your dentist as soon as possible. They can re-cement a loose crown or repair or replace a damaged one.
What are the pros and cons of choosing a dental crown over other treatments?
Pros of dental crowns include restoring the function and appearance of a damaged tooth, providing strength and protection, and lasting a long time. Cons can include the cost, the need to take out some of the natural tooth structure, and potential sensitivity after the procedure.
How can I decide if I need a dental crown or just a filling?
Whether you need a crown or a filling depends on the extent of the damage to your tooth. Fillings are suitable for small areas of decay, while crowns are better for larger areas, weakened teeth, or after a root canal. Your dentist can easily recommend the best option based on your specific situation.
What should I expect during the recovery period after getting a dental crown?
After getting a dental crown, you might experience some sensitivity or discomfort for a few days. Avoid eating too hard or sticky foods until the numbness wears off. Continue with good oral hygiene practices, and if you experience any persistent pain or issues, contact your dentist.
