Dental Cap Treatment: An Expert Guide to Protecting Your Smile

What Is a Dental Cap and Why Do You Need One?

Imagine a cap as a covering that goes over your old tooth. Unlike a filling, which fixes a part of the tooth a crown covers most or all of the part of the tooth that you can see above the gums. It gives the rest of the tooth strength.

Your dentist might suggest a crown if a tooth has a hole that leaves very little healthy part remaining. Teeth that have had root canal treatment often need this kind of protection especially when they have become weak. A tooth that is very worn down or has a crack might also need a cap.

Choosing the Right Dental Cap

The type of material is important because the back teeth have jobs than the front teeth. Your molars do a lot of chewing while front teeth are more seen when you smile.

Common Types of Dental Crowns

Porcelain and ceramic crowns are often used for teeth because they look very similar to natural teeth. Zirconia crowns are strong. Look nice making them a common choice for both front and back teeth. Metal crowns are strong though some people do not like the way they look.

Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are another choice combining a metal base with a tooth-colored outside. Your best choice depends on where the tooth’s how much pressure it takes when you chew.

What Happens During Dental Cap Treatment?

Putting on a crown usually takes one or two visits depending on the place and the type of crown being made.

At the visit your dentist looks at the tooth and might take X-rays to check the roots and the bone around it. They will numb the area before shaping the tooth so the crown fits well. An impression or digital scan is then used to make the cap and a temporary crown protects the tooth while you wait.

At the visit the dentist checks the permanent crowns fit and color before putting it in place. You should be able to chew without feeling that one tooth hits first.

Caring for Your New Crown

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste focusing on the area around the cap.

• Floss every day gently. Food stuck next to a crown can be uncomfortable quickly.

• Avoid chewing ice or biting things because even a strong crown can break.

How Long Does a Dental Cap Last?

A crown that fits well can last about 5 to 15 years longer with good care. The time it lasts depends on the type of material. How you use your teeth. Grinding your teeth at night adds pressure on the crown so ask about a night guard if you wake up with a sore jaw.

Cost is also important. Prices change depending on the type of crown and the work needed for your tooth. Get an estimate before treatment including the cost of any extra steps.

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