Cosmetic Dental Crowns Explained for Beginners

What Does a Cosmetic Crown Actually Do?

Here’s the thing. A crown isn’t the same as a whitening treatment or a veneer. A veneer covers the front surface of a tooth. A crown covers the tooth fully which makes it a stronger choice when the tooth has already lost a fair amount of its structure.

The cosmetic part comes from how the crown’s made. Porcelain and ceramic crowns can be. Shaded to look remarkably close to natural teeth. A good crown shouldn’t scream “I had dental work done.” It should just get out of your way.

When a Crown Makes Sense

• A discolored tooth, especially one that doesn’t respond well to whitening can be a strong crown candidate.

• A cracked or heavily worn tooth needs protection than a surface-only cosmetic treatment usually provides.

One oddly shaped tooth can be reshaped with a crown though your dentist should first check that the tooth is healthy enough to support it.

What Happens During the Process?

Don’t picture a dentist pulling out your tooth and replacing it. Your natural tooth stays underneath. First the dentist prepares it by removing a layer from the outside. You get anesthesia so you shouldn’t feel the preparation itself.

Then comes the boring part. Your dentist takes an impression or digital scan of the tooth. A temporary crown may cover it while the permanent one is being made. At an appointment the dentist checks the fit and bite before bonding the final crown in place.

Does It Hurt?

Usually the procedure itself is comfortable because the area is numbed. Your tooth or gums can feel tender afterward particularly while the temporary crown is in place. That part tends to settle down.

If you have pain that doesn’t fade or your bite suddenly feels wrong tell your dentist. A crown shouldn’t feel like a stuck between your teeth.

How Long Does a Cosmetic Crown Last?

A made crown can last many years but it isn’t indestructible. Biting objects is a bad idea. Grinding your teeth at night can also put stress on it so a night guard may make sense if you grind.

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