Porcelain Dental Crowns: Common Questions Answered

What Is a Porcelain Dental Crown?

A porcelain dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that goes over a damaged or weak tooth. It fits over the tooth and helps restore its shape, strength and function. Because porcelain can be made to look much like natural teeth it is often chosen for front teeth where appearance matters most.

Once you get used to it the crown feels quite natural. Most people stop noticing it after some time which’s exactly what you want from any dental treatment.

Why Would I Need One?

A dentist might suggest a crown when a tooth has lost much of its structure to be fixed with a filling. This can happen after decay or a large crack. Crowns are also commonly used after root canal treatment to protect the remaining tooth.

If your tooth still has enough healthy structure a crown may not be needed. Your dentist should check how much of the tooth is left before deciding whether a crown is the choice.

Do Porcelain Crowns Look Like Real Teeth?

Yes they do. That’s one of their advantages. Modern porcelain crowns can be. Coloured to match your other teeth so well that they don’t stand out. They look like a part of your smile.

The shade is important. So is the shape. Your dentist will take into account the colour and style of your surrounding teeth when making the crown not just pick a white shade.

Do Porcelain Crowns Hurt?

You won’t feel pain during the preparation because the area is numbed.. After the procedure some sensitivity or soreness is normal for a short while as your mouth adjusts.

If the crown continues to hurt or feels high when you bite down that’s not okay. Don’t try to live with discomfort. You should go back to your dentist to have it checked and adjusted.

What Should I Ask My Dentist?

• How much healthy tooth remains? This helps determine if a crown is really necessary.

• Talk about the shade carefully especially if the tooth shows when you smile.

• Ask how the crown will feel when you bite. A small adjustment can make a difference in comfort.

• If you grind your teeth at night tell your dentist. That affects how the crown is made and protected.

Remember. Whiter doesn’t always mean better. A crown that matches your smile usually looks more realistic than one that’s much brighter and stands out too much.

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