Whether you have a cracked, chipped, or severely decayed tooth, dental crowns are a common restoration option for preserving and restoring damaged or weakened teeth. 

Think of a dental crown as a royal repair to improve your smile. In this blog, we’ll cover what you need to know about this helpful solution. 

Depending on your personal preferences and unique oral health needs, your dentist will advise you on which material, or combination of materials work best for you.

What Is a Dental Crown? 

Dental crowns are permanent coverings that fit over an original tooth that is either decayed, damaged, or cracked. Moreover, crowns can cover dental implants and root canal-treated teeth. They are made from various materials, including porcelain, gold, and acrylic resin, increasing strength and enhancing the tooth’s performance. 

These are the most common crowns. 

• Metal crowns are highly durable and require minimal enamel removal. Whether made from gold, palladium, nickel, or chromium, these options provide a strong bond to the tooth. The drawback of all metal crowns is the unnatural aesthetic appearance. However, they are a solid choice for out-of-sight molars (the teeth at the back of your mouth) and individuals who habitually grind their teeth or clench their jaws.
• Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns blend the durability of metal with the natural look of porcelain. They are a superior choice for front or back teeth. While they last as long as metal crowns, they have disadvantages. For example, the porcelain coating may chip over time, exposing the metal underneath. Additionally, they may gradually wear down the enamel on the teeth that touch your crown when you close your mouth. 
• All ceramic crowns are less likely to break due to the compression strength of modern ceramic materials compared to porcelain. Another advantage is that these crowns are “monolithic,” meaning it’s made from one material. Ceramic crowns avoid irritation to the gums which can sometimes be seen in PFM crowns. Furthermore, these are a good option if you have metal allergies.

Depending on your personal preferences and unique oral health needs, your dentist will advise you on which material, or combination of materials work best for you. 

Permanent crowns typically take two to three weeks to produce.

What Happens During a Dental Crown Procedure? 

Generally, it’s a two-visit process to preserve your tooth’s health and beauty. Here is what to expect. 

During your first visit, your dentist will: 

• Prepare your tooth. Your dentist will remove some of the natural enamel, making space for the crown and ensuring it stays in place once bonded. The main goal is to create a strong foundation for the crown. 
• Dental impressions. Second, your dentist will take impressions of your teeth with a putty-like material or digital impressions with a handheld scanner to create your custom crown. 
• Temporary crown placement. Permanent crowns typically take two to three weeks to produce. During this time, your dentist will place a temporary crown made from resin or acrylic.

During your second visit, your dentist will: 

• Remove your temporary crown. Before removing the temporary crown,  your dentist will evaluate the new crown’s shape, color, and fit.  
• Place the permanent crown. Your dentist will bond the new crown to your tooth using dental cement. 

Before you leave your appointment, your dentist will have you bite down, often on cotton gauze or a non-woven sponge, to ensure the cement sets. Then they will remove any excess cement around the tooth.

Every tooth is unique, so it is possible to experience no discomfort with a new crown.

What Can I Expect After a Dental Crown Placement? 

You can expect a few minor unpleasantries after the procedures, but once they’re over, you’ll agree it was all worth it. However, every tooth is unique, so it is possible to experience no discomfort with a new crown. 

Here are three common symptoms after the procedure: 

• Sore and swollen gums 
• Tooth sensitivity
• Gum inflammation

Fortunately, these side effects are normal and subside within a few days. In the meantime, we recommend over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to ease discomfort. 

Royally Superior Dental Services

At Asheville Dental, we strive to be the most comprehensive cosmetic dentists in Western North Carolina. We encourage you to schedule your appointment today! 

Seeing you with a happy confident smile is a priority for our entire team.