Some of the most popular types of dental crowns are made of metal such as gold, nickel, chromium, or palladium. These crowns rarely break or chip, and they are strong enough to withstand all kinds of biting and chewing. Another type of crown is porcelain fused to metal, and this type of crown is generally matched to the color of your existing teeth. An all resin crown is usually less expensive than other types of crowns, but they will generally wear down somewhat more quickly, and are subject to breakage. An all ceramic or all porcelain dental crown will provide the best color match for your teeth, and you won't have to worry about any allergies to metals.

At your first visit to the dentist, the tooth to be crowned will be examined and prepared. Then that tooth will be filed down on the sides and on the top, so as to make room for the crown. Paste or putty will be used to make an impression of the tooth that's about to be crowned, and the impressions will be sent to a dental lab.

At the lab, the crowns will be produced and then sent back to the dentist's office, usually within two or three weeks. While you're waiting for the permanent crown, your dentist will install a temporary crown. Then when the permanent crown arrives, it will be fitted onto the target tooth, and any adjustments that are necessary will be made at that time. Then the crown will be cemented into place, and you will have a new crown for a long period of time.

Some people experience a small amount of discomfort or sensitivity when a crown is put in place. Crowns which are all porcelain might sometimes chip or crack. It's possible for your crown to become loose if the cement holding it in place somehow gets washed out. That would cause your crown to simply fall out, since there's nothing holding it in place. Some people are allergic to the metals used to make dental crowns, although this is extremely rare.

When caring for your temporary crown, you should observe good oral hygiene habits, and you should know what to do if the crown comes out. You can discuss this with your dentist at the time the temporary crown is installed. You should also make sure you show up for your next regularly scheduled appointment, so the dentist can check on the status of your temporary crown.

A tooth with a crown on it doesn't call for any special care, although the underlying tooth still must be protected against decay. That means you need to observe good dental hygiene which includes brushing and flossing, and occasionally rinsing your mouth out with a good mouthwash. You should also avoid biting on extremely hard foods like nuts or ice.

If you've been thinking of having a dental crown installed, call us today to schedule an appointment. We can discuss your objectives for having a crown installed, and determine whether you're a good candidate. We can provide you with expert dental service, and you can be totally confident in your new dental crown, when you work with us.

Don't let any further damage occur to your teeth - call us right away, so we can help restore your good oral health.