Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are a prosthetic restoration of decayed teeth with a tooth-shaped ‘cap’ which covers the tooth or dental implant completely. It is bonded to teeth with dental cement. A crown or cap encases fully the entire portion of a damaged tooth which is visible. It anatomically restores the shape, strength and size of the tooth as well as the appearance. Dental crowns may be made of metal alloys, metal, porcelain and metal combination, resin or completely ceramic.
Why it is needed
- To replace large fillings when there is very little tooth structure left
- To protect breakage of weak teeth
- To restore a tooth which has been severely worn out or fractured due to erosion or attrition
- To cover tooth discoloration or uneven shape of the tooth and dental implants
- To attach a dental bridge
Advantages
- Dental crowns do not need hospitalization and dental tourist can go back after 3 weeks, or else they can plan 2 trips
- Dental crown improves appearance, the strength of damaged tooth
- Eliminates pain and protects the tooth
Disadvantages
- Sensitivity to extremely cold and hot foods and beverages
- Chip formation if the procedure is not perfect
- Loosening of the crown can cause tooth decay
- Crown can fall off due to less cement or improper fit
- Dark line formation on the crowned tooth near the gums
Risks and Complications
- Reaction to medication or aesthetic
- Nerve and tissue and structural damage near the implant
- Bleeding
- Numbness or tingling of teeth, lips, chin, gums
- Sinus problems
- Improper procedure can damage opposing tooth
Pre-operative preparation
- Visit the dentist to know about types of crowns and procedure
- Inform the dentist about any allergies or habits like smoking and alcohol intake
- X-Ray of a tooth to check the roots and bone
- Know which medicines have to be stopped or taken before the procedure
- Wear comfortable clothes
- Arrange caregivers post-procedure
Post-operative care
- The patient may be uncomfortable for 1-2 days with pain and swelling and feel strange about the crown. This disappears in 2-3 days post-procedure
- Good oral hygiene is important
Do’s, Don’ts and Precautions
- Brush and floss regularly, especially near the crown, using interdental brushes, etc
- No biting fingernails and opening cans and tins etc, as it can damage the finish and luster
- Avoid grinding and clenching of teeth