Want to Know More About Crowns? We Have Answers!

A dental crown can protect your teeth from cracks and damage, while improving the beauty and uniformity of your smile. There are many reasons that dental patients end up with crowns. If your dentist has told you that you will need dental crowns in Jacksonville, FL, you may have questions about what dental crowns are, how they work, what they look like and more. Here’s what you need to know about dental crowns.

What are crowns?

A crown is a cap that’s placed over the tooth to protect it from damage. Often, crowns are made from tooth-colored material and look just like natural teeth. However, some crowns are made from metal and do not resemble natural teeth.

How are crowns installed?

To install a crown, your dentist must shave down a thin layer of tooth enamel to make space for the crown. Once this is done, the crown is cemented over the top of the tooth.

When are crowns used?

Crowns are installed over teeth that have been given a root canal, to protect the remaining enamel. A crown can also be installed over a tooth that has a crack, chip or other damage. Crowns can also be installed over teeth that have cosmetic damage, because crowns can hide discolorations and other non-structural tooth anomalies. Finally, if you have a dental implant, a crown will be installed on the dental implant to take the place of a natural tooth.

How long do crowns last?

Crowns can last anywhere from 5 years to 30 years, depending on how well the crown is maintained and what it’s made from. Dental crowns made of porcelain may last anywhere from 5 years to 15, and metal crowns can last for decades.

What are crowns made of?

Dental crowns can be made from many materials, including porcelain or metal. Your dentist in Jacksonville, FL can help you decide which type of crown is right for your teeth, based on your budget and other considerations. If you need a dental crown, call Mandarin Dentistry to make an appointment.