Should You Get Dental Crowns? The 5-Step Process of Getting a Crown

Dental crowns are a popular treatment option for restoring the shape and function of teeth. Dental crowns continue to attract significant attention from customers, so this article will answer the question of what dental crowns are and how the procedure for getting dental crowns works.

I. Understanding Dental Crown Procedures

1. What is a Dental Crown?

Dental crowns are a restorative method used to repair tooth damage at various levels. During the crowning procedure, the dentist will reshape the damaged natural tooth into a tooth stump. The crowns are then designed and fabricated to precisely fit the patient’s dental impression. The porcelain crown is permanently fixed onto the prepared tooth stump using specialized dental adhesives.

2. When Should You Get a Dental Crown?

Dental crowns are commonly used for teeth that are worn down, chipped, or have significant damage. Specifically:

• Chipped teeth: Crowns are often used when fillings in areas that experience high pressure fail to hold, making the crown an ideal choice to restore and protect the tooth's function.
• Teeth that have undergone root canal treatment: These teeth typically lose a lot of tooth structure, making a crown necessary for protection.
• Teeth with abnormal shapes or colors: Crowns can restore the aesthetics and functionality of teeth that are misshapen or discolored.

Advantages of Dental Crowns?

• Natural Aesthetics: Dental crowns offer a natural appearance, enhancing your smile and confidence.
• Stain Resistance: Porcelain crowns do not stain and retain their color over time.
• Strength: The porcelain coating is strong and capable of withstanding chewing forces, ensuring your dental function is preserved.
• High Accuracy: Using computer-aided design (CAD), dental crowns can be crafted with high precision, ensuring correct shape and size.

4. Popular Types of Dental Crowns Today

• Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns: Among the most affordable options, metal crowns are easier to fabricate but offer lower aesthetics compared to all-porcelain crowns.
• All-porcelain crowns: These crowns have better aesthetics than metal crowns but are usually more expensive. The fabrication process and placement require higher precision to adjust the color and shape correctly.

Each type of dental crown has its own advantages and disadvantages. The choice of crown depends on various factors such as aesthetic goals, cost, and personal preferences.

Each type of dental crown will suit the needs and condition of each individual’s teeth.

II. What is the Procedure for Getting Dental Crowns?

Here is the procedure for getting dental crowns that you can refer to:

1. Initial Examination

The first step in the dental crown procedure is a comprehensive examination. The dentist will assess the overall condition of your teeth to determine the extent of damage and check for any gum health issues. If any issues are detected, the dentist will perform the necessary treatments before starting the dental crown procedure.

2. Tooth Preparation

After assessing your teeth, the dentist will grind the tooth down to create space for the crown. This step is done carefully to minimize the loss of healthy tooth material and to avoid affecting the dental pulp.

3. Dental Impressions and Crown Design

After preparing the tooth, the dentist will take an impression of the tooth. This impression is sent to a laboratory where the dental crown will be designed. During this time, you may be given a temporary crown to maintain aesthetics and function. Afterward, you will be scheduled to return for the permanent crown placement.

4. Placing the Dental Crown

Once the crown is made, it will be sent back from the laboratory, and the dentist will place it on your tooth. The dentist will check for color match, shape, and fit with the neighboring teeth and opposite arch. Any minor adjustments can be made directly in the dental office. If more significant adjustments are needed, the crown will be sent back to the lab for revisions.

5. Follow-up Appointment

Patients will typically return for a follow-up visit a week after the crown is placed. During this appointment, the dentist will recheck the bite, remove any excess bonding material, and ensure the patient is able to chew comfortably. Regular check-ups are usually scheduled every six months, where the dentist not only checks the quality of the dental crown but also the overall health of the teeth and gums. This helps detect and address any issues with the crown early on, maintaining its longevity and functionality.

With over 23 years of experience in the field of Odonto-Stomatology, Herident Dental Clinic, under the guidance of experienced professors and specialists, has successfully performed numerous dental crown procedures, ensuring both the health and aesthetics of your teeth.

Please contact our hotline or visit Herident Dental Clinic to get a consultation, examination, and experience the leading dental services in Vietnam!