Dental crowns are used to provide teeth that have become damaged or crooked with an aesthetic makeover. Using a strong adhesive, the crown, which is a specially designed cap shaped like your tooth, is attached to help to correct the deformity. In order to ensure that the crown blends in with the rest of your teeth, a colour match is made before a qualified specialist crafts the crown. Prior to any operation, you'll undergo a series of consultations with your dentist who will explain the process from start to finish and discuss how dental crowns are attached.
Preparing the Crown
Before your crown is attached, the dentist will inspect your mouth to establish how many you'll need and where they need to go, helping him or her to get an idea of what type of tooth needs treatment. Once identified, the tooth has the outer layer of enamel scraped away so that the crown sits in-line with the rest of the teeth and doesn't protrude. Then they will create a mould of your mouth to allow the dental technician to create the crown and identify areas of potential grinding in the mouth, which can cause damage to the crown and reduce its overall lifespan. It is the dental technician who will also colour match the material used for the crown.
Construction Materials and Cost
The lifespan and cost of each crown depends on whether it is made from ceramic or porcelain. Ceramic crowns are cheaper but have a reduced lifespan, whereas porcelain crowns are much more durable, lasting anywhere from 5 to 20 years in some cases. Within the price ranges of both types of crown you may be able to utilise various payment plans to help you to spread the cost of treatment and be entitled to multiple consultations and check-ups both before and after the operation.
Maintaining
Maintaining the lifespan of your crowns is easy enough. Just make sure you follow a strict oral hygiene routine and minimise the build up of plaque. This is a thin bacterial film that naturally grows in the mouth and can harden into tartar, causing the gum line to recede, which can ultimately loosen the crowns. As long as you brush daily and remove food debris with floss or mouthwash, you'll maintain the colour and hygiene of your gums and crowns. Make sure you consult with your dentist about any specific care concerns.
Share20 December 2016
As you age, it can become harder to take care of your teeth. Motor challenges can make it hard to floss, while memory issues may make it easy to overlook brushing. Whether you are a senior looking for solutions to some of the common dental problems or a senior with specific questions about cavities or oral surgery, you have come to the right place. In this blog, I am going to touch on a range of topics related to seniors and oral health. This is the type of resource I wish my mum would have had access to in her senior years, and I hope you enjoy having access to it during yours. I appreciate you reading my posts.
