Debunking Myths About Dental Crowns

Dental crowns ensure restorative dentistry devices that cover severely damaged or decayed teeth to prevent further damage and improve their appearance. Your Woodlands dentist can make them with porcelain, ceramic, or a combination of these materials. These devices are long-lasting and can last over a decade with good oral hygiene.

They look fake

Modern dental technology allows dentists to create personalized dental crowns that match the shape, size, and color of natural teeth, making it difficult to tell them apart. During your appointment, your provider will examine your teeth, take digital impressions of your mouth, and send them to the lab for crown customization. Your crown can be made of porcelain or zirconia, depending on your preferences.

They are only used for restorative dentistry

While it is true that crowns are a common and effective restorative treatment, they can also address aesthetic dental issues. For instance, you may benefit from this treatment if your misshapen, irregularly-sized, or severely discolored teeth affect your smile aesthetics. Additionally, you can place these crowns on your dental implants to eliminate the gaps in your smile, giving you a uniform, attractive smile.

Crowns last forever

This belief arises from the fact that restorations are made from durable, indestructible materials. However, like other restorations, they have a lifespan and will need replacement after several years. The durability of your prosthesis will depend on your provider’s skill, the type of material used, and your oral hygiene. If you adhere to routine dental visits and practice good oral hygiene, your crowns can last 10-15 years. However, teeth grinding and gum disease can interfere with the integrity of your crown, requiring replacement sooner than expected.

They’re painful to place

The belief that the procedure for placing crowns is painful can discourage you from trying this effective dental restoration. Modern technology has improved the placement procedure, making it painless and comfortable. During the procedure, you provide with numb the treatment area using a local anesthetic to prevent you from experiencing any discomfort. You may experience sensitivity or slight discomfort after the treatment, but it should resolve quickly. Additionally, your doctor can prescribe over-the-counter medications that can help resolve your discomfort within a few days. If you have mental anxiety, you can inform your provider during the consultation, as they can offer other sedation options to ensure you are comfortable.

They can stain easily

Dental crowns are made from stain-resistant materials like ceramic and porcelain. These materials mimic the appearance of your teeth but are more resistant to food or coffee stains. However, if you have poor oral hygiene, bacteria can build up around the crown and eventually cause discoloration. You can collaborate with your dentist to determine the most stain-resistant material, like composite resin, according to your preferences. You can also consider gold materials if you don’t mind the color. Overall, these restoration requires good hygiene and maintenance, but they are not susceptible to staining and can be a long-lasting solution to several dental issues.

Call the Scott Young DDS office or book an appointment online for more information about dental crowns.