Dental crowns might not be the reason you visited your dentist but hearing that one must be installed could confuse you. If you never expected such a procedure, questions are normal. Consider discussing these crown-related issues with your dental professional, so you're better informed.
1. Differentiating Between Craze Lines and Cracks
Many adults has so-called "craze" or stress lines on their molars. These are usually horizontal and come from the regular stress of chewing down over time. If you've noticed such lines before and think that's the reason for a dental crown, you're likely mistaken. Sometimes craze lines turn into cracks, so they do need to be monitored.
If you're about to sit for a crown installation, it's more likely a vertical crack of some kind was found. An inter-oral picture or x-ray should reveal this.
2. Asking About Waiting
Waiting is preferable many times, if only because you're not looking forward to pain or recovery. However, the longer cracks have to deepen, the more dangerous they are. If they spread down below your gum line, it could be time to think about a root canal instead. Sometimes a crown is related to an old, large filling which needs to be covered. If so, waiting could encourage further decay and pain from any exposed nerves.
3. Selecting the Type
A few crown options exist. Porcelain materials are generally only for front incisors, and ceramic crowns are durable enough for other teeth. A more affordable choice, metal covered with porcelain, or PFM, is available, but care must be taken; the thin porcelain could wear down quickly.
4. Knowing About Aftercare
Fixing cracks or large fillings with crowns can be appropriate for the dental condition you've currently got. However, once the crown is placed, ongoing care and knowledge of how to best treat it is important. For example, you may find you're directed to steer clear of corncobs, hard candy and other things which are tough to bite and chew on. Those suggestions are usually given so you never dislodge the crown, something which could hurt and require dental repair.
Another thing you should expect is that the tooth worked on -- and those surrounding it -- could become more sensitive. Drinking hot coffee or enjoying ice cold water could feel odd or even painful in that area. After some weeks you should feel "normal' again, but if you're too uncomfortable, your dentist is likely to send you for some sensitive teeth toothpaste or mouthwashes.
Your crown could be both necessary and cosmetically beneficial. Being aware of dental issues surrounding the process is smart; discussions with your personal dentist will illuminate your understanding of this procedure even further. For more information, contact a dental office like Demianko Dental Care.
Share
