Categories: Cosmetic Dentist

FAQs About Porcelain Crowns Used in Cosmetic Dentistry

If you have significant tooth decay or you are missing part of a tooth, porcelain crowns may be a good option to discuss with your dentist. These crowns are a cosmetic dentistry procedure used to restore the shape, function, and color of teeth, and they can serve practical purposes as well as aesthetic ones. This guide will answer some of the most common questions about the procedure.

Porcelain crowns FAQs

If you are considering porcelain crowns or you are comparing them to other dental procedures, you likely have several concerns and questions about their material, placement, and durability. These are some of the most frequently asked questions about porcelain crowns.

1. What is a porcelain crown?

Porcelain crowns are hollow false teeth that are custom-made to fit over an existing tooth after that tooth has been shaped and trimmed. Once in place, the crown covers the tooth like a cap. You will not be able to remove it yourself after it is placed.

2. What are porcelain crowns used for?

Porcelain crowns may be used in cosmetic dentistry to cover a tooth that is misshapen or discolored. They are placed over teeth that are weak or ones that have incurred a significant amount of decay. When crowns are used cosmetically, such as on teeth that are visible to others, they help teeth look normal again in terms of color and construction.

3. What is the recovery time for the procedure?

The procedure is non-surgical and does not result in serious pain or discomfort. The appointment should only last for about an hour to an hour and a half, but it could be lengthier depending on how many crowns you are getting. Most patients can return to their normal daily routine immediately after getting their crowns.

4. How long do porcelain crowns last?

The average lifespan of porcelain crowns is about 15 years. Some may last longer than 20 years. The material used in porcelain crowns has a similar strength and hardness as natural tooth enamel. If you have an older porcelain crown or you wish to have one replaced, your dentist will be able to advise you on your next steps.

5. Do porcelain crowns require special care?

Porcelain crowns require the same type of maintenance as natural teeth. Brushing twice per day and flossing once per day is recommended. Additionally, patients should see a dentist once every six months.

The temporary crown you receive while you wait for your permanent crown is not as durable as a permanent crown. Your dentist may recommend that you avoid sticky, hard, or chewy foods, shift your chewing to the other side of your mouth, and be careful when flossing while you have your temporary crown.

6. How long does it take to get porcelain crowns?

The procedure requires two visits. During the first visit, the dentist prepares the tooth, makes an impression, matches the color of the crown to the natural teeth, and places a temporary crown. The permanent crown is placed about two weeks later. Your crown placement appointment can be scheduled on any day that works for you as there is no downtime after you receive it.

7. What kinds of crowns are there?

In addition to porcelain, dental crowns can be made from metal, porcelain-fused-to-metal, resin, or ceramic. Metal crowns last a long time, but many patients do not prefer the aesthetics of the metal color. These crowns are sometimes used for molars that are not visible when a person smiles.

Porcelain-fused-to-metal looks the most like natural teeth; however, the metal under the porcelain can sometimes show through as a dark line. Resin crowns are less expensive than the other types but are more prone to breaking and may wear down faster.

Crowns made entirely from ceramic or porcelain are often used in cosmetic dentistry because they provide an accurate color match with natural teeth. However, these crowns may not be as strong as porcelain-fused-to-metal.

Conclusion

Because they completely cover the natural tooth and look similar to natural teeth, porcelain crowns are a popular cosmetic dentistry treatment for improving the appearance of stained, misshapen, or filled teeth. Once in place, they closely resemble natural teeth and you should be able to eat and speak normally with them for many years.

Whether you are interested in fixing one weak tooth or factoring in the use of crowns for your whole-mouth reconstruction, porcelain crowns can serve several purposes and last for decades. Your dentist will be able to determine which procedure is correct for your teeth.

Request an appointment here: https://www.mysaratogadentist.com or call My Saratoga Dentist PLLC at (518) 675-3094 for an appointment in our Saratoga Springs office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Cosmetic Dentist in Saratoga Springs, NY.

Recent Posts

Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments To Improve The Appearance Of Your Teeth

Many people seek a cosmetic dentist because they feel self-conscious and uncomfortable with their smile if their teeth are not as aesthetically pleasing as they might wish. The teeth frame the entire face, so a pearly white smile can make it seem radiant and full of energy.Cosmetic dentistry offers numerous solutions for patients who want…

What You Need To Know About Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry refers to dental procedures intended to enhance the appearance of your teeth. While most of these procedures are nonessential, they can offer a variety of health benefits as well. The field, once primarily reserved for celebrities and wealthy individuals, has become much more mainstream, offering a number of desirable and accessible procedures.The word…

Enhancing Your Smile With Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments

You can enhance your smile with cosmetic dentistry treatments. If you are considering one or more cosmetic dentistry procedures to improve your smile, read on to learn more.By learning more about cosmetic dentistry and the benefits treatment offers, you can decide if a treatment plan is right for you. The following are some things to…

How Can Cosmetic Dentistry Improve Stained Teeth?

Teeth can become stained due to habits such as smoking or drinking coffee or wine. The passage of time also takes its toll. Cosmetic dentistry offers a number of solutions that can help return your teeth to a more attractive shade of white.The benefits of a healthy smile are well known, but many people fail…

Dr. Ryan Osinski

Share
Published by
Dr. Ryan Osinski

Recent Posts

A General Dentist Explains the Process of Getting Dental Implants

You can do research on dental implants on your own, but getting the facts from…

2 days ago

Top Reasons To Consider Dental Implants

Dental implants are considered a leading teeth replacement option by both patients and dentists, and…

6 days ago

7 Things to Know About Dental Implants

Dental implants are available to provide permanent restoration to missing teeth. Though a favorite among…

2 weeks ago

What to Do When You Have a Broken Tooth: Expert Dental Advice

If you have a broken tooth, seeking treatment soon is vital to ensure the long-term…

2 weeks ago

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants are stable structures that can replace missing teeth. They consist of durable, biocompatible…

2 weeks ago

Dental Implants vs. Other Tooth Replacement Options

Dental implants are a popular tooth replacement option among dental professionals. They offer an array…

3 weeks ago