4 Things to Know Before Getting a Tooth Cap
So you’ve had an accident and came out unscathed, or so you thought until you smiled in the mirror. Not only does it make you want to keep your mouth shut, but now it hurts to eat. There’s no avoiding it; you’re going to have to get a tooth cap.
Getting one of these caps will protect your tooth from further damage. But before you start imagining your last trip to the dentist (no, not the drill again), there are some important things you should know about dental crowns. Here are 4 key bits of knowledge you should take with you to your appointment.
1. The Lifespan of Your Dental Crown
It’s easy to expect a dental crown to last the span of your own life. After all, your other teeth will last that long. However, it’s likely that this crown will need replacing, and there are a few factors that can affect its lifespan.
In general, most dental crowns last 15 years. However, depending on certain conditions, the lifespan can vary. Habits like chewing on fingernails or grinding your teeth can cost you another trip to the dental clinic.
2. Different Types of Crowns
When you imagine dental crowns, you might see with your mind’s eye someone with a gold front tooth. While you might not be the one to sport this kind of tooth cap, there are many types of materials dentists use for their procedures.
If you’re considering a dental crown, your dentist will advise you on its material based on several factors, including:
- gum tissue placement
- location of the damaged tooth
- size of the original tooth remaining
- the color of other teeth
- the function of the tooth requiring the crown
Most common, your dentist will recommend a porcelain tooth cap. In many cases, it’s easiest to match the color to nearby teeth and will handle the workload it’s used for.
3. Dental Procedures for Getting a Cap
After the dentist takes an X-ray of the mouth, you’ll schedule a molding appointment. Your local cosmetic dentist will numb the tooth, take impressions for the mold, and prepare the damaged tooth for its new cap. After a final impression to confirm the accuracy, the dentist will fabricate and cement the crown into your mouth.
4. Proper Dental Care for a Tooth Cap
When properly molded and inserted, your new dental crown is ready to go. It is made to handle normal wear and tear and will only require regular hygiene for maintenance. This includes teeth cleaning and flossing, as well as scheduled dental check-ups.
Beyond this, there are additional actions you can take to extend the longevity of your dental cap. Among these include:
- Quitting tobacco use
- Avoiding hard food
- Wearing a night guard
More on Important Dental Procedures
Knowing these four aspects will prepare you for your tooth cap when you head to the dentist. While an unpleasant experience, you’ll feel certain that your dental crown is being handled by a professional.
To prepare you for other dental procedures, check out our Health section.
