Dental treatments and procedures may seem worrying, especially if you haven't had them before. But treatments like getting dental crowns are a common procedure that most adults go through at some point in their life with their dentists. Dental crowns are even more common now since one in five adults in America has not seen a dentist recently according to Modern Dental. If you are getting a dental crown, here is everything you need to know about them.

What Is a Dental Crown?

There are so many different types of dental procedures, it can be tough to remember what they all are. In case you've never heard of a dental crown, or can't remember what it is, let's go over it. Dentists will use a dental crown to hide large spaces in your mouth that are too big for regular filings. They can also be used to hide unsightly features like teeth that are oddly shaped, stained, damaged, broken, or discolored.

What Are the Different Types of Dental Crowns?

When it comes to dental crowns, acrylic is the most common material used, but there are other options as well that vary in quality and durability.

Porcelain crowns have the biggest benefit of resembling your natural teeth. Since there are made of porcelain which is weak, they are fused with metal alloys to make them more durable.

Ceramic crowns provide a natural feeling, but they are not as durable as porcelain. They are however lighter than porcelain crowns because they are not fused with metal.

Metal alloy crowns and gold alloy crowns are extremely durable, making them a popular option. Since these crowns as not as natural as the ceramic, porcelain, or acrylic crowns, they are used for teeth towards the back of the mouth that are not seen when your smile or are talking.

How Long Does a Dental Crown Last?

According to Healthline, dental crowns can last ten to fifteen years, depending on how well you care for them. If you brush and floss regularly, you'll dental crown will last much longer than if you do not. How long a dental crown lasts can also depend on the type of material used and how it was inserted by a dentists office.

If you have more questions about dental crowns or an upcoming procedure, reach out to us at Borealis Dental Studio. We will be more than happy to answer all of your questions.