Dental crowns are commonly used in dentistry. They can protect teeth that have become fragile due to decay or certain dental procedures. Dental crowns provide patients with an alternative to tooth extraction. Dental crowns are usually installed over a series of dental appointments. Here are some things patients should know about dental crown placement.

1. Dental crowns are made to fit your teeth.

Dental crowns must be custom-made for safety and comfort. Before any other dental work is performed, your dentist will take a mold of your teeth. This mold will allow lab technicians to craft a dental crown that will fit perfectly in your mouth, allowing you to bite and chew comfortably. It can take a week or longer for dental crowns to be made. Some dental crowns are made from solid porcelain, while others are made from a mix of porcelain and metal.

2. Your dentist will complete the necessary restorative work before installing your dental crown.

In many cases, patients get dental crowns installed while having restorative work performed. People with large cavities are sometimes given dental crowns to protect their teeth, but the cavity must be treated first. People who undergo root canal therapy will also need a crown to protect the treated tooth. Before your dental crown can be put in place, your dentist will remove decay from your teeth. Teeth that require a root canal will be filled with a rubber-like material to preserve their structural integrity.

3. You may be given a temporary crown to protect your teeth.

Your dental crown may not be finished by the time you have your restorative work done. If your crown isn't ready, your dentist will place a temporary crown over your teeth. A temporary crown will protect your teeth until the permanent crown can be put in place. You should treat your temporary crown gently since it can become dislodged if you eat gum or other sticky foods. Most people have their final crown installed within a week or two of receiving their temporary crown.

4. Dental crowns are strong but may be susceptible to breaking in some situations.

Dental crowns are made to withstand daily wear and tear. However, they can still crack if you bite down on a bone or another hard food. Be careful with your dental crown to avoid damaging it. Dental crowns can last for many years when cared for appropriately.

For more information about dental crowns, talk to your dentist.