Dental Crowns FAQ
Get answers to common dental crown questions from Dr. Eugene Bernstein in Newark, NJ. Learn about crown lifespan, pain, what to do if your crown falls off, and more.
Understanding Dental Crowns
Q:
how does a dental crown work
A:
The process involves reducing the thickness of the tooth material. The dental lab then prepares a crown that looks and functions like the patient’s natural tooth.
Q:
when do you need a dental crown
A:
When an old filling deteriorates and starts to break apart, or if the tooth is broken. In many cases, after a root canal, a crown is needed.
Q:
can dental crowns cause cancer
A:
I’ve never encountered any research supporting this statement. Millions of people have crowns, and if there were any issues, we would already know from research.
The Procedure Experience
Q:
how long does a dental crown take to install
A:
For a single tooth preparation, we schedule a 45-minute appointment for one crown. If multiple crowns are needed, we adjust the time accordingly.
Q:
do dental crowns hurt when installed
A:
No, we do it under local anesthesia, so patients don’t feel anything. There might be very mild sensitivity for a few hours after the procedure.
Q:
how long do temporary dental crowns last
A:
Temporary crowns are designed to be a temporary solution, ideally kept for two to three months if necessary. Most of the time, we place the permanent restoration soon after.
How Long Crowns Last
Q:
how long do dental crowns last
A:
Dental crowns can last a very long time. Statistically, they last around seven to eight years, but in our practice, crowns last 15 to 20 years.
Q:
are dental crowns permanent
A:
Yes, dental crowns are meant to last a long time. They are cemented permanently and can last as long as the supporting tooth remains healthy. Statistically, they last six to eight years, but in our practice, they last 15 to 20 years.
Q:
do dental crowns need to be replaced
A:
Dental crowns need to be replaced if there’s an aesthetic issue or after 10 to 15 years if the patient wants to change them. Crowns may also need to be replaced if they chip or break.
Crown Care & Troubleshooting
Q:
what to do when a dental crown falls out
A:
Contact your dentist right away and keep the crown. It’s a rare occurrence, but it can happen.
Q:
why does my crown hurt
A:
Crowns are made from porcelain or a combination of metal and porcelain. If you feel pain, it might be because the tooth needs additional treatment like a root canal. This can happen after crown preparation if the tooth becomes sensitive.
Q:
how to whiten dental crowns
A:
You cannot whiten dental crowns. They are made from materials that retain their original color, so you can’t bleach them.
Living With Dental Crowns
Q:
can mri be done with dental crowns
A:
Absolutely.