Top 5 Myths and Misconceptions About Dental Crowns
You’ve probably heard of dental crowns and know that they’re a trusted dental service. Even so, you might be unsure of the facts and the misconceptions about dental crowns.
In this blog post, our dental care teams in Montgomeryville, Bala Cynwyd, and Bensalem, PA, will dispel popular myths and misconceptions we hear in our office and set the record straight.
Myth #1: Dental Crowns Look Fake
Are you picturing small teeth or buck teeth? An unnaturally white and uniform appearance? While there may be poor representations of crowns out there, modern materials and techniques have improved their appearance dramatically. In fact, you likely are close with someone who has a crown and you don’t even know it.
First of all, we only use lifelike materials like zirconia. We also take a completely customized approach at our offices serving the Philadelphia area to ensure your results not only look natural but complement and elevate your entire look.
Myth #2: You Don’t Need to Worry About Cavities With Dental Crowns
While porcelain crowns themselves cannot develop the decay that affects enamel, it doesn’t mean that the tooth underneath is impervious to damage. A tight seal will be made around the base of the tooth, but you should continue to floss at least once a day and brush daily to protect your oral health. In addition, you can still develop gum disease with dental crowns.
To head off another related question, we’ll still recommend that you visit us twice a year for cleanings and exams. During each visit, we can clean your smile and also check on the integrity of your restorations. Which brings us to our next point…
Myth #3: Dental Crowns Last Forever
Crowns do have an impressive lifespan but eventually, they need to be replaced. With proper care, you can expect your dental crown to last 15 years or more. To extend its lifespan:
- Avoid using your crowned (and natural!) teeth like tools to open beer bottles, tear open packages, etc.
- As we mentioned above, continue to practice good oral hygiene at home
- And make sure to schedule regular visits to our office for cleanings and exams
Myth #4: It’s Painful to Get a Dental Crown
The truth is, dental crowns are often part of a treatment plan that reduces any discomfort you’re experiencing. That’s because crowns are used in root canal therapy and to protect teeth with large areas of decay.
Before dental crown placement, we’ll carefully numb the entire treatment site with a local anesthetic. We also offer dental sedation for patients who are still feeling a bit anxious. Though you might experience some sensitivity in the following days, it should quickly dissipate.
Myth #5: Dental Crowns Are Expensive
Crowns are not cheap, but in many cases, they’re covered by insurance so you’ll likely only pay a small amount out of pocket. Keep in mind that insurance coverage applies to crowns that are recommended for a medically necessary reason. That said, treating a chipped, fractured, or decayed tooth with a crown is a necessity and at the same time, it can greatly improve its appearance. For cosmetic crowns and our patients without insurance, we do accept financing to break up your total treatment cost.
Meet With Our Dental Care Team to Learn More
Don’t let myths and misconceptions about dental crowns keep you from experiencing your healthiest, most beautiful smile. We’re eager to help you get started. Message our office today to learn more.