Questions and Answers about Dental Crowns
Why don’t you use digital impressions?
Answer: When Dr. Oestervemb was teaching at the University of Iowa College of Dentistry, he had all the different digital impression system available to work with and he was not very impressed with how the crowns fit. Research has also shown crowns made using digital impressions in-office (same day crowns) do not fit as well as crowns made in a professional dental laboratory. Here is an article for reference: 3D and 2D marginal fit of pressed and CAD/CAM lithium disilicate crowns made from digital and conventional impressions
Same day crowns are a lot easier for the dentist but until the technology develops more we have decided to do what is best for our patients. We are constantly staying up to date and are awaiting development of new equipment and technology.
Question: What can I expect after a crown?
Answer: You will be numb for a few hours so drinking and eating can be difficult. While you are still numb, we recommend avoiding drinking anything hot and chewing as you might hurt yourself without realizing it. You can have minor tooth and gum sensitivity for a few weeks – this is a natural response from having work done though not everyone experiences it. We also apply a special desensitizer to minimize this. You can expect to treat your new crown like all of your other teeth.
Question: Can I get a cavity around a crown?
Answer: Yes, a cavity can still develop around a crown so it needs to be kept clean.
Question: How long can a crown last?
Answer: The durability of a crown generally depends on how well you take care of it. With good care, crowns can last 15+ years. The most common reason for crown failures are not the crown failing but your tooth failing because you get a cavity around the crown. Coming in for regular appointments and keeping the crown clean is the best way to keep your crown for as many years as possible.