Dental Crowns: Pros and Cons
What is a dental crown?
Dental crowns are an effective and versatile treatment option used to address a variety of dental issues. They are used to cap a tooth with a large filling or that has had root canal therapy, or for cosmetic purposes. They can also be used to attach to dental implants to replace missing teeth, as the implants provide extra support in the jawbone. Dental crowns also provide additional support for dental bridges, and when cared for properly, can be just as healthy and strong as natural teeth. While there are many benefits to getting a dental crown, it is important to consider the pros and cons before making a decision.
Pros of Dental Crowns
- Durability: Dental crowns are extremely durable and are designed to last for many years. They are made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, ceramic, and metal alloys, so they can be customized to match the color and shape of your existing teeth.
- Improved Appearance: Dental crowns can be used to improve the appearance of your smile. Crowns can be used to cover up discolored or misshapen teeth and can even be used to make your teeth appear straighter or more uniform in shape.
- Increased Strength: Dental crowns can be used to reinforce a tooth that has been weakened due to decay or trauma. The crowns act as an extra barrier to protect the tooth and prevent further damage.
Cons of Dental Crowns
- Cost: Dental crowns can be expensive and may not be covered by insurance. Depending on the type of crown you choose, the cost can range from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.
- Time: Getting a dental crown can be a lengthy process. It usually requires two or more visits to the dentist and can take up to two hours per visit. However, some dental offices are able to provide same-day crowns.
- Sensitivity: After getting a dental crown, some people may experience sensitivity in the area where the crown was placed. This sensitivity can last for a few days or even weeks and can be uncomfortable.
Dental crowns can be a great option for restoring and strengthening damaged teeth, as well as improving their appearance. However, they can be costly and involve a significant time commitment, and some people may experience sensitivity following the procedure. Before making a decision, it is essential to take into account all the pros and cons of getting a dental crown in order to determine if it is the right choice for you.
What Can I Eat After A Tooth Extraction?
Tooth extractions can be painful, and it’s important to realize how to care for your extraction site afterwards to promote healing. Knowing what to eat and what not to eat is a good place to start.
Like any kind of dental procedure, you should stick to soft foods and liquids so as not to irritate the extraction site. Soft foods that are easy to consume should be eaten for the first 24 hours after your procedure. After 24 hours, you can ease into more of a normal diet, when you feel comfortable doing so.
It’s important to try to stick with easy-to-chew foods for the first few days. Some examples include:
- Yogurt
- Pudding
- Jell-O
- Ice cream
- Applesauce
After the first day, you can try a wider variety of foods:
- Mashed potatoes
- Mashed sweet potatoes
- Scrambled eggs
- Oatmeal
- Pancakes
- Broth-based soups
What Not To Eat
After having a tooth extracted, your body will need time to heal. You should avoid consuming alcoholic beverages for at least 24 hours following the surgery. If you are taking any powerful pain medications, you should avoid consuming alcohol until you are no longer on the medications.
For about a week, it is advised to avoid eating hard, chewy, crunchy or brittle foods. These could include chips, nuts and popcorn.
How To Eat
How you eat your food is equally as important as the types of foods you consume after an extraction. You should try to only chew on the opposite side of your mouth from the treated area. Since you’ll likely be consuming more liquids than solids following the procedure, it might be tempting to use a drinking straw. This is not advisable because the suction of the straw could dislodge the blood clot and lengthen your total healing time.
Having a tooth extracted is a common procedure that many people will go through in their lifetime. Knowing how to care for your extraction site can speed up the recovery process. If you have any questions about tooth extractions, please contact any of our offices.
Professional Teeth Whitening vs At-Home Whitening
A bright, white smile is often associated with youth, health, and beauty. Teeth can become discolored for a variety of reasons, including aging, smoking, drinking coffee or tea, and certain medications. Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic procedure that can help to restore the natural brightness of teeth. However, there are different ways to achieve this, including teeth whitening at a dentist’s office and teeth whitening at home. We will discuss the pros and cons of each method below.
Professional Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening at The Dentist of Siouxland is a popular option for those who want quick and long-lasting results. The process involves applying a bleaching agent directly to the teeth, which is then activated with a special light. The entire procedure can be completed in one session, lasting around an hour.
Pros:
Professional expertise: When you choose to have your teeth whitened at a dental office, you can rest assured that you are in the hands of a trained professional. Our dentists have the expertise and experience to assess the condition of your teeth and choose the right treatment for you.
Stronger bleaching agents: Here at The Dentist of Siouxland we use stronger bleaching agents than those available over the counter. This means that the results are more dramatic and longer-lasting.
Safety: Teeth whitening at our dental office is a safe procedure, as we take precautions to protect your gums and other sensitive areas of your mouth.
Cons:
Cost: Teeth whitening at a dental office is more expensive than teeth whitening at home. The cost can vary depending on the office, but on average, it can range from $500 to $1,000 per session.
Time: Teeth whitening at a dental office requires an appointment, which can take up to an hour. This can be inconvenient for those with a busy schedule.
Teeth Whitening at Home
Teeth whitening at home is a more affordable and convenient option for those who want to brighten their smile. The process involves using a whitening agent, which is applied to the teeth using trays or strips.
Pros:
Cost: Teeth whitening at home is more affordable than teeth whitening at a dental office. The cost can range from $20 to $200, depending on the product.
Convenience: Teeth whitening at home is convenient as it can be done in the comfort of your own home. It also allows you to fit the treatment around your schedule.
Cons:
Effectiveness: Teeth whitening at home is not as effective as teeth whitening at a dental office. The bleaching agents used at home are not as strong, and the results may not last as long.
Safety: Teething whitening at home can be risky if the instructions are not followed correctly. Overuse or misuse of the product can damage the enamel of the teeth and cause sensitivity or discomfort.
Overall, both teeth whitening at a dental office and teeth whitening at home have their pros and cons. Teeth whitening at a dentist’s office provides quick and long-lasting results, but is it more expensive and time-consuming. Teeth whitening at home is more affordable and convenient, but the results may not be as effective, and there is a risk of damage if the product is not used correctly. Contact The Dentist of Siouxland to learn more about our teeth whitening process.
