Getting a dental crown placed can be a treatment that many dental patients may require. As with many other dental issues and treatments, there is ample misinformation concerning these topics. When patients are going through the process of attempting to make decisions about their dental health, this misinformation can make it very hard to make productive choices.

Myth: A Dental Crown Is A Replacement Tooth

Many patients may think that their dental crown will be a complete tooth replacement. However, a crown is actually done in order to save the tooth. The crown is placed to reinforce and protect a weakened tooth. Without this type of protection, the tooth may experience a gradual deterioration before it completely shatters or falls out.

Myth: Dental Crowns Are Easily Stained

Staining is one of the more embarrassing dental problems a patient will experience. Not surprisingly, people will go to great lengths to avoid developing noticeable stains on their teeth. Patients may assume that due to the fact a crown is artificial that it will be more likely to develop stains. However, the opposite is true as dental crowns will lack the small pores and openings that can be found in natural tooth enamel. While dental crowns are not at a risk of developing permanent staining, they can become discolored due to plaque and tartar. Fortunately, regular cleanings will remove these substances, which should restore the crown to its original color.

Myth: Only Back Teeth Can Need Crowns

It is extremely common for patients to require dental crowns on their back teeth. This is often a result of the fact that individuals will typically be less effective in cleaning and caring for these teeth due to their position, which can make them more likely to suffer damage from cavities. However, it is also possible for individuals to have crowns applied to their front teeth. In fact, placing a crown on a front tooth is often less expensive and easier than getting one on the teeth in the back of the mouth due to the smaller size of these teeth and them being easier to reach.

Before you get a dental crown, you will want to have accurate information regarding this procedure. Knowing that a dental crown is not a replacement tooth, the material in the crown is highly resistant to staining and the fact that any tooth can have a crown applied to it will make it easier to make decisions that protect your smile and health.