Do you have a broken or weak tooth? It could be that you are in need of a dental crown.
A dental crown is often recommended by a dentist as a way to restore a tooth’s shape and size. A crown can also help improve the appearance of the tooth. There are usually three reasons why your dentist would recommend a dental crown:
- When your tooth has a very large feeling that exceeds the natural tooth structure
- If your tooth has already had a root canal for root canal therapy
- Cosmetic reasons
There are several types of dental crowns that can be used to help restore a tooth. Some of the more popular crowns are made from stainless steel, metal, porcelain fused to metal, ceramic, or resin. The type of crown that is used largely depends on the dentist’s recommendation and the patient’s preference.
First Visit
Typically, there are two visits required in order to prepare and place a dental crown. During the first visit, a dentist will most likely take x-rays to check the roots of the tooth and the surrounding bone. The dentist will be looking for any decay or other trouble that could lead to infection or injury. Next, the tooth that will receive the crown is prepared. This includes filing it down to ensure there is enough room for the new crown.Your dentist will use paste or putty to make an impression of the tooth to make sure that it fits well with the other teeth in your mouth. It is important that the crown does not interfere with your bite. If your dentist is using a porcelain crown, he or she will also select the shade that matches the color of the your existing teeth.
Once this is done, the impressions and all other relative information are sent to a dental lab where the crown will be designed and manufactured. This typically takes up to 2 to 3 weeks at which time the crown will be returned to the dentist office. During this time the patient will wear a temporary crown made by the dentist.
Second Visit
Your second visit will consist of the dentist removing the temporary crown, checking the fit and color of the permanent crown, and then securely installing the crown. The dentist will start by numbing the tooth and the surrounding area with local anesthetic and then proceed to cement the new crown in its permanent place. There will also be some testing to ensure that the new crown does not interfere with your bite.
Your dentist will most likely want to continue to check up with you over the next few months to ensure that the crown is staying in place and working properly.
Related: Tips For Reducing Tooth Sensitivity
I have worked with many patients over the years at Smile Concepts in providing crowns for broken or weak teeth. A crown can make such a huge difference in the everyday life of a patient who has suffered for too long with a broken tooth. There is no reason to have to deal with the annoyance or discomfort of a bad tooth. Schedule an appointment to visit with me about a crown for your tooth by calling 480 951 2800.
