A crown is like a protective cap that goes over the base of a tooth that might have otherwise been lost to excessive decay, disease, or infection.
A broken tooth is saved by treating with a crown. And with the newer porcelain crowns available today, dental crowns appear as natural as biological teeth.
When a tooth requires a crown, our dentist will grind the tooth down and take an impression so the lab can fabricate a crown to properly fit over the tooth. A temporary is placed to protect the tooth as the crown usually takes about two weeks for completion.
When ready to be seated, our dentists will remove the temporary and try the new crown on to make sure it fits securely. Small adjustments can be made as needed.
When satisfied, the crown will be permanently cemented in place. While there may be some minor sensitivity for a time, this is very brief. If sensitivity continues, a return visit to the dentist may be needed.
In addition to a broken tooth, crowns are also used:
To repair a tooth with extensive dental decay – When additional fillings pose a problem, our dentist might recommend a crown.
To complete root canal therapy – When the root of the tooth has experienced trauma for any reason, endodontic therapy may be needed. This procedure requires an access point to be drilled into the tooth so the contents of the root canals can be extracted. The access point is often sealed with a dental crown.
To serve as an anchor for a fixed bridge – When lost teeth are to be restored with a permanent bridge, the teeth on either side of the missing teeth are prepped for dental crowns as a means to attach the bridge.
To complete a dental implant – The final restoration is designed to protect the implant.
Dental crowns are strong and allow biological teeth to be salvaged. Our dentists will provide instructions for flossing around your new crown. All other care is the same as what you provide your natural teeth.
For more information about dental crowns and treatment, call our office today!
