Dental crowns are used to treat various dental conditions. Large decay or a large filling in the tooth will need a dental crown to prevent further damage to the tooth. A tooth with severe cracks on its surface will require a crown to protect the tooth, and hold it together. Crowns are also used when the tooth is severely broken, and cannot hold composite fillings. Dental crowns are adjunct to root canal therapy offering protection to the nerve roots. Crowns and caps are also applied for aesthetic purposes. Most indications for a dental crown are properly and carefully assessed by a skilled and trained dentist.
The Process
The process of getting a dental crown usually entails two appointments with the dentist. Several molds of the tooth will be taken during the first appointment. These tooth patterns will be used to create a dental crown. Dentists would usually make a temporary crown on the first appointment from the mold that was taken. The tooth molds are then submitted to a dental laboratory where it will be processed to a more stable and permanent crown. During this time, your dentist will inquire about the type of dental crown that you’d like to have.
You’ll need a temporary crown to sustain and shelter your tooth while the permanent crown is being fabricated. While waiting for the temporary crown to be fabricated, a local anesthesia is being applied over the affected area. The placement of the temporary crown on the affected tooth surface could be completed after several minutes. Once the temporary crown is attached the dentist will evaluate the accuracy of the patient’s bite to make further adjustments with the crown. The temporary crown is fitted based on the patient’s comfort.
The second appointment with your dentist is scheduled when the permanent dental crown is available. Local anesthetics are applied over the affected area for the patient’s convenience. The temporary crown is carefully detached from the tooth. The tooth surface will be thoroughly cleaned and prepared. The permanent dental crown will be carefully placed using permanent cement. The placement and spacing of the dental crown is accurately checked. The dentist will also check if the patient is able to bite properly. The crown is then adjusted based on the patient’s comfort. The patient will be provided with home instructions on how to care for the dental crown. Regular dental checkups are also advised.
Talk to your dentist today about dental crowns!
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