A dental crown is a dental restoration that completely caps or encircles a tooth or dental implant. Crowns are often needed when a large cavity threatens the ongoing health of a tooth. They are sometimes used to attach bridges, cover implants, prevent a cracked tooth from worsening, or an existing filling is in danger of becoming loose or falling out. Waterford crowns can also be placed on top of an existing filling to improve the appearance of a tooth.
Crowns are made from many materials, but porcelain or ceramic crowns are the most popular type. Porcelain crowns can be matched to the color of your natural teeth and resist staining better than other types of crowns.
Most dental crowns are placed in a single office visit, and this is what happens at the dental office:
There is tooth preparation
This preparation usually takes place over one or two visits. During the first visit, your dentist will examine and x-ray the tooth and then numb the area around the tooth. Next, they will file down the top and sides of the tooth to make room for the crown.
Once the tooth is the right size and shape, your dentist will make an impression of it (or a dental scan may be taken). This impression or scan is sent to a dental lab, where your permanent crown will be made. A temporary crown will be placed over the prepared tooth until your next appointment. The temporary crown protects the tooth while the permanent crown is being made.
There is the placement of the permanent crown
The temporary crown will be removed at your next appointment, and your permanent crown will be checked for fit. If it fits well, then it will be cemented into place. If not, your dentist may need to adjust it or make a new one.
There is follow-up care for dental crowns
It is important to take good care of your teeth and gums after getting a dental crown. Brush twice a day and floss once a day to remove plaque from your teeth and gums. See your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. With proper care, your crown should last for many years.
Now that you know what happens at the dental office, these are why you might need dental crowns.
1. Large cavities
There is not enough tooth left to support a filling when you have large cavities. A crown will completely cover the remaining tooth and help restore its function and shape.
2. Cracked or fractured teeth
A dental crown can hold together parts of a cracked tooth and prevent it from breaking apart. It can also attach a bridge or replace a missing tooth.
3. Misshapen or heavily stained teeth
Dental crowns can improve the appearance of misshapen or heavily stained teeth. They can be made from porcelain or ceramic, which can be matched to the color of your natural teeth.
Implants
A dental implant is a metal post surgically placed in your jawbone. Once the implant has bonded to your jawbone, a crown can be attached. It will replace a missing tooth and look and feel like your natural teeth.
Call Dr. Taylor’s Family Dental Center and talk to your dentist if you think you might need a dental crown. They will be able to determine if a crown is the best option for you.
