Dental Crown Procedure
If you have a tooth that has been severely damaged or is suffering from significant decay, you will need to have the tooth repaired. While some forms of damaged require less severe repair options like dental fillings, dental bonding or dental veneers, other forms of damage require more advanced repair options. When damage or decay has affected a significant portion of the crown of a tooth, the best option for repair will likely be the placement of a dental crown.
Dental crowns are prosthetics that replace damaged crowns. Depending on the materials used to fabricate the crown, a dental crown can both appear similar to a natural tooth, and can provide a similar level of support.
Dental Crown Materials
Once your dentist has looked at your damaged tooth and has decided that the best course of action is the placement of a dental crown, they will discuss different options for the materials used to replace your natural crown. These materials may include: ceramic, porcelain-fused to metal, metal alloy or gold alloy. Which option you decide to go with will depend on your individual needs, your budget and your preferences.
Temporary Crowns
Often times the actual crown prosthetic will take time to fabricate. Because of this, you may be provided with a temporary crown. It’s important to keep in mind that temporary crowns aren’t as secure as permanent crowns. Because of this, a patient will need to take extra special care when they eat. It’s also best to stay away from sticky foods, as they may pull the temporary crown off.
Dental Crown Procedure
The procedure for the placement of a dental crown either starts with an appointment scheduled for the soonest available date, or a trip to the emergency dentist. If you have a tooth that is causing you severe pain or is very damaged, you may need to contact an emergency dentist for an appointment (which will generally be within a 24 hour period).
Once your dentist has decided to place a dental crown, as mentioned earlier, the materials for the replacement prosthetic will be chosen. Your dentist will then reshape your tooth to better fit the dental crown. They will then make an impression of the tooth that will be sent away so the dental crown can be fabricated. This process may take weeks, so your dentist may decide to provide you with a temporary crown in the meantime. Once the prosthetic is fabricated, it will be sent back to the dentist for placement. Your dentist will check to make sure the crown fits properly and matches the surrounding teeth (if ceramic or porcelain-fused to metal materials are used). Once they are happy with the fit and appearance, they will secure the crown with a dental cement.
Speak with Your Dentist
If you have a damaged or decayed tooth, set an appointment to speak with your dentist about treatment options. If they decide to place a dental crown, feel free to ask any questions about the process of having a crown placed.
Contact your Wake Dental Care today to have your damaged or decayed tooth repaired with a dental crown.
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