A dental crown is one of the best restorative treatments when it comes to repairing cracked or fractured teeth. It fits over a fractured tooth to hold it together so that the damage won’t go any further. However, there are a few patients who are hesitant about going through the procedure. If you have the same feeling, then you’re in luck. Today, we’ll run through the procedure to help set your expectations and even help you feel more at ease. But first, we need to understand its purpose and a few basic facts about it.
What is a dental crown?
It is a tooth-shaped cap placed over a damaged tooth to cover it. You can choose among several types of crowns such as porcelain, ceramic, resin, and steel. The dental crown procedure is advisable for patients that have a large hole in their tooth which exceeds the natural tooth structure.
Aside from treating damaged or cracked teeth, patients can also use it for cosmetic reasons. The dentist can use a dental crown to improve the tooth’s appearance or restore its original shape and size. But how does the process go?
What should I expect from the procedure? First visit – initial assessment
The dentist will need to assess your tooth’s condition carefully. There are times when the remaining natural tooth won’t be enough to support a dental crown procedure. Yet, in some cases, the patient needs to undergo a root canal procedure before they can place the permanent crown.
The second visit – preparing the crown
During your first treatment, your dentist near you will shape the tooth in preparation for the procedure. All crowns have a specific minimum thickness to ensure that they’ll have enough strength to serve their function.
Then, he’ll take an impression of the prepared tooth together with the opposing teeth. The dentist will send the results to the dental lab where they’ll fabricate the tooth. They’ll replicate the size and shape of the patient’s natural tooth to ensure that it’ll blend well. It’ll take at least two weeks for the laboratory to complete the procedure. In the meantime, the dentist will cement a temporary crown during the first treatment.
Third visit- receiving the permanent dental crown
Once the permanent dental crown is ready, the dentist will remove the carefully temporary crown. He’ll also check the permanent crown for the bite, fit, as well as appearance. Once the dentist verifies all measurements, he will cement the crown while removing the excess material off around and between it. The dentist then checks the patient’s bite and performs adjustments if needed.
How should I maintain my dental crown?
One of the best things about the dental crown procedure is that it requires the same maintenance as your natural tooth. However, you may want to avoid sticky foods like caramel sweets as much as possible. Doing so will protect the remaining teeth inside the crown from decay.
Bear in mind that there’s still a natural tooth hidden beneath its interior. That’s why it’s essential to brush and floss around your porcelain teeth as you would with the rest of your teeth. Although your crowns won’t decay, the natural tooth inside it is still vulnerable.
How long does a dental crown last?
Generally, a permanent crown lasts for five to 15 years. However, its longevity depends on its exposure to wear and tear and how well you take care of it. You have to follow good oral hygiene practices to make it last and to prevent it from breaking. Additionally, you should also get yourself aware of other mouth-related habits that may damage it.
Can I put it off?
Most patients who don’t get their broken tooth repaired can make their situation even worse. Patients who put this dental treatment off commonly end up experiencing more dental discomfort as days pass by. So, it’s best to call your dentist and set an appointment to have your broken tooth checked and repaired. Ask if you’re a candidate for a dental crown in Newmarket, Ontario to properly treat your broken tooth.