Dental Crown & Crowning Teeth

First Appointment:

1. The dentist will prepare the tooth by removing a small amount of enamel.
2. The dentist will take impressions of the tooth. Impressions are molds of the teeth that are used to create the crown. The dentist will use a soft putty-like material to take the impressions. The patient will bite down on the putty to create an impression of the teeth. The dentist will then pour a plaster-like material into the impressions to create a model of the teeth. The model will be sent to a dental lab, where the crown will be created.
3. The dentist will place a temporary crown over the tooth to protect it until the permanent crown is created. The temporary crown is made of a soft material that will not damage the tooth.

Second Appointment:

1. When the crown is ready, the dentist will remove the temporary crown.
2. The dentist will cement the permanent crown in place. This is a simple procedure that is done in the dentist’s office. The dentist will use a special cement to attach the crown to the tooth. The procedure is usually painless and takes about 30 minutes.

Benefits of Having Dental Crowns

There are many benefits to having dental crowns. Some of the most common benefits include:

• Improved appearance: Crowns can be used to improve the appearance of a tooth by covering up chips, cracks, or discoloration. They can also be used to change the shape or size of a tooth.
• Strength and durability: Crowns are very strong and durable, and they can help to protect a tooth from further damage. This is especially important for teeth that have been weakened by decay or a root canal.
• Comfort: Crowns can help to reduce sensitivity and pain in teeth that are damaged or decayed. This is because crowns act as a barrier between the tooth and the outside environment.
• Long-lasting: Crowns can last for many years with proper care. This makes them a good investment for people who want to improve the appearance and function of their teeth.

What are the possible problems that can develop with a dental crown?

Here are some of the most common problems that can develop with a dental crown:

• Discomfort or sensitivity: Your newly crowned tooth may be sensitive immediately after the procedure as the anesthesia begins to wear off. This sensitivity should go away within a few days. However, if the sensitivity persists, you should see your dentist.
• Chipped crown: Crowns can chip if they are hit or if you chew on something hard. If your crown chips, you should see your dentist as soon as possible.
• Loose crown: A loose crown can be a sign of a problem with the fit of the crown or with the underlying tooth. If your crown is loose, you should see your dentist as soon as possible.
• Crown falls off: A crown can fall off if it is not properly cemented or if the underlying tooth has decayed. If your crown falls off, you should see your dentist as soon as possible.
• Allergic reaction: A very small number of people can have an allergic reaction to the materials used to make crowns. If you experience any allergic reaction symptoms, such as swelling, itching, or hives, you should see your dentist immediately.
• Dark line on crowned tooth next to the gum line: A dark line can sometimes appear on a crowned tooth next to the gum line. This is usually caused by a buildup of plaque or tartar. If you notice a dark line, you should see your dentist for a cleaning and checkup.

If you experience any problems with your dental crown, contact the dentist, he/she can fix most problems with crowns and make sure that your teeth and gums are healthy.