Supplying patients with a single crown is the most common restorative procedure done each year. A crown is a cap used to cover a damaged tooth allowing the tooth to be stable for years. According to the American College of Prosthodontists, over two million implant-supported crowns are made annually.
A crown can also be used for cosmetic procedures to restore a tooth to a typical shape and size improving its appearance. Most dentists are skilled in taking a mold to use for creation of the crown, preparing the patient's tooth, providing a temporary cap, and then in a second appointment installing the permanent crown.
Reasons for a Crown
Cavity
Cavities can be the reason a crown becomes an essential treatment. When a cavity takes up much of a tooth, it is weakened and can break. Older large fillings may need to be replaced by a crown when the remaining tooth has issues.
Root Canal
When a root canal is required, your tooth is hollowed out leaving just the shell of your tooth. Dental crowns are used to cover and strengthen the tooth to prevent future issues.
Worn Teeth
Wear and tear on your teeth may lead to the need for a crown. This can be due to grinding teeth or from acid reflux causing erosion of the tooth enamel. A crown restores the affected tooth or teeth preventing further damage.
Appearance
A smile is very important to a person’s confidence. Crowns on teeth that are discolored, misshapen or have gaps can drastically improve the appearance or your teeth. Dental crowns are a minimally invasive way to improve the look of your teeth giving you more confidence when you smile.
Prevention
Dental crowns are used as a preventative measure for teeth that your dentist may find are weak and at risk for damage. When used as a preventative, the crown can correct issues before a more invasive treatment is needed like a root canal.
Dental Crown Treatment
Dental crown treatment is minimally invasive and can be completed in two appointments with your dentist. After giving you a local anesthetic, the dentist will make sure your tooth is ready for an impression. Sometimes a filling can be necessary to shore up a tooth. Once the tooth is determined ready, an impression will be made of your tooth to be used in creating the permanent crown. Also your original tooth will be compared to a shade guide to make sure the crown is as close as possible to your natural tooth in color.
The next step is your dentist shaving down the tooth in order for it to be fitted for a crown. A temporary crown is placed on the tooth which allows you to speak and eat normally until you return for an appointment to receive the permanent crown. A few weeks later, you will return for a very short appointment where the permanent crown is cemented or dental glued to your existing tooth.
Dental crowns become a part of your natural teeth and should be cared for in the same way by brushing and flossing regularly. Keeping a scheduled six month check up at the dentist is the best way to make sure you are maintaining excellent oral health. The hygienist cleans your teeth thoroughly and then your dentist inspects your teeth making sure you do not have the beginnings of any issues like decay, cavities or gum disease.
