Considering a dental crown? You’re not alone. Dental crowns are a popular solution for restoring damaged teeth, and the installation process is simpler than you might think. In this article, we’ll walk you through what to expect during the dental crown procedure, from initial consultation to the final placement.
You’ll learn about the types of crowns available, how your dentist prepares your tooth, and the step-by-step process of fitting your new crown. Whether you’re dealing with a broken tooth or severe decay, a crown can bring back your smile’s brilliance. Keep reading to discover how this common dental procedure can improve your oral health and confidence.
Types of Dental Crowns
Understanding the variety of dental crowns available is crucial to making an informed choice about your tooth restoration. Crowns can be made from different materials, each with unique advantages.
Gold Crowns
Gold crowns are known for their durability and longevity. They’re a good choice if you’re looking for a long-lasting solution, especially for molars that aren’t visible.
Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM) Crowns
PFM crowns offer a blend of strength from metal with the aesthetic appeal of porcelain. They fit well and are often used for front or back teeth.
All-Ceramic or All-Porcelain Crowns
These crowns provide the best natural color match compared to any other crown type and are ideal for people with metal allergies. All-ceramic crowns are a top choice for front teeth due to their superior aesthetic qualities.
Stainless Steel Crowns
Used primarily in paediatric dentistry, stainless steel crowns are pre-fabricated and quickly placed on a child’s primary tooth. They’re cost-effective and require less time to fit.
Composite Resin Crowns
Composite resin crowns are more affordable than other types but are more prone to wear and discoloration. They can be a good temporary solution or suitable for teeth that require less durability.
When choosing a crown, you’ll need to consider factors like the tooth’s location, aesthetic concerns, the material’s durability, and your budget. Your dentist will work with you to select the most suitable material for your specific needs, ensuring the restored tooth blends seamlessly with your natural teeth and enhances your smile.
Initial Consultation and Assessment
When you’re considering dental crowns, the first step is to schedule an initial consultation with a qualified dentist. During this visit, your dental history will be reviewed and a thorough examination will be conducted. This includes a check for any signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues that could affect the crown’s placement or longevity.
Your dentist will also take detailed impressions of your mouth. These are used to create a precise model of your teeth, which is crucial for designing a crown that fits perfectly. High-tech methods such as digital scans may also be utilized for greater accuracy.
Additionally, the affected tooth will require a detailed assessment to determine the extent of damage or decay. This influences not only the type of crown chosen but also any preparatory procedures needed before the crown can be placed. If necessary, treatments such as root canal therapy may be recommended to address underlying issues before moving forward with the crown installation.
X-rays are an essential part of the assessment, providing an in-depth view of the tooth’s roots and surrounding bone. This information helps in verifying the overall health of the tooth structure and identifying any potential complications.
Understanding the specifics of your oral structure and dental needs ensures that the chosen crown will be a perfect match for both functionality and aesthetics. Each step of the consultation and assessment is geared towards customizing your dental treatment for the best possible results.
Preparing the Tooth for Crown Installation
Once your initial consultation and assessment are complete, the next step in the dental crown process is preparing the tooth. This involves reshaping the targeted tooth to ensure the crown fits securely and aligns seamlessly with your bite. Here’s what to expect:
Tooth Reshaping
Your dentist will carefully remove a portion of the tooth enamel. This makes room for the dental crown to fit without altering the original size and shape of your tooth. The amount removed typically matches the thickness of the crown to ensure a snug fit.
Core Build-Up
If there’s significant decay or damage to the tooth, a core build-up might be necessary. This involves adding a dental composite material to the remaining tooth structure, which provides a solid foundation for the crown.
Temporary Crown Placement
After the tooth is reshaped, a temporary crown is placed to protect the tooth while the permanent crown is being made. The temporary crown is made using the impressions taken during your initial visit.
Ensuring Comfort and Fit
Your bite will be checked to ensure that the temporary crown does not affect your chewing or bite alignment. Adjustments are made as needed to guarantee comfort and functionality until your next appointment.
What to Expect After Preparation
Sensitivity in the treated area is common after the tooth has been prepared. Your dentist will advise you on how to care for your temporary crown, such as avoiding sticky or hard foods and maintaining good oral hygiene.
By following the steps above, your dentist ensures that the tooth is optimally prepared for the final placement of your dental crown. With precise adjustments and detailed care, the groundwork for a successful dental crown installation is laid.
Temporary Crown Placement
After your tooth is suitably reshaped for a dental crown, the next step is the placement of a temporary crown. This temporary fixture serves a crucial role in protecting your tooth until the final crown is ready.
Protecting the Prepared Tooth
- Prevents contamination from bacteria
- Shields the tooth from hot and cold temperatures, reducing sensitivity
- Maintains the space within the dental arch to avoid shifting of adjacent teeth
Fabrication and Fitting
Your dentist will construct your temporary crown using acrylic-based material or composite, designed to mimic your tooth. The fitting process is generally quick, as the temporary crown needs to last only until your permanent crown is fabricated, which typically takes a few weeks.
Care and Maintenance
Caring for your temporary crown is essential. Avoid sticky and hard foods that could dislodge it. Your dentist will also recommend you to:
- Brush gently around the crowned tooth
- Floss with caution, using a pulling motion rather than pushing up into the gum line
Monitoring for Issues
While wearing the temporary crown, pay attention to any changes in bite or if the crown feels loose. Immediate contact with your dentist is crucial to prevent further dental issues. Regular check-ins and following your dentist’s advice will ensure the temporary crown functions effectively until your next appointment for the final placement.
Final Crown Placement
Once your dentist ensures the temporary crown has successfully protected your tooth, the process moves to the Final Crown Placement. This is a critical step where precision matters to ensure your new crown fits perfectly.
Preparing for the Permanent Crown
Prior to your appointment, the dental laboratory completes the crafting of your customised crown. The material choice, often porcelain or ceramic for front teeth and metal alloys for back teeth, affects durability and aesthetics.
Fitting the Permanent Crown
Your dentist will carefully remove the temporary crown and cleanse the tooth of any adhesive materials. Precise fitting of the permanent crown is crucial to avoid any impact on your bite or jaw alignment. Adjustments are made until the fit is exact. Once satisfied, your dentist uses a strong dental cement to secure the crown in place.
Post-Placement Care
Immediate aftercare involves managing sensitivity and practising good oral hygiene. You’ll be instructed on how to:
- Avoid chewing hard foods directly on the new crown for a short period
- Maintain oral hygiene with regular brushing and flossing
- Monitor the crown for fit and comfort
Remember, the success of your dental crown extends beyond the dentist’s chair. Your ongoing care and adherence to dental advice are imperative. Regular checkups ensure the health and durability of your new crown, aligning with your overall oral health goals.
Regular dental checkups and proper maintenance will keep your crown and oral health in prime condition for years to come.
Conclusion
You’ve now walked through the critical stages of dental crown installation, from the initial reshaping to the placement of a temporary crown and the final fitting of the permanent fixture. Remember, your diligence in caring for your temporary crown will pave the way for a successful installation. Once your permanent crown is in place, continue to prioritise oral hygiene and regular dental checkups to maintain the integrity of your new crown and overall dental health. With the right care, your dental crown will serve you well, enhancing both the function and appearance of your smile.