What Are Crowns?
If you have a badly decayed tooth, a crown can cover the visible area restoring your beautiful smile. Once we have removed the damaged part of your tooth, we will install the crown securely over the remaining part of the natural tooth which will cover the area above the gum line. Crowns, which are sometimes referred to as caps, are a thin ceramic coating placed on a porcelain or metal base. For teeth at the rear of the mouth, gold is sometimes used as their metal.
What Does the Procedure Involve?
Implanting a crown usually requires two or more appointments. During your first visit with us, our team of dental professionals will perform a comprehensive cleaning and take x-rays. We will check for any deterioration or signs of damage. This is important because crowns require that some of the natural tooth remains intact to be used as an anchor for the crown. We will then remove any decay and take an impression of the area once the area has been numbed. This impression is what we use to create your crown. On your second appointment, the crown will be installed. Once the crown is set, your dentist will ensure that it is properly aligned. Your dentist will then slightly alter the shape of the crown and polish it to ensure it duplicates the bite pattern of the natural tooth.
Are There Risks?
As with any dental or medical procedure, caution is required. Antibiotics may be required before the treatment for some patients with heart issues or susceptibilities. You should contact our office right away if you encounter serious pain after any treatment sessions, if the crown causes discomfort or seems out of place and if the temporary crown falls out. It is not common, but, occasionally over time crowns may become loose or wear down. In these circumstances they will need to be re-cemented or replaced.
