Over time, our teeth weaken and become more susceptible to problems such as decay, cracks, discoloration, and others. If your smile isn’t what it once was, crowns can help restore it. Additionally, if your dentist notices that a tooth is decayed or seems weakened or cracked, a crown may be necessary to ensure no additional problems with the tooth.
In cases like this, a filling or bonding will not be sufficient. Dental crown treatment can restore a tooth and add a protective structure to prevent further wear and damage.
Traditional Crown Treatment
Installing a crown takes 2-3 visits to the dentist. On the first visit, the tooth will be reshaped by filing down the enamel so that the crown can be placed over it. You will be given a local anesthetic before this part of the procedure so that you do not experience any discomfort.
Once the tooth has been reshaped, a mold will be taken of that tooth and the surrounding teeth. This mold will be sent to a dental lab so that your new crown can fit in the spot created for it and look the same relative to the surrounding teeth. Before leaving, your dentist will fit you with a temporary crown until your permanent crown is ready.
The crown takes 2-3 weeks to be returned to your dentist. You will have another appointment to place and fit the permanent crown at this time. You will again have a local anesthetic to numb the area, and the tooth will be placed using cement to ensure the tooth sets in place.
Caring for Dental Crowns
After treatment, you will see your old smile back when you look in the mirror. Crowns are durable and will usually last about 10-15 years. You should care for it as you would any of your other teeth with regular brushing and flossing. Call us today if you would like to learn more about how crowns can help restore your smile.
Crowns can be made from porcelain, porcelain fused to metal, or a full gold crown. To maintain a natural look and feel, a porcelain finished crown is best, as it can match the shade of your other teeth. This will allow it to blend in and appear like one of your natural teeth.
Request a Dental Appointment
Call Broadway Dental for treatment today at 409-235-0789. You can also schedule a dental consultation with our team online.