Modern dentists use dental crowns to fix everything from discoloration to structural instability, which is why you might be faced with getting one. Although it can seem intimidating to have a foreign cap cemented in place of your natural tooth, the process has been perfected over the years, and you have nothing to worry about. Here is some information about what happens before, during, and after the procedure. 

Understanding Dental Crown Placement

Before

Before your dental crown can be cemented in place, your dentist will carefully evaluate the health of your tooth. Crowns aren’t right for teeth that have a damaged root, so your dentist may order X-rays to check the underlying health of the area. If your tooth is healthy enough for a dental crown, your dentist will take impressions of the original tooth and numb the area carefully so you’re comfortable during the procedure. 

During

To make room for a crown, your dentist will begin by removing a small amount of dental enamel from the surface of your tooth. The amount your dentist will file away will depend on the kind of crown being ordered and the condition of your tooth. After the area is prepared, another impression will be made to send to the dental lab for crown fabrication. This impression is used with the original impression to create a crown that will look realistic and function well when placed in your dental arch. 

Because crowns can take a few weeks for professional dental labs to manufacture, your dentist will place a temporary crown over the tooth before you leave. When the final crown is finished, you will be asked to come back in to have your temporary crown removed and your permanent version cemented in place. 

After

While very little special care is required after permanent dental crown placement, patients should avoid chewy or sticky foods when they have a temporary crown. Additionally, since both temporary and permanent crowns can be damaged, always report chips, cracks, or fractures to your dentist.

If you have damaged, discolored, or decayed teeth that may need a crown, make an appointment with a trusted dentist. Tohill Dentistry in Somerset, KY, is a father-son dental team; this dynamic dental practice makes every patient feel right at home while offering a superior standard of care. To book your next checkup, visit them online or call (606) 679-4450.