Dental crowns are a restorative dental treatment that can help with cosmetic concerns too. Patients with a chipped tooth or tooth discoloration, as well as patients who just received a dental implant or root canal therapy, may require a crown. With its varying uses, many dental patients are told they need a crown. Dr. Uttma Dham, a dentist in Plantation, FL, describes what to expect from your dental crowns before, during, and after your procedure.
Preparing for your procedure
If your dentist has told you that you need a dental crown, you will have already completed a consultation. Your dentist will also clean your teeth and gums to ensure your tooth is ready for a crown. Whether you are getting a crown for a cracked tooth or a cavity that is too big for a filling, your dentist will need to prepare your tooth. This involves shaving a small amount of enamel from your tooth to make room for the crown that will fit over it like a cap.
The crown itself is made from ceramic or metal alloys. Size, shape, and color are factored into the crown’s construction to ensure a customized fit for your unique mouth. A temporary crown may be provided while your permanent crown is created in a dental laboratory.
Securing to your teeth
After a waiting period that is dependent on the reason for this procedure, your crown will be ready to be secured to your tooth. The dentist will place the crown over the tooth and make final adjustments to ensure the fit is perfect. This placement procedure could occur as a follow-up to surgery, like a dental implant, or after a cosmetic consultation. In any of these circumstances, the final step is to bond the crown into place for a permanent fit.
It is also possible for patients to receive dental crowns with one appointment. In-office CAD CAM and digital scanning allow patients to skip the traditional impression process if they prefer. With this technology, patients can get their dental crowns in the same day.
Caring for your dental crowns
Your dentist will provide you with immediate aftercare guidelines, which can differ depending on the reason for your crown. Generally, it is best to avoid chewing on hard items, such as fingernails, ice, or the end of a pen. Dental crowns are durable but can be subject to breakage under immense pressure. For this reason, it’s important to pay attention to oral habits. Additionally, good oral hygiene should be maintained. This entails brushing twice a day and flossing daily. Regular check-ups and cleanings with your dentist are important to protect your crown along with the rest of your smile.
Dental crowns and more in Plantation, FL
Dental crowns and other restorative dentistry treatments are available at Westside Dental Center in Plantation, FL. Dr. Dham offers general and cosmetic dentistry services as well. To schedule an appointment with us, contact our office online or reach us by phone at 954.251.0640.