How do Dentists Do a Crown?
Dental crowns are a common and effective solution for restoring damaged or decayed teeth. If you’ve ever wondered how dentists go about placing a dental crown, here’s a detailed explanation of the process.
The first step in the dental crown procedure is to assess the tooth’s condition. The dentist will examine the tooth, take X-rays, and discuss the treatment options with you. If a dental crown is deemed necessary, the following steps are typically involved:
1. Preparation: The dentist will anesthetize the tooth and surrounding area to ensure your comfort during the procedure. Then, they will remove any decay or damaged tooth structure using dental instruments. The tooth is then shaped to accommodate the crown, which may involve reducing its size slightly.
2. Impression: An impression of the prepared tooth and the adjacent teeth is taken. This impression is used to create a model of your mouth, which is then sent to a dental laboratory. The laboratory technicians will use this model to fabricate a custom dental crown that fits your tooth perfectly.
3. Temporary Crown: While you wait for the permanent crown to be made, the dentist will place a temporary crown over the prepared tooth. This temporary crown protects the tooth and ensures that you can chew and speak normally until the permanent crown is ready.
4. Crown Delivery: Once the permanent crown is ready, the dentist will remove the temporary crown and check the fit of the new crown. If the fit is satisfactory, the dentist will clean the tooth and cement the permanent crown in place using dental cement.
5. Final Adjustments: After the crown is cemented, the dentist will make any necessary adjustments to ensure that the bite is correct and that the crown feels comfortable. They may also make slight adjustments to the crown’s color and shape to match your natural teeth.
The entire dental crown procedure usually takes two visits to the dentist. The first visit involves preparing the tooth and taking an impression, while the second visit is for the placement of the permanent crown.
It’s important to maintain good oral hygiene and care for your dental crown to ensure its longevity. Brush and floss regularly, avoid biting on hard objects, and attend regular dental check-ups to monitor the condition of your crown and your overall oral health.
In conclusion, the process of placing a dental crown involves preparing the tooth, taking an impression, and fitting a custom-made crown to restore the tooth’s function and appearance. With proper care, a dental crown can last for many years, providing a durable and effective solution for damaged teeth.
