What is a dental crown?
A dental crown is a cap that your dentist places over your tooth to create much-needed stability and structure or cover up any imperfections. Dr. Mital Patel may recommend a dental crown if you:
- Have severely discolored tooth
- Have a weak tooth caused by decay or injury
- Need to protect a damaged tooth
- Want to cover a tooth with a large filling
- Need to hold a dental bridge in place
- Have to cover a dental implant
- Want to create a more uniform smile
- Need to hold together a cracked tooth
Once cemented into place, this cap will cover your entire tooth to the gum line, so it won’t look any different than your natural teeth. While there are several different types of dental crowns to choose from, Dr. Patel recommends porcelain crowns for a natural finish that adds strength to your tooth. A porcelain crown is also recommended for patients suffering from metal allergies.
What can I expect from the dental crown process?
Preparing your teeth for a dental crown typically takes two appointments. During your first visit, Dr. Patel will take digital X-rays of your teeth, tooth roots, and surrounding bone and tissue, using a high-quality intraoral camera, to make sure you are a good candidate for a dental crown.
Next, Dr. Patel will file down your tooth to prepare it for the crown. After your tooth is the proper shape to support the cap, Dr. Patel and his team will take impressions of your teeth to send off to the lab, which creates the perfect crown to fit your tooth. Toward the end of the first visit, Dr. Patel will fit you for a temporary crown until your permanent crown is fabricated.
At your second visit, the temporary crown is removed and Dr. Patel will use a local anesthetic to fit you for your permanent crown with a special adhesive. Once he determines the fit, shape, and color are right, you should have a crown that looks and feels like your natural teeth.
How can I care for my dental crown?
While you may have some mild sensitivity following your second appointment, any discomfort you experience should disappear shortly. After you leave Chandler Dental Arts, it’s important to continue taking care of your teeth by:
- Brushing with a fluoride toothpaste twice a day
- Flossing regularly
- Visiting your dentist regularly for professional cleanings
- Avoid chewing hard foods and candies that may cause chipping or discomfort
For more information on the dental crown process, call Chandler Dental Arts or book an appointment online today.
