Dental Crown procedure
Your dentist may encourage you to undergo a dental crown chapel hill nc procedure for various reasons. A crown may be used to cover or cap a tooth that is damaged. The crown can also add strength to a damaged tooth and help improve the appearance, shape or alignment of the tooth as well. In addition, a crown can be placed on top of an implant in order to give it a tooth-like shape and structure.
Both porcelain and ceramic crowns can be easily matched to existing tooth color and are often used for cosmetic cases. Other materials that can be used for crowns include gold or metal alloys, acrylic and ceramic. Alloys are generally stronger compared to porcelain and may be used for the back teeth. Porcelain bonded to a metal shell is commonly used as it is both strong and aesthetically pleasing. Each type of crown has specific pros and cons. These are summarized below:
- Ceramic: Ceramic crowns are often used for restoring the front teeth. They are popular in this area because of their ability to easy match your natural tooth color. The crown is made from a porcelain-based material.
- Porcelain, fused to metal: This type of crown provides a stronger bond compared to traditional porcelain because it is attached to a metal structure. It is also extremely durable.
- Gold alloys: This type of crown is a combination of gold, copper and other metals. In addition to providing a strong bond to the tooth, it is unlikely to fracture. In addition, it does not wear away the tooth itself.
- Base metal alloys: This crown is created from non-noble metals which are highly resistant to corrosion. As a result of this, the crown is incredibly strong. It also requires removing the least amount of healthy tooth prior to fitting.
Be sure to discuss your crown options with your dentist to make the right selection based on your individual situation.
The procedure for installing a dental crown typically requires two separate visits to the dentist. During the first appointment, the dentist will examine the tooth to ensure it healthy enough to support a crown. The dentist will then begin filing it down in order to prepare it for the crown. In the event that the tooth is severely damaged or broken, the dentist may need to fill it in to ensure it is large enough to properly receive and support the crown.
Once the tooth is filed or filled to the desired shape, the dentist will take an impression of the tooth and the surrounding area. The impression will be sent away to a dental lab for the creation of the permanent crown. Following the first visit, the dentist will place a temporary crown which protects the tooth until the final crown is ready for placement.
Once the permanent crown is ready, the second visit will be scheduled. During this appointment, the temporary crown will be removed. Once removed, the dentist will position and secure the new crown to the tooth with a special adhesive.
Once the dental crown procedure is complete, it can take some time to get used to the permanent crown. Eventually, the crown should look, function and feel just like a regular tooth. Be sure to discuss any questions you have about your crown with your dentist.
It is critical to keep your teeth and gums healthy through regular brushing and flossing to ensure the crown lasts as long as possible. It is also important to schedule regular visits to your dentist for checkups and professional cleanings.
More information on Dental Crowns : What are the different types of dental crowns?
High-Quality Dental Care
At Cornerstone Family Dentistry in Chapel Hill, all our services are performed with the patient in mind. We want you to feel comfortable in the dental chair, confident in our work, and most importantly, we want you to fall in love with your smile again. If you would like to schedule an appointment or if you have any questions about cosmetic procedures that we offer, please contact us at (919) 595-1010.