How the Dental Crowns Process Works

You may know about dental crowns, but do you know why your dentist uses this procedure? Crowns are common in dentistry. They address some of the more significant issues, including severe cavities, broken or cracked teeth, and discolored or misshapen teeth. Depending on your condition, you may have a few options for treatments. The more you understand about the crown process, the easier it can be to make the right decision.

When to get dental crowns

For minor chips or even smaller cavities, patients can usually wait a few weeks or even longer to address them. However, people who have suffered an accident and had an injury that broke a tooth should call the dentist immediately. Fractures can make it difficult to eat or speak. There is pain with these injuries too. It is not wise to put off an appointment at the dentist’s office in these scenarios. Larger cavities also require more than a filling.

Get the go-ahead from the dentist

Crowns are not always the right answer. The dentist will be open about what is right for the patient. However, if the dentist determines that the patient would benefit from dental crowns, the patient can set up a subsequent appointment for preliminary work. At this first appointment, the dentist will look through the person’s medical history. This is also a good chance for the patient to ask relevant questions and express concerns.

Tooth prep

Making and fitting the patient with a good crown can take a few weeks. Before the person can receive the crown, the dentist will numb the patient and shave down the affected tooth so the cap can fit. The dentist will then take X-rays and send them to a lab. In this facility, a technician will make a customized crown. The dentist will then likely put a temporary crown on the patient.

Put on the dental crowns

When the crowns are ready, the patient will come in for another appointment. The dentist will remove the temporary dental crown and put on the permanent one. Before securing it, the dentist will make sure it fits properly and allows the person to bite down. The dentist will check the color shade and may make some additional adjustments.

Keep coming back

Patients should visit the dental office every six months for cleanings and checkups. These visits are good occasions for the dentist to check the dental crowns and make sure there is no damage. Patients who have a crown should call the dentist anytime the crown breaks or causes pain. The crown should last up to 15 years.

Now you know

If you have a broken or cracked tooth, if you have a severe cavity or if you want whiter teeth when store products or other treatments are not working, a crown could be the right answer. It is helpful to understand the process of getting a crown and how it can be effective. Call your dentist today and discuss your desire to improve your teeth.

Request an appointment here: https://www.dentistofvisalia.com or call Visalia Care Dental at (559) 975-1213 for an appointment in our Visalia office.

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