Dental CrownsVisalia, CA

Issues that caps can address

In the most serious oral health cases, dental crowns are an effective solution. Many patients typically get cavities, which our dentist can repair by cleaning out the affected tooth and sealing it with a composite resin filling. In other cases, you may come to the office with a small chip in a tooth, which some bonding can take care of. However, our dentist may need to take a different approach if the problem is more significant and widespread. Caps can provide protection for a tooth and help it to maintain its proper function.

If you are unsure whether a cap is an effective treatment for your condition, you should speak to our dentist. Our staff has the training and knowledge to provide the answers you need to make the right decision. There are other options available for damaged teeth, so evaluate the benefits of this treatment and discuss your concerns with our dentist.

Get in touch with our office today so you can make an appointment to discuss your needs.

Poor oral health habits, such as lack of attention to brushing and flossing, can lead to tooth decay or infections. If the patient does not get help for these problems, more serious issues can result. This can cause a large cavity or even an abscessed tooth, which is an infection in the pulp. A root canal can clean out the affected area, and the dentist will place a cap over the tooth for protection and keep further decay from occurring. Broken or cracked teeth can also require the use of a cap. Significant cavities can cause these conditions, as can injuries and accidents from hard blows to the face.

Initial appointment

When a patient is suffering from a severe, constant toothache or has a damaged tooth, the person will come into the office for an examination. The dentist will take X-rays to determine whether dental crowns are needed to correct the problem. The X-rays will also reveal any problems with the roots or bone. The dentist will also review the person’s health history to make sure the patient is not allergic to any medication.

Preparing the tooth

The dentist will next determine whether a root canal is needed to clean out extensive decay. This procedure will then take place if necessary. The dentist will numb the patient using a local anesthetic. Once the medication takes effect, the dentist will shave part of the tooth so the cap can fit properly. At this point, the dentist will build up the tooth to prepare it to support the cap. An impression will be made and sent to a laboratory where a technician will make the cap.

Constructing the dental crowns

While the patient waits for the crown, the dentist will put a temporary acrylic crown on the tooth. At the lab, the tech will customize a cap to fit the affected tooth. The tech will also choose a color shade that matches the surrounding natural teeth. Usually within a couple of weeks, the cap is ready, and it will go to the dentist’s office. The dentist will schedule a follow-up appointment to cement the crown to the patient’s tooth.

Crown material

Crowns are durable and resemble natural teeth. They come in different materials such as porcelain, stainless steel and ceramic. The crown will allow the patient to eat most foods. The cap should last at least 10 years, though the dentist will follow up regularly with the patient to make sure it is strong and protecting the tooth.

Receiving the crown

At the next appointment, the patient will return to the office to get the permanent crown. After removing the temporary crown, the dentist will verify that the new one is the correct color and matches the other teeth. Once again, the dentist will numb the patient’s mouth before putting the cap in place. The dentist will give the patient instruction on what to expect from the treatment.

Care and maintenance

Just like natural teeth, it is important for the patient to take good care of the crown. The patient should brush the crown and other teeth at least twice a day. Also, the person must be careful about eating certain foods. Hard foods can crack the crown, and sticky foods could pull it out. It would be helpful for people with crowns who play sports to wear a mouthguard during activity. This would also be a smart practice at night for patients who tend to grind or clench their teeth.

Call if there is a problem

Crowns are an effective treatment for cosmetic and oral health issues. This does not mean caps are indestructible. Patients who notice cracks or chips in the crown, or whose crown becomes loose or falls out, should contact the dentist immediately. The faster the person can get to the dental office, the stronger the likelihood is that the dentist will be able to repair the damage. Drugstores do sell products to temporarily reattach crowns, but the patient should also inform the dentist anytime there is a problem. The dentist may be able to schedule an emergency appointment if necessary.

Follow-up care

The dentist will check on the crown at each semiannual appointment. During these regular visits, the patient should express any concerns or ask any questions about the treatments. The dentist will keep a close eye on the cap and will replace it when it starts to lose its effectiveness or wears out. People who properly care for their crowns and avoid situations that may damage the cap can enjoy it for several years.

Get relief today

Getting a crown may cause you some anxiety and a bit of nervousness. However, this treatment involves little pain and discomfort. It will also deliver results you can feel good about. Not only will you be able to eat without pain, but you can also regain the smile you have been looking for. Make an appointment with our dentist today so you can discuss this procedure.