Dental Crowns (Caps)
A dental crown encloses the entire surface of a tooth, giving it back its original size, shape and function. Also referred to as a cap, a dental crown is used to protect a tooth that cannot be helped by other restorations, such as fillings.
Many different materials can be used for dental crowns, but porcelain dental crowns are by far the most popular, as their color resembles that of natural teeth. Like most restorations, these types of crowns are very durable over the years, but they will need replaced after a while. Porcelain dental crowns help restore your smile by bringing back the original shape, color and size of your tooth.
Reasons for dental crowns:
- Broken or fractured teeth
- Cosmetic enhancement
- Decayed teeth
- Fractured fillings
- Large fillings
- Root canals
What does getting a dental crown involve?
Crowns typically require two appointments, with the first appointment being used to take molds/impressions to create a custom crown for your tooth. We will also create a temporary mold at that time, and this mold will stay on your tooth until the dental crown has been made by the dental laboratory. Normally, this is a two-week time lapse.
Your dentist will prepare your tooth for the crown by first numbing it and then removing decay so the dental crown can fit properly. After this prep work is done, the temporary crown will be attached using a temporary cement. At this time, we will also check to make sure you still have a comfortable bite with the temporary crown.
The temporary dental crown will be removed at your second appointment. The tooth will be cleaned again, and the dentist will place the new dental crown, making sure that your bite and the spacing are accurate.
Instructions will be provided on how to care for your new dental crown, and regular dental visits will help ensure that it stays in good shape.
Learn more about dental crowns - Contact your Salem dentists at Oak Park Family Dental.
