Why is a Dental Crown Placed?
Many patients receive dental crowns at Lake of the Pines Dental to transform a tooth’s appearance and health. Some patients have a broken tooth restored with a dental crown to create a more uniform appearance to their smile. Patients with a severely decayed or infected tooth can receive a dental crown after the decayed or infected portion is removed. Overall dental crowns are an excellent restoration option for many patients.
How are Dental Crowns Placed?
We can typically place dental crowns in a few dental appointments. The first step to establishing a dental crown is a consultation appointment. Dr. Harris will discuss your dental goals with you and examine your teeth. Then, Dr. Harris and his team of experts will take an impression of your tooth. This impression is then sent to a lab where they will design the dental crown to fit over your existing tooth. In the meantime, Dr. Harris will remove decay or infected portions of the tooth. Dr. Harris can use sedation medication to make it comfortable for you if you desire.
Once your dental crown arrives at the dental office, your dentist will prepare your tooth for placement of the crown:
- He will shave down the outside of the tooth, called the enamel. This will roughen the outer portion of the tooth so the crown fits on the tooth better.
- Dr. Harris will place a bonding material on your tooth and slide the dental crown over the tooth. He will harden the bonding material with a blue light.
- You will leave the dental office that day with a new tooth.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
Dental crowns can last up to 15 years, depending on the crown’s care and placement. You should follow a good oral health routine to care for a dental crown. Patients should brush, floss, and use mouthwash twice a day. Even though your dental crown is a prosthetic, you should still brush and floss around it to avoid bacteria build-up on the tooth or gums. Additionally, patients should visit Lake of the Pines Dental every six months for a dental cleaning and exam. During this exam, Dr. Harris will inspect the health of your dental crown and suggest restorations as needed.
Can Dental Crowns be Used for Cosmetic Reasons?
Yes, we use dental crowns for both restorative and cosmetic reasons. Patients who have a tooth that is discolored, misshapen, or misaligned can benefit from a dental crown. Dental crowns can also be placed on dental implants for cosmetic or restorative reasons. A dental implant replaces the entire tooth from its root to the chewing surface.
What is a Temporary Crown?
Sometimes Dr. Harris will give patients a temporary crown to wear between their initial consultation and their permanent crown. However, you should follow a few steps when wearing a temporary crown. The height is not as durable as your permanent crown, so you should avoid eating hard, sticky, and chewy foods with a temporary crown. Additionally, try to eat on the other side of your mouth. These steps will help protect your temporary crown until the permanent crown can be placed.
Dental crowns can transform the appearance of your smile. They can restore broken, decayed, or infected teeth. Many patients in Auburn, California, have benefited from dental crowns. For more information about dental crowns or to schedule an appointment, call our office.
