If a tooth has more extensive decay, a dental crown may be the ideal aesthetic and functional restorative solution
Choosing to have a crown placed can preserve the natural tooth, which is always the goal as preserving the natural teeth helps maintain the supporting bone structure and stability of the surrounding and adjacent teeth.
The first step in the process is to take an impression that will be used to make a model of the teeth and bite. This allows the crown to be made to look and function like your natural tooth. The tooth will then be prepped, with the decayed areas being removed. An impression of the prepped tooth will be made so that the final crown will fit properly when it is placed.
Sometimes the final crown can be placed on the same day but other times a temporary crown will be placed while your final restoration is being created. Crowns often last a lifetime with proper care and oral hygiene.
There are four common types of crowns:
Ceramic
This type of crown is often used for teeth that are visible when smiling as they are made from a porcelain-based material that retains the look of your natural teeth.
Porcelain Fused to Metal
These crowns are known for their strength and durability while also allowing for a natural-looking restoration.
Gold Alloys
These may be used when more strength is needed, particularly for patients who grind their teeth at night.
Base Metal Alloys
These are strong and corrosion-resistant and are often used when there is less existing tooth structure available to support the crown restoration.
Instructions Following Crown, Bridge, Inlay/Onlay:
Following Tooth Preparation:
- Sensitivity and tenderness of the tooth and surrounding gums is common for the first day or two after a tooth has been prepared for a restoration. If the tenderness or sensitivity lasts longer than this, please contact our office.
- If anesthesia is used, avoid chewing, biting, and eating until the numbness wears off.
- The final restoration may be placed the same day that the tooth is prepared or may be placed during a separate appointment.
For Temporary Restorations:
- Eat softer foods, and avoid foods that are particularly crunchy, chewy, or hard.
- Carefully clean around the restoration, brushing and flossing daily. Be gentle when flossing, taking extra care not to loosen the temporary restoration. Slowly pulling the floss out by one end can help avoid putting too much pressure on the temporary.
- If the temporary restoration becomes loose or breaks, please call us immediately.
After Final Restoration Placement:
- Avoid chewing on hard, crunchy, or sticky foods for 24 hours in order to give time for the cement to fully bond.
- Mild sensitivity to hot or cold foods is not unusual and should dissipate after a few weeks. If sensitivity lasts more than six weeks, please let the office know.
Ongoing Care:
- Proper care of your restoration includes brushing your teeth after every meal and snack, and flossing at least once a day before bedtime.
- Rinsing your mouth with water or mouthwash will also help to remove any additional particles that may have been missed during brushing and flossing.
Please call our office if you are in pain or have any questions regarding your treatment.