A dental crown is like a protective helmet for your teeth. It’s a tooth-shaped cap that covers a damaged, decayed, or weak tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Think of it as a shield that helps your tooth function properly and looks great, too.
Crowns are one of the most versatile and effective restorative dental treatments to repair and strengthen damaged teeth. A restorative dentist in Bethlehem, Dr. Ren can place a dental crown to restore your smile and to address cosmetic concerns. A relatively simple procedure, the dental crown process typically takes a couple of visits.
What to Expect During the Dental Crown Procedure
The process of getting a dental crown involves several steps:
- Evaluation and Preparation: Dr. Ren will examine the tooth to see if it needs a crown. The dentist will then file down and remove part of the outer layer of the tooth to make room for the crown. A temporary crown made of acrylic will be placed over the prepared tooth to protect it while the permanent crown is being made.
- Impressions and Fabrication: We will use a paste or putty to take an impression of your tooth. Sometimes, digital scanners are used for this step. The impressions are sent to a dental lab where the crown will be manufactured, which usually takes two to three weeks.
- Fitting and Cementing the Permanent Crown: At your second visit, the temporary crown is removed, and the permanent crown is checked for fit and color. If everything looks good, the new crown is permanently cemented in place using local anesthesia to numb the tooth.
Reasons for Needing a Dental Crown
You might need a dental crown for several reasons, such as:
- Decay or Cavities: If you have a large cavity that can’t be filled with a regular filling.
- Broken or Weakened Teeth: If your tooth is broken, cracked, or weakened due to wear and tear or grinding.
- Post-Root Canal: After a root canal, a crown is often necessary to protect the tooth.
- Dental Implants: Crowns can cover dental implants to restore chewing function and appearance.
Types of Dental Crowns
There are several types of dental crowns available, each with its own benefits:
Crown (Ceramic)
We make our crowns in-house with our CEREC milling machine. This means we have total control over the fit, color, and aesthetics.
3-unit bridge
A 3-unit bridge is like having 3 crowns in a row, all connected. It is used to replace the missing tooth in the middle when a patient does not want or is not a candidate for an implant. Sometimes, a bridge is actually a better option when patients have a gummy smile or a thin jaw bone.
¾ Crown or Veneer
A 3/4 crown or veneer can be used to change the shape, size, and color of a tooth. It is less invasive than a crown. Patients with lots of old fillings or high decay rate are not usually a candidate for veneers, but may benefit from full coverage crowns instead.
Maryland Bridge
When a patient is missing a small tooth (like a lateral incisor), sometimes we can bond a crown onto the back of the tooth next to it. This is a minimally invasive way to replace a missing tooth. Not everyone is a candidate for a Maryland bridge.
Core Build Up
When a tooth is extra broken down, it needs a little help holding a crown. A core build up is a filling placed underneath the crown that helps hold the crown in place.
Dental Crown FAQs
How long does a dental crown take?
The procedure is pretty quick and painless, but usually split between two appointments. On the first appointment, we’ll prepare your tooth for the crown, take an impression, and send you home with a temporary. Next visit, you’ll return and we’ll permanently cement your brand new crown!
Does It Hurt to Place A Crown?
No, we’ll numb you and make sure you’re nice and comfortable. A crown feels just like getting a filling. Every once in a while, a tooth can become sensitive after a crown preparation and might need a root canal later.
Will A Dental Crown Last Forever?
A tooth can still get a cavity underneath it if you don’t use proper hygiene. Patients with dry mouths (oftentimes related to medication) or a high sugar diet are more prone to tooth decay. Make sure to follow up with us for regular check-ups and cleanings to improve the lifespan of all of your dental work.
Schedule An Appointment at Dice Dental
If you need a dental crown or have concerns about your oral health, schedule a visit with us at our Bethlehem dentist office. We welcome new patients and offer a personalized approach to your dental care.