The Application Process of Dental Crowns

A common dental treatment with a wide variety of applications, dental crowns can be placed over a natural tooth or a dental implant or used to hold a dental bridge in place. Dentists recommend them for a variety of reasons.

Why dental crowns are used

Children with frequent cavities may require crowns to prevent further decay from occurring. Also, both children and adults with especially large cavities may need a dental crown if fillings are not possible. A dental crown may be applied to teeth after a root canal or to repair cracks. In some cases, a dental crown can help enhance the appearance of the mouth by covering up noticeable discoloration or misshapen teeth.

How dental crowns are applied

Attaching a dental crown is a common procedure that dentists perform regularly. There are several necessary steps the dentist needs to take to apply the crown to a patient’s teeth.

Tooth preparation

Before it is possible to place dental crowns, the tooth must be first prepared for the application. This process involves shaving down the tooth and addressing any issues ahead of time, which may include performing root canal therapy, bonding the area or adding a filling. Often, local anesthesia is used before any type of preparation is completed. Depending on the situation, the dentist may shave a percentage for front teeth and a percentage for back teeth.

Impression

Next, the dentist will take an impression of the affected tooth and a bite impression. This impression may be either digital or physical. Pictures will also be taken to help with color matching the crown to the existing teeth. All of these materials are sent to a lab where a plaster cast is made that is used to shape the new crown.

Temporary crown

Since the process of having a crown made typically takes around two weeks, the dentist may place a temporary crown on the area. Most often, the dentist can make this temporary crown in the office and place it that day. Patients might notice extra sensitivity to hot and cold while the temporary dental crown is in place. Dentists may also often recommend that patients avoid especially chewy food items, such as gum.

Permanent crown placement

Once the permanent crown is completed, another appointment is made to replace the temporary crown. Some offices have advanced equipment that allows for a permanent crown to be placed the same day as the tooth preparation. After the crown is placed, the dentist can adjust the shape and height of the tooth until the patient is happy with the final result.

Aftercare

Dental crowns often do not require any extra care to address. Good oral hygiene habits are necessary to avoid cavities growing underneath the crown. Porcelain crowns can break, so patients should avoid chewing hard objects and stay aware of the area. It is important for patients to continue seeing a dentist regularly to check on the crown and help keep the area clean.

Getting dental crowns

There are several different types of crowns available. Patients should discuss options with a dentist to find the right choice for their mouth.

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