Over time, our teeth begin to weaken and become more susceptible to problems such as decay, cracks or discoloration. Crowns are used to renew the appearance and function of a tooth. Crowns are not limited to just replacing the original tooth, but can be designed to create an even better aesthetic appearance.
Other reasons for needing a dental crown include:
• To protect a weak tooth from breaking or to hold together parts of a cracked tooth.
• To cover and support a tooth with a large filling when there isn’t a lot of tooth left.
• To cover severely discolored teeth.
• To restore an already broken tooth or a tooth that has been severely worn down.
Crowns are typically made from porcelain in order to maintain strength and a natural appearance. The process of placing a crown may take 2 office visits.
The procedure of receiving a crown is as follows:
First Visit
Your dentist will prepare the tooth for the crown and take an impression which will be sent to the lab. Our team collaborates with the most skilled dental technicians to create well fitting and aesthetically pleasing results. A temporary crown is then placed to cover and protect the prepared tooth while the crown is being made.
Second Visit
Once your permanent crown arrives, it is checked and adjusted for the perfect fit and bite. Often an x-ray is taken to ensure that the crown is properly seated and the margins are well sealed. Upon meeting our high standards, it is permanently cemented.
After treatment is complete, continue to practice proper at home care and keep regular office visits to help your crown last many years. Much like your original teeth, crowns require routine brushing and flossing.
Contact James L. Rutledge DDS for a consultation to see if crowns are right for your smile.