What Are Dental Crowns?
Crowns are full coverage restorations that are used to cover a tooth that is likely to break, or is too broken down to be restored with a filling. They are most commonly done after root canal treatment, or when a large filling wears out. The larger the hole made by a cavity that has to be treated, the more likely a crown will be needed. Even after a filling is put in a large cavity, a tooth is more likely to break.
Even though the jaw muscles are the strongest in the human body, teeth are subjected to tremendous stress and pressures. Crowns cover the weakened tooth, providing strength and protecting the tooth against breakage. A broken or cracked tooth is a far more serious matter and much more difficult to treat. Crowns prevent this, as well as making for a nice smile.
What To Expect When Getting A Dental Crown
Typically, it takes two appointments to restore a tooth with a crown.
- First Visit: During the initial visit, any decay is removed from the tooth and it is shaped to accept the crown. Then an impression is made of the tooth for use in fabricating a crown.
- Between the two visits the crown is made, usually of high-strength porcelain over gold alloy, all ceramic material, or gold. During this time a temporary crown is worn.
- Second Visit: At the second visit, the temporary crown is removed. Then the permanent crown is adjusted as needed and then cemented in place.
Do you have questions about crowns? Feel free to give our Mesa dental office a call, and we’d be happy to answer any questions or schedule a consult.